Winter weddings all too easily fall into kitschy themes…and fast. Many feel that using some snowflakes and icicles are the combination for a winter wonderland, but your guests won’t be surprised, and you’ll end up feeling that you’ve fallen short of spectacular. Using The Knot’s list of 10 Winter Wedding Ideas, here’s a sure-fire way to make sure your wedding doesn’t fall through the ice.

1. Your Colors

All too often, the use of red and green (if your wedding falls close to Christmas), or red and white happens over and over again. For a winter wedding, think simplistically. Silver, blue, and white can create a feel of walking into a snow=covered paradise. Use crystals to add sparkle and the glistening snow effect. The Knot suggests using a white velvet runner for your ceremony, and using dangling strands of white orchids.

2. The Flowers

Red roses? Too easy. What about trying some hydrangeas? White flowers can add pop against a black tux for a boutonniere, tied simply with a white ribbon. IF you’re dead set on using roses or calla lilies, do it! However, don’t feel as though you are stuck in a narrow group of these classic flowers, just because it’s winter.

3. Invitations

If you’re wondering whether or not your winter wedding calls for more formal invitations or not, this is the time to go for it. Winter weddings are the perfect time to go for the grandiose ballroom reception. Heavy cardstock in black, navy, or chocolate brown, with white or silver accents will be the precursor for your black tie event.

4. Centerpieces

Though warm candles are a tried and true staple for wedding centerpieces, The Knot suggests that there are more exciting options to choose from. Picture white branches in a crystal (or an ice-carved) vase towering over your tables, creating an enchanted forest feel. Using crystal creates the illusion of snow, and votives in frosted glass will create a warmth.

5. Escort Cards

The standard here would be to stamp your escort cards with a bit of holly or snowflakes, but let’s think out of the box a little bit here. The Knot puts a twist on the popular escort card tree. How about hanging your silver-calligraphed cards from a crystal candelabra centerpiece? This will leave guests awe-struck and excited for the rest of the evening.

6. The Music

This option really only comes into play if you’re deciding to go with live music instead of a DJ. Instead of a classic pianist during dinner, try an acappella quartet, or a cellist.

7. Cocktail Hour

For a winter wedding, hot chocolate and apple cider are perfectly suitable, and will surely warm up guests. But why not go the extra mile here? The Knot suggests white hot chocolate in espresso cups, and egg nog served punch bowl style for your guests. As most know, I’m a huge fan of the signature drink, and the winter is as perfect a time as any to create something of your own. Think about peppermint, cranberry or apple. A red drink will pop against a white and silver backdrop. Sugar rimmed glasses also add a touch of fun!

8. The Cake

A classic winter cake is often topped with red roses and lined with red or green ribbon, but again, this is classic. What about a white, vintage-inspired cake dusted with silver powder to add shimmer? Add some crystals to the cake to keep up with the motif, and you’ll have a winter inspired cake that isn’t what you see everywhere.

9. The Favors

Food favors are always a win. You know your guests will use it, and it won’t get thrown away or in their junk drawer. Instead of truffles or cookies, try chocolate covered cranberries or roasted chestnuts.

10. The Honeymoon

Most people will want to get away from cold weather and into a tropical location for their honeymoon, but don’t disregard some snowy escapes. Think about Aspen or a cabin at Lake Placid!

To see The Knot’s list, with their full commentary, click here!