Friday, the 12th of December 2025, was the day that Hannah and Josh tied the knot. A winter wedding celebration in Newport, Pembrokeshire, that was full of wintery love.

So about a week before, I was at a wedding vendor party in Cardiff and it came up in conversation that many photographers and videographers don’t work in the winter, out of choice, and I was baffled by this. Christmas and late winter weddings are just fabulous. I mean, there is a greater chance of shitty weather in the winter, but when the weather gives in winter, it really delivers the goods. That soft winter light makes every image a dream.

So, as a local born in Pembrokeshire wedding photographer, I would like to offer my knowledge on the area and Pembrokeshire weddings in winter, and why you should be considering it.

What is a winter wedding like in Pembrokeshire?

Well, for me it’s the perfect mix of cosy and wind, but it’s not for everyone. If you’re the type of person who loves a winter walk in sideways rain and a Guinness by the fire, then you’re probably a winter wedding in Pembrokeshire kinda person.

There are so many benefits of having a wedding in the winter. Firstly, this time of year is generally less busy, so you have empty beaches, quieter locations and a slower pace. You don’t need to worry about getting stuck behind a tractor while driving from one location to the next. Pembs also feels more intimate as you’re not sharing it with all the tourists. This is exactly what Hannah and Josh wanted, something intimate, with a sprinkle of festivity and a season of occasion.

Is Pembrokeshire a good place for a winter wedding?

For sure. You have a choice of wedding venues that offer celebrations no matter the size, coastal and market villages, and winter out of season pricing. And empty dramatic coastlines are not only quiet but also way more impressive in the winter.

For this wedding, Hannah and Josh celebrated at Llys Meddyg, Newport, one of the most beautiful, soulful venues in Pembrokeshire. It was packed with festive feeling and just so snug. The wedding occupied every room, bar and lounge and it just felt so intimate and lovely.

What is the light like for winter wedding photography?

I love winter light, when the sun never actually goes up. The softer tones create the perfect lighting, especially for my style of photography. Then when the sun has gone down it’s time for flash. I use an off camera flash, I have the flash in my hand and point it at the subjects. This creates a fun feel and also a more elevated style of documentary photography, something that Hannah and Josh were looking for.

Does the weather affect winter weddings in West Wales?

For sure. Hannah and Josh were so lucky, they had fab weather, blue skies most of the day, the perfect December day. But I have photographed many wet weddings and the key is variety and planning for the worst.

For this wedding every plan had a back up plan. For example, group photos would be in the church if it rained, couple photos would be in the pub, which we did anyway. The cars were ready to drive them if needed.

Why do winter weddings photograph beautifully in Pembrokeshire?

The Pembrokeshire coast in winter feels like you’ve stepped inside a novel. The colours, textures, movement, fewer crowds and space to breathe. Newport is usually a busy town, but in winter it becomes so much more immersive.

Is a winter wedding more relaxed than summer?

Yes, for sure. Firstly, there is a slower pace, fewer expectations, less pressure on timelines and somehow couples often feel more present on the day.

What should couples consider when planning a winter wedding here?

I would consider the time of day you are getting married. I would advise 12 or 1pm, but you do whatever you want. Hannah and Josh went for a 2.45pm church wedding. I explained that if it were a dark day, the images would be a bit grainy as I try not to use a flash in a church. But we were lucky, and the light was perfect. St Mary’s, Newport, is a lovely church with space and character. Hannah and Josh wanted a sense of occasion and they got it.

Other than making time for good light, make sure you’re warm, especially brides and bridesmaids in dresses. If you’re uncomfortable, then the photos will show it.

Final thoughts on a Pembrokeshire winter wedding?

Just get married whenever you want and if that’s January then so be it. Weddings are about emotion and joy and winter has so much emotion in it.

Aside from the feeling and the intimate cosiness of the day, there are other more practical reasons.

• better prices on venues and hotels
• quieter beaches and pubs
• family and friends are more available to come, fewer other weddings
• more connection with the local area and people
• supporting the community outside of its busy season
• suppliers are easier to book
• travel can be easier to manage
• your wedding will be different to everyone else
• You don’t have to plan for years and could be married by this time next year!!!

Winter weddings in Pembrokeshire have a quiet kind of magic to them. If you’re planning one and want photography that embraces the season rather than fighting it, I’d love to hear about your day.

contact here or email on christina@ymor.uk

Vendors who made it happen > Llys Meddeg Y Mor Photography Madison Reinhardt Makeup

Nia Frances Hair Edwina O’gorman Sugar Coat Banksia Flowers