Katie and Michael’s cozy Christmas wedding was the perfect way to close out our 2025 season. Held in downtown Cincinnati, their day was filled with soft candlelight, fresh white roses, and festive red details, making everything feel both romantic and joyful. These two chose a winter wedding because they wanted something different. In Cincinnati, winter weddings are rare, so planning one around Christmas made it feel even more unique and special.
We first met Katie and Michael at another wedding we photographed at the same venue, the Cincinnati Club. That day left a big impression on them. When it came time to plan their own celebration, they knew they wanted a similar vibe. They also knew they wanted a day that felt cozy, warm, and romantic, even in the middle of winter.
Hi, we’re Maggie and Amber, the best friend team behind Kindred Light Studios. We photograph weddings with a focus on real moments, calm guidance, and days that feel true to you. If you care more about how your wedding feels than how it looks on a checklist, we’d love to be part of it. You can explore our galleries to see more real weddings, or learn more about what it’s like to work with us from start to finish.
Getting Ready in Downtown Cincinnati
The day started at The Phelps Hotel, where Katie and her bridesmaids got ready. The rooms were calm and full of natural light, perfect for capturing details and sweet moments with her girls. Meanwhile, the groomsmen were just a few blocks away at the Cincinnati Athletic Club, suiting up and sharing some laughs.
Once everyone was dressed, the groomsmen traveled to The Phelps to meet up with the bridal party. Katie and Michael shared their first look outside the front of the hotel. There was still snow on the sidewalks from a big snowfall earlier in the week. Red holiday bows hung from the railings, and twinkling lights framed the scene. It looked like a postcard, just what Katie had hoped for.
Step into the heart of downtown Cincinnati and relive a wedding day filled with charm, emotion, and city sparkle. Read the full blog for all the sweet details!
Portraits at Lytle Park
After the first look, we walked over to Lytle Park with the whole bridal party. It was cold, but everyone handled it like champs. The light snow on the ground made everything look clean and soft. The park gave us the perfect city-meets-nature backdrop for bridal party portraits.
Before heading to the ceremony, we spent a little extra time taking portraits of Katie and Michael. These two were all smiles and handled the cold with lots of quick breaks in the party bus to warm up. Even though it was chilly, it was worth it. The soft winter light and festive surroundings gave their portraits a timeless, elegant feel.
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A Ceremony Full of Holiday Magic
Katie and Michael were married at Summit Country Day Church. It was fully decorated for the season, with red poinsettias filling the front of the church. The holiday florals and classic stained glass added to the cozy Christmas wedding look they had dreamed of. The ceremony itself was sweet and full of love. You could tell how much their families cared about them.
After the ceremony, we stayed at the church for family portraits. Everyone looked amazing, and the church setting gave us a peaceful spot to finish up all the formal photos before heading to the party.
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Reception at the Cincinnati Club
From the church, we made our way to the Cincinnati Club for the reception. The ballroom was transformed into something straight out of a winter romance. Katie and Michael chose a black-and-white color palette with soft touches of gold. White roses filled the room, and candles were everywhere. The glow from the candlelight made the space feel warm and welcoming.
Before guests entered, Katie and Michael did a private room reveal. We always recommend this if there’s time, and this moment proved why. They were blown away by the setup. Seeing their full vision brought to life was emotional, and they were so glad to take a moment just the two of them before the night took off.
Another thing they really valued was attending the cocktail hour. It gave them a chance to greet guests and soak in the setting. Guests sipped signature cocktails, enjoyed live piano music, and mingled beneath elegant chandeliers.
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A Night to Celebrate
The reception flowed right into the formalities. First dances brought both happy tears and big smiles. The toasts were heartfelt and full of stories that made everyone laugh. Katie and Michael also had a champagne tower, which was such a fun touch and looked beautiful with the candlelight in the background.
Dinner was followed by cake cutting, classic and sweet, and then the dance floor opened up. This was a very fun crowd. From the first song, the dance floor stayed full. People of all ages were out there dancing, celebrating, and waving glow sticks. The energy didn’t fade, even late into the night. It felt like the best kind of holiday party and wedding all rolled into one.
Loved this winter celebration? Head to the blog to see what makes each season in Cincinnati so special, and how to make the most of it.
Our Favorite Details from This Cozy Christmas Wedding
One of the most special parts of this cozy Christmas wedding was how well everything tied together. From the red bows at The Phelps Hotel, to the snowy sidewalks during portraits, to the poinsettias in the church, Katie and Michael never lost sight of their theme. Their candlelit reception was elegant without being too formal, and the black-and-white palette helped keep everything looking clean and timeless.
They also included little nods to the season in their cocktail hour, like their winter Aperol spritz signature drink and classic black-and-white signage. Even the napkins had a custom drawing of their pup, which was such a cute personal touch. Their night portraits under the string lights near the end of the evening were a perfect way to close things out. It was quiet, peaceful, and romantic. Just the two of them, surrounded by light.
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The Warmth and Joy of a Cozy Christmas Wedding
Katie and Michael’s cozy Christmas wedding was one of those days that we’ll be thinking about for a long time. Every detail felt true to them, from the candlelight and white roses to the big dance floor energy. They leaned into the season without going overboard, and the result was both elegant and warm.
We’re so thankful they invited us to be part of their story. It was the perfect wedding to end our year on, and we’ll always remember how magical this winter day felt.
Planning your own cozy Christmas wedding? Winter weddings in Cincinnati are full of charm, and we’d love to capture yours. Reach out to connect!
Vendors:
Venue: The Cincinnati Club
Coordination: Cincy Event Planning
Photo: Kindred Light Studios
Hair & Makeup: Reign Beauty
Florals: Flore
Cake: Spoon fulla Sugar
Catering: Mchale’s Catering
Music: DJ Jeffy J with Party Pleasers
Dress: Hyde Park Bridal
Transportation: Elegant Excursions
Guest Book: After the Tone
