Winter Wedding Trends That Are Going to Be Everywhere This Season

Winter is coming! And this year, the cooler temps are bringing even cooler trends to the wedding scene. We got the skinny on all the pretty things from Rachel Sylvester, Real Weddings Editor at The Knot. She's predicting moody floral gowns, drip cakes, and more! Scroll through for a sneak peek of the upcoming looks we L-O-V-E.
Drip Cakes: The newest cake craze follows closely on the heels of the naked cake trend. "Drip cakes feature a drizzle of decadent icing that makes for a whimsical cake that looks as good as it tastes," Sylvester tells Brit + Co. The sweetest part is that this icing trend works with single-tier cakes, towering stacked confections, and cupcakes alike. (via CLY by Matthew)
One Groom, Two Looks: That second look is no longer reserved for just brides. "Grooms are opting for a bow tie swap or jacket change for their own unique reception style.," says Sylvester. And guys are taking their beauty routines seriously too, with a morning-of shave with their dudes. (via 5ive15ifteen Photo Company)
Leather Jackets: Now brides can keep warm with a stylish cover-up that’s uniquely their own. When wearing this look, "Slip into matching leather jackets alongside the rest of your wedding crew, or don custom 'Just Married' jackets with your spouse à la Kim and Kanye," she says. (via Monique Lhuillier)
Velvet: Velvet is still hot for winter thanks to its chic texture and wide range of hues. "Opt for cool colors like forest green, blush, navy, or burgundy, and incorporate the luxe fabric into your invites, ring box, bouquet wrap, and linens," Sylvester recommends. (via Flora + Fauna)
Faux Fur Accents: "Warm up your rustic or woodland-inspired celebration with faux fur accents," says Sylvester. You can make this winter-appropriate trend work by using blankets as favors, or by draping dining chairs with it. (via Dan Thorson Photography)

Frozen Flowers: Put your floral arrangements on ice with frozen decor. "Master the trend for your own nuptials by incorporating a showstopping ice sculpture into your reception, or keep Champagne cool with an ice bucket crafted from your favorite blooms," says Sylvester. (via 5ive15ifteen Photo Company)

Neon Signs: "Done in moderation, neon can be exactly what you need to punch up your color palette," says Sylvester. She suggests lighting up cocktail hour with custom neon signs or displaying a neon light that depicts your wedding hashtag or new initials behind your sweetheart table. This trend also doubles as a photo booth backdrop or newlywed home decor piece. (via Jessica Eileen Drogosz)
Calligraphy Overload: It's time to take that sophisticated script well beyond the invites. Sylvester recommends hiring a calligrapher for everything from lucite table numbers and wine glasses to fondant cakes and mirrors. (via Sam Teich)
Printed Bridesmaid Dresses Printed bridesmaid dresses are an eye-catching way to ensure your ladies stand out. "Keep things uniform by dressing your party in matching printed gowns, or have your bridesmaids wear dresses in the same color family," says Sylvester. (via Joseph Lin)
Hot Chocolate Bars: For a signature sip your guests will obsess over, Sylvester suggests a hot drink station equipped with candy cane or cinnamon stirrers, marshmallows, and plenty of whipped cream. To take it to the next level, pour boozy add-ins like Baileys or peppermint schnapps into plaid canisters — just make sure to have them properly labeled. (via Katelyn James Photography)


Check out Brit + Co Weddings for all things nuptials, and follow us on Pinterest for more beautiful and creative wedding inspo.


Check out Brit + Co Weddings for all things nuptials, and follow us on Pinterest for more beautiful and creative wedding inspo.

(Photos via The Knot)

The Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce engagement rumors aren't new, but while the internet discusses whether Taylor's hiding an engagement ring, the celebrity couple rarely talks about it. But in a recent interview ahead of the Super Bowl, when the Kansas City Chiefs tight end (and Eras Tour guest) got yet another engagement question, his answer wasn't no.

Here's what Travis Kelce said about proposing to Taylor Swift.

Will Travis Kelce propose to Taylor Swift at the Super Bowl?

While in New Orleans for the Super Bowl's opening night event on February 3, Travis Kelce was asked whether he plans to propose to popstar girlfriend Taylor Swift during the halftime show. “Wouldn’t you like to know,” Travis responded (via The Kansas City Star).

The last time Travis talked about popping the question, he told friend Jason Sudekis, "you're really pushing it."

And Travis' mom Donna Kelce told Page Six in October that "nobody knows" about a potential engagement: “We will see what happens. You never know.”

And fans are hoping it's not the only time they see Tay during the Big Game.

@callmeadal & then she’ll go on to announce Reputation (Taylor’s Version) 🐍🖤🏈 #swifttok#superbowlhalftimeshow#taylorswift#superbowl#kenndricklamar♬ original sound - therickybarrera

Well, a proposal isn't the only rumor swirling around Taylor Swift and the Super Bowl. The "Cruel Summer" singer will undoubtedly be in attendance to support her boyfriend at his third consecutive Big Game, and Swifties are hoping to see her on the field during Kendrick Lamar's Halftime Performance.

Taylor and Kendrick collaborated on "Bad Blood" (originally in 2015 and again in 2023), and it would be absolutely incredible if they were able to have a moment together! SZA is already confirmed to make a guest appearance and I'm hoping they'll sing "All The Stars" from Black Panther.

Tune into the Super Bowl on February 9 to see if Taylor gives a surprise performance — and if Travis proposes ;).

What do you think about these Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce engagement rumors? Read up on Travis Kelce's Dream Wedding for even more info on your favorite lovebirds.

All the intensity of Yellowstone and 1923 season 2 can be hard to consume when you just want to turn on the TV and relax. And that's exactly where When Hope Calls comes in. The TV show has all the Western flair you love about shows like Yellowstone, with the romance, friendship, and well, hope, of your favorite Hallmark movies.

You can stream the first season on Hallmark+, and it looks like after three years, we're finally getting season 2! Keep reading for everything you need to know about the When The Heart Calls spin-off, inspired by the world of Janette Oke's books.

Here's everything we know about When Hope Calls season 2, premiering on PureFlix and Great American Family April 2025.

Where can I watch season 2 of When Hope Calls?

Hallmark Media

New episodes of When Hope Calls are premiering on PureFlix Thursday, April 3, 2025 and Great American Family Sunday April 6, 2025.

What is When Hope Calls about?

Hallmark Media

The TV show follows Lillian (Morgan Kohan) and Grace (Jocelyn Hudon), who were separated as children after the death of their parents. Reunited as adults in 1916, and still healing from past wounds, the sisters open an orphanage of their own in the Canadian town of Brookfield, and quickly fall in love with the children — and handsome strangers — they meet.

Who's in the When Hope Calls cast?

Hallmark Media

The When Hope Calls season 2 cast features some incredible names, including your favorite Sullivan's Crossing star! Here's the full breakdown:

  • Morgan Kohan as Lillian Walsh: Grace's older sister who was adopted after the death of their parents.
  • Ryan-James Hatanaka as Gabriel "Gabe" Kinslow: a local Mountie who catches Lillian's eye.
  • Wendy Crewson as Tess Steward: the owner of the big local ranch and Chuck's mother
  • Hanneke Talbot as Maggie Parsons: Brookfield's new nurse
  • Marshall Williams as Sam Tremblay: a newcomer who works as a handyman at Lillian's orphanage
  • Neil Crone as Ronnie Stewart: the hotel manager who's also Tess's brother-in-law
  • Christopher Russell as Michael Fletcher: a new Mountie in Brookfield.
  • Sarah Fisher as Hannah Lawrence: a woman in town who's recently inherited a ranch.
  • Nick Bateman as Wyatt: Hannah's foreman.
  • Cindy Busby as Nora: a lawyer.

How many episodes of When Hope Calls season 2 are there?

Hallmark Media

There will be eight episodes of When Hope Calls season 2 total, premiering on April 3, 2025. Stay tuned for the full schedule!

Why is Grace no longer on When Hope Calls?

Hallmark Media

Because of scheduling conflicts, actress Jocelyn Hudon was not able to appear in the When Hope Calls Christmas specials. To explain her absence, the show wrote that Grace moved to England to open an orphanage there. I have all my fingers crossed we'll see her make a season 2 guest appearance, though!

Will there be more season 2 of When Hope Calls?

Hallmark Media

Yes, season 2 is coming! The When Hope Calls: A Country Christmas holiday special premiered in 2021, but it's not necessarily part of season 2 of the show. You can rewatch the special anytime you want on PureFlix.

Stay tuned for the latest When Hope Calls season 2 news, and updates on Netflix's New Romance TV Show Ransom Canyon.

Did Tom Holland and Zendaya spike the air with love following their engagement news? I mean, it seems like everyone's popping the question these days! If you've recently said "yes" to the love of your life's big question, all that's left to do now is start planning so you can walk down the aisle into the next chapter of your relationship's story.

Before you start randomly choosing wedding dates, you may want to take advice from Amy Abbott of Amy Abbott Events, Tara Fay of Tara Fay Events, and Wendee Vezzetti of Custom Weddings of Colorado because they have keen tips to help you avoid a few faux pas. Think of it as their way of helping you avoid further stress.

"While every couple's wedding day is special, there are a few dates that might cause more stress than celebration — both on the day and in the years to come," says Vezzetti.

Scroll to see the worst days to have your wedding!

Khaki Bedford

1. New Years Eve

December 31 may have come and gone, but there's always more NYE events to come. It's just one of the worst days to have your wedding. No, I mean it. Abbott suggests this isn't the time to pack two celebratory events into one. As the owner and creative director of Amy Abbott Events, she's helped plan luxurious weddings for some of Hollywood's top celebrities and athletes — including Simone Biles!

So, why no fabulous wedding on NYE? She says, "You’ll end up paying almost 50 percent more as vendors typically charge much higher rates." But, that's just the tip of the iceberg. She also adds, "For destination weddings during this time of year, hotels often enforce 5- to 7-night minimum stays, with hotel rates being nearly double. This can make it almost impossible for your guests to commit to attending your wedding." Even if you think money isn't an issue, she advises "it's just a very costly option."

That's not the only issue you could face. "To add to the challenge, some of the best vendors often take the entire holiday season off, making availability a significant issue." This just made our jaws drop because we didn't know this! But we can imagine this feels like one of the times they get to catch their breath before prepping for such a huge moment in people's lives so it's not unbelievable!

Jim Trice

2. Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is such a romantic day that deserves to be reserved for celebrating how much you're in love. But, please don't think your wedding has to be on February 14. Vezzetti says this day along with NYE "may sound romantic," but they're not in "reality."

She says, "These dates are super popular for weddings and other celebrations, which means venues and vendors charge a premium." And guess what? She says you're not even considering "future anniversaries."

Her advice if you decide to forge ahead is: "Good luck booking a cozy dinner reservation when everyone else is celebrating too."

Khaki Bedford for Amy Abbott Events

3. Super Bowl Sunday

Another thing Fay says couples "often forget about" are "major sporting events." Her rule of thumb is to "try to understand the guest list and audience" so her team can be "conscious of their experiences."

It's the reason she's against have a wedding on Super Bowl Sunday. She says, "It may leave guests less present at your event, even if you're not a football fan. So we [the Tara Fay Events team] try to be conscious of big cultural and sporting events like this."

Always be aware of times close to major holidays. If guests have to travel distances and be away from their families, that may impact your rsvp’s. Plus, it’s typically more expensive to travel those times of year. Don’t forget about international holidays as well, Diwali for example.

Amy Abbott Events

4. Labor Day

Vezzetti also discourages scheduling a wedding on Labor Day. The rule used to be that you couldn't wear white after this holiday passed, but now you need to rethink your plans if you plan to trade 'I Do's" on this date.

"Long holiday weekends may seem ideal for travel, but they also come with headaches. First, heavy traffic," says Vezzetti. She and her team "have seen travel times TRIPLE on Colorado roadways during these holidays." This fact alone made our hearts skip a beat because we caught of a flash of you potentially being late your own wedding!

Also, Vezzetti says you won't be the only person in town for a holiday like this. "Because everyone else is traveling, lodging and restaurants are hard to come by, especially popular mountain retreats in places like Colorado."

Amy Abbott Events

5. Memorial Day

Sigh... We don't know why anyone would want to have a wedding on Memorial Day, but personal preference always plays a factor in decisions like this. The issue, Vezzetti warns, is that you're risking a lot by doing so. "Before you set the date, do a little research as to local annual events," she advises.

For example, Boulder, Colorado is a "great destination with amazing scenery, warm weather, and world-class dining" according to her. "But Memorial Day in Boulder, Colorado brings more than 50,000 runners into town. So definitely check the local calendar for your wedding destination and make sure you aren't going to share your special day with thousands of others."

Can you imagine having an outdoor wedding where your guests are torn between watching you emotionally exchange vows as marathon runners sprint nearby?

Taryn Baxter for Amy Abbott Events

I'm kind of scared I'll choose the wrong date. What are good days or months to have my wedding?

This sounds like a "how-to" guide of everything you shouldn't do when choosing your wedding date, but there's still a large window of opportunity! "The best months to get married for tropical destination weddings are October 15th through July 15th," Abbott says.

But, there's a catch. "Once you go beyond that, you risk running into hurricane season. Even if you're fortunate enough to avoid a storm, the intense heat and relentless bugs can take away from the enjoyment of your day," she adds. All in all, "it's simply not an ideal time of year" because "the weather can significantly impact your overall experience," according to her.

Amy Abbott Events

Fay agrees with this by adding "major weather events are important to consider" at all times. She also added you should "take note of monsoon months" along with "hurricane season." She knows no one can really "predict bad weather," but she wants you to "aim for months that more often provide the experience you're looking to have."

Vezzetti says "popular dates in Colorado are the summer months (June-September) because of the scenic outdoor backdrops and warm weather." But she knows there are "trade-offs" like "venues and vendors" booking early, plus the chance "you might pay higher prices" even though the "gorgeous sand makes it worth it!"

The truth is that your special day should feel as seamless as possible. Something is sure not to go according to plan, but it shouldn't involve something interrupting the entire date you've chosen to have your weeding. Fay's final piece of advice, "If you want to get married in Europe, be aware of when Europeans go on holiday and try to avoid August which is the busiest time for major European countries.

But, the trade-offs are that venues and vendors book early and you might pay higher prices (but it's gorgeous sand worth it!). But, if you want to save, In Colorado late spring (April–May) and late fall (November) are excellent for the value. Plus, venues and vendors often have more availability. This concept can be applied to other destinations, but they may have seasonal variations. So, be sure to check the seasonal highs and lows in whatever area you are planning to tie the knot.

Amy Abbott Events

A tip you may not have considered is doing "a little research on when courthouses in the destination issue marriage licenses." Vezzetti suggests doing this so you're well-prepared and can "plan with enough travel time so you are not scrambling to get your legal documents."

Not sure when to go? Vezzetti says, "In most States, courthouses are only open during banking hours (Mon-Fri, generally), and while the process may quick (in Colorado, expect 15 minutes, tops), couples without a plan might find themselves in panic mode." Didn't we say we don't want you passing out before your big day even arrives? Take Vezzetti's advice and "do a little research" so you can "plan to arrive a day early!"

Before you panic, Abbott has one last thing to share. "The good news? There are nearly nine and a half months of perfect timing for wedding planning, giving couples plenty of options to make their big day truly unforgettable!"

Follow us on Pinterest for more wedding inspo!

The internet is already buzzing about Netflix's new romantic Western drama, Ransom Canyon, which drops on the streamer April 17. It's got everything: secrets, romance, horses. And plenty of standout stars. Here's a full rundown of the Ransom Canyon cast, because the lineup is almost too good to be true. Until the show drops, stock up on The 10 Best Cowboy Boots Right Now ;).

Keep reading to meet the full Ransom Canyon cast before the Netflix TV show premieres on April 17.

1. Josh Duhamel as Staten Kirkland

Netflix

Josh Duhamel stars as Staten Kirkland, the owner of Double K Ranch who's fighting to protect his ranch and his way of life.

2. Minka Kelly as Quinn O'Grady

Anna Kooris/Netflix

We'll also see Euphoria and Friday Night Lights star Minka Kelly as Quinn O’Grady. Quinn's back from a life in New York as a concert pianist and is looking for a new start.

3. Marianly Tejada as Ellie Estevez

Netflix

Marianly Tejada (who you'll recognize from One of Us is Lying) stars as Ellie Estevez, who yearns to leave an impact on Ransom Canyon. But while she's as tough as they come, she also checks in on Cap.

4. Jack Schumacher as Yancy Grey

Netflix

Jack Schumacher plays the charming, mysterious Yancy Grey, who has a secret past he's struggling to keep hidden from Ellie and the rest of Ransom Canyon.

5. Eoin Macken as Davis Collins

Ursula Coyote/NBC

Eoin Macken stars as Davis Collins, who owns Bar W Ranch and constantly buts heads with Staten over capitalizing on the land — and over Quinn.

6. James Brolin as Cap

Netflix

Sweet Tooth's James Brolin stars as ex-Army captain Cap, who owns Fuller Ranch.

7. Lizzy Greene as Lauren Brigman

Netflix

Lizzy Greene is a part of the Ransom Canyon cast as Lauren Brigman, head cheerleader, sheriff's daughter, and girlfriend to quarterback Reid. But she dreams of leaving for Austin, and isn't expecting Lucas to capture her heart.

8. Garrett Wareing as Lucas Russell

NBC

Garrett Wareing stars as Lucas Russell, who's working to provide for his family and dreaming of a life beyond the Canyon.

9. Andrew Liner as Reid Collins

Jose Haro/Peacock

Andrew Liner plays Reid Collins, who's dealing with secrets of his own and hides his desire to be loved behind a cocky exterior.

Read up on the latest Ransom Canyon news for more!

Though we're all about our reusable water bottles (and everything related to the Stanley tumbler), the love we have for fancy-shmancy bottled water is just undeniable. Despite the crisp, cold convenience associated with bottled drinking water, there's a *huge* rift in which brands actually taste good.

Some drinkers prefer Aquafina over Dasani (or even artesian water cuvée, like the cast of Vanderpump Rules), and that's okay – but sommelier Belinda Chang has an immeasurable wealth of knowledge to dictate which ones are worth sipping on based on their flavor (and yes, they differ).

Not every bottled water is created equal, and this expert-backed ranking is proof. Onward!

What type of bottled water is healthiest?

Pavel Danilyuk / PEXELS

Mineral water is considered the healthiest bottled drinking water since it contains additional minerals and vitamins.

What is the top-rated bottled water?

Towfiqu Barbhuiya / PEXELS

According to our ranking of the best and worst bottled waters, Roundy's bottled drinking water is #1.

Is bottled water safe to drink?

Mart Production / PEXELS

In terms of your health, all plastic bottled waters are the worst – they can contain hundreds of thousands of microplastics that harm the body. The safest bottled water you can drink is likely some filtered drinking water that you put into a reusable water bottle.

What are the top 5 worst bottled waters?

Karolina Grabowska / PEXELS

Propel, Dasani, Ice Mountain, Aquafina, and Naleczowianka are the top 5 worst bottled drinking waters, according to their taste.

What is the top 5 best drinking water?

Nerea Arance / PEXELS

According to expert water sommelier rankings, the top 5 best drinking waters are: Evian, Smeraldina, SmartWater, Fiji, and Roundy's.

Meet Sommelier Brenda Chang!

BelindaChang.com

Belinda Chang hails from Chicago, and was formerly the head of the wine and spirits program at upscale steakhouse Maple & Ash, so she knows her drinks. While she usually puts her skills towards perfect pairings of wine and sumptuous meals, Belinda welcomed Thrillist into her domain to put water to the ultimate test.

Belinda compared ten different bottled water brands by evaluating their flavor, aroma, texture and finish of each, giving them a score out of a possible 100 points. Her bottled water ratings shed light on which brands you should drink!

“A good bottled water shouldn’t have any off-putting aromas or flavors – that would be an automatic negative,” Belinda explained. “In wine, we always talk about terroir, and I think for water, it’s the same. You want it to speak of the place where it comes from. And, of course, you want it to be delicious.”

The Best Bottled Drinking Water, Ranked

10. Propel: 69/100

Propel

When it came to tasting Propel bottled water, Belinda was immediately put off by the odor, saying it smells "salty, metallic.” Ew. When it came to taste, it might not have been as bad, but it certainly wasn’t an A+.

“When it gets onto your tongue, the impact is bizarre. The texture and flavor is a lot like Gatorade, but not masked with orange or blue raspberry.”

9. Dasani: 70/100

Dasani

Dasani was another bottled drinking water that was... somewhat stinky. “See, this one does not smell good — it smells like a wine that’s been dosed with sulphates.” What’s with all the smelly water?

Belinda deemed that when it comes to Dasani, “The thirst-quenching quotient is really low on this guy.”

8. Ice Mountain: 81/100

Ice Mountain

Ice Mountain bottled drinking water got it right if you’re looking for nothing but water – tasteless water.

“It’s completely neutral in almost every way, which I think is a total positive.” In this case, definitely. Though Belinda did note a slight “mineral-y” aftertaste, a “pipe-like flavor.” No thanks.

7. Aquafina: 84/100

Aquafina

Instead of tasting pipe-like, Belinda felt Aquafina tasted “a little powdery, with some dissolved minerals and a little bit of salt.” Still, she felt that this was a decent thirst-quencher.

“For an inexpensive water that you’re just drinking because you’re in the airport and you want to hydrate before you go on a flight, I think this is a good option.”

6. Naleczowianka: 89/100

Naleczowianka

Naleczowianka bottled drinking water was another water with a “distinctive” smell — this time, a stony hint. Kinda strangely, it made Belinda think of “a salt character — I want it with a pierogi.” That’s… specific.

Overall, this one failed where it seems to matter the most, with the skilled sommelier noting, “It’s not that thirst-quenching. It dries out the palate.”

5. Evian: 90/100

Evian

Evian bottled drinking water is better when it comes to the smell, Belinda claiming it’s “really clean on the nose.” But interestingly, she also noted, “I do taste the Alps — I don’t smell them, but I taste them. And I can definitely imagine myself après-ski with a bottle of Evian.” That’s a plus for Evian!

4. Smeraldina: 92/100

Smeraldina

Smeraldina bottled drinking water scored slightly higher than Evian despite the fact that “after you have a sip of it, it feels like there’s this fine silt lying on your tongue.”

Besides that, however, “this would transport you back to the south of Italy.” Whoa. First the Alps, now Italy. We’re globetrotting with every sip.

3. Smartwater: 93/100

Smartwater

Smartwater is actually something that Belinda is familiar with herself, but admitted, “I’ve always chugged this the next morning when I’m hungover.” However, when she took some time to consider it, she claims, “it’s probably 1000% the marketing, but it does taste different,” i.e. a really interesting texture in the mid-palate, which Belinda assumes is the added electrolytes.

2. Fiji: 98/100

Fiji Water

Fiji took the runner-up spot of the best bottled water to drink, partly due to the fact that it’s “totally neutral on the nose, which [Belinda thinks] is important,” but it was also the fact that it’s a heavy water that got Belinda’s stamp of approval.

“[If] you want to drink a glass of water after a spectacular dish or, like, a great bite of a burger, you want something that cleanses, and this is it. I really love this water.”

1. Roundy's Purified Drinking Water: 99/100

Roundy's

And the bottled water winner is… Roundy’s!

First, the smell won Belinda over. “This is going to sound so weird, but it’s a little sweet-smelling — which I like!” But, of course, that wasn’t all. Taste is the major factor here, and the sommelier thought this option was delicious. “It has no pretension, it’s incredibly thirst-quenching."

"It doesn’t taste like anything, which is perfect. When you’re drinking water you just want to be drinking water, and this is the most watery of all the waters. This is the Moet Imperial of bottled water — it’s simple, it’s classic and it does exactly what it’s supposed to do. It delivers and that’s my professional opinion.”

Do you notice differences in the taste of water from different brands and your tap? Tweet us @BritandCo!

H/T Thrillist.

This post has been updated.