Holiday Wedding Planning | How to Pull Off an Epic Celebration

Planning a Holiday Wedding: Erica & Brian’s Unforgettable New Year’s Eve Celebration

Holiday weddings don’t just mark one special day—they create a whole vibe. Think about it: the romance of candlelight, the excitement of the season, and the opportunity to throw a memorable party for your nearest and dearest. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to pull off a festive wedding that doubles as an unforgettable holiday bash, Erica and Brian’s New Year’s Eve wedding at the George Washington Hotel in Pittsburgh is the ultimate inspiration.

If you’re thinking about planning a holiday wedding—whether it’s Valentine’s Day, Halloween, 4th of July, or, like Erica and Brian, New Year’s Eve—I say DO IT. But there are a few things to consider so your day is as spectacular as theirs. Let’s talk details!

A Glamorous Love Story Worth Celebrating

I can only describe Erica as a real-life Barbie with a heart of gold to match her stunning beauty. From her radiant smile to her confidence and kindness, she is pure magic in front of the camera—picture the grace of Audrey Hepburn mixed with the style icon energy of modern Barbie. She also has a high-fashion style that can make any outfit look red-carpet-worthy.

And Brian? He’s the perfect counterpart to Erica—fun, laid-back, and head over heels in love with his bride. Together, they’re the kind of couple you can’t help but adore. Watching them together was like watching a classic romance unfold in real-time. The way they looked at each other, laughed together, and danced the night away made every moment feel like magic.

The two tied the knot in a stunning ceremony followed by a New Year’s Eve celebration that made everyone feel like they were stepping into a party straight out of The Great Gatsby.

The vibe? Sophisticated black-and-white elegance with a dash of festive New Year’s Eve fun. Picture this: soft candlelight reflecting off elegant table settings, chic black and white decor, and clocks on each table to count down to midnight. Oh, and did I mention the disco ball? Because YES, there was a disco ball—because no NYE wedding is complete without a little sparkle.

From heartfelt toasts to a jam-packed dance floor, it was clear that Erica and Brian wanted their guests to feel as special as they did. And when the clock struck midnight? Cheers, laughter, and a whole lot of love filled the room. It was the perfect way to kick off 2025—and their new life together.

Tips for Planning A Holiday Wedding

Inspired yet? Whether you’re dreaming of your own NYE bash or another holiday-themed wedding, here are some tips to help you make it unforgettable:

1. Embrace the Holiday Vibe (But Make It Yours)

The best holiday weddings lean into the spirit of the season without feeling like a copy of a Hallmark movie. Erica and Brian nailed this by incorporating New Year’s Eve traditions—like the countdown and disco ball—but keeping the vibe elegant and uniquely them. Think about what you love most about the holiday you’re planning around and find ways to weave it into your day.

2. Book Early—Like, Really Early

Here’s the thing about holiday weddings: venues and vendors book up FAST. Erica and Brian were smart to lock in the George Washington Hotel and their talented vendor team well in advance. If you’re eyeing a popular date like New Year’s Eve or the 4th of July, plan to book at least a year (or more!) ahead.

3. Consider Your Guests

Holiday weddings can be a gift and a challenge for your guests. On one hand, you’re giving them an unforgettable way to celebrate. On the other, it’s important to acknowledge that some folks might already have plans or commitments, and that’s okay! Go into it knowing that some people may have to bow out. Give them plenty of notice with Save the Dates, and consider offering hotel blocks or transportation options to make things as easy as possible.

4. Go Big on the Details

One of the fun parts of a holiday wedding is how much you can lean into the details to create a truly immersive experience. For Erica and Brian, the little touches—the clocks on the tables, the festive party props for the countdown, and the glittery details—made the night feel so special.

Consider ways to surprise and delight your guests with thoughtful elements that tie into your theme. Love Christmas? Maybe it’s miniature stockings as place cards. Obsessed with Halloween? Go for spooky-chic decor with moody lighting and dramatic florals. I’ve also seen a Dia de los Muertos wedding that was just incredible.

5. Consider the Perks of a Holiday Wedding

A holiday wedding can save you some extra planning! You’re working with an already festive vibe, which means you can incorporate existing seasonal décor or traditions into your day. Bonus: Everyone’s already in celebration mode!

6. Consider the Logistics

The holidays can be a busy—and expensive—time of year, so keep those things in mind while planning. Venue availability, vendor schedules, and even guest travel costs can be trickier during holiday seasons. Lock in your bookings early, and communicate with your vendors to ensure everything runs smoothly.

7. Plan for the Unexpected

Holidays can bring unique challenges, from unpredictable weather to travel complications. Be prepared with a solid backup plan—like an indoor option for an outdoor ceremony or extra buffer time for vendor arrivals. Erica and Brian planned their New Year’s Eve timeline strategically, building in time for delays while still giving themselves space to savor every moment. Flexibility and a good sense of humor will go a long way in ensuring you can roll with any surprises.

8. End with a Holiday-Themed Send Off

If there’s one thing Erica and Brian taught us, it’s that a holiday wedding deserves a grand finale. For them, it was the midnight countdown, complete with Champagne toasts, cake, and a packed dance floor with celebratory NYE hugs and kisses.

Think about how you want your celebration to end—whether it’s a sparkler send-off, a fireworks display, or even a late-night snack station—and make it something your guests will never forget.

Why a Holiday Wedding Might Be Your Best Idea Yet

I don’t think any of Erica and Brian’s guests will forget their wedding anytime soon—and that’s the beauty of a holiday celebration. It’s not just a wedding; it’s a memory-packed event that brings people together in a way they’ll cherish forever.

Ultimately, a holiday wedding is about creating a celebration that reflects your love story while embracing the season’s magic. Whether planning a cozy winter wonderland, a summer soirée, or a Halloween masquerade, let Erica and Brian’s stunning New Year’s Eve wedding remind you that the best weddings are where love, joy, and a whole lot of fun take center stage.