A Winter Wedding in
the Alps at Schmelzhof, Lech am Arlberg
Luxury winter wedding in Austria’s snow-covered wonderland
A weekend full of good vibes, sunshine, and slushy snow. It started off with a get together in Schmelzhof followed by a joyful wedding day in Lech am Arlberg, a mountain village in the center of the Alps. The snow-blanketed alpine village of Lech am Arlberg offered a dreamlike setting for the winter wedding, its iconic chalets nestled beneath the towering peaks of the Austrian Alps. The couple exchanged vows in a nearby church, its traditional alpine design blending serenity with spiritual grandeur. The reception unfolded at the terrace of Schmelzhof, where regional ingredients were transformed into modern culinary art—an ode to Vorarlberg’s heritage. Outside, snow-laden pines framed the evening as guests raised glasses of Grüner Veltliner from a locally curated cellar. The gentle hush of falling snow only deepened the atmosphere, turning the celebration into a timeless winter tale where alpine elegance met heartfelt intimacy. For the party we went up to Rudalpe, on the slopes. Breathtaking Alpine scenery, amazing people, lots of apple strudel, and a great party!
For Art-Loving Couples Who Want Something Different
Tips for Planning a Winter Wedding in the Alps
This wedding wasn’t about grandeur or performance. It was about connection, atmosphere, and the beauty of fleeting moments. If you’re planning a wedding in the Alps and value art, emotion, and intentional storytelling, I’d love to help you bring it to life.
Whether you're dreaming of a mountaintop elopement or a weekend celebration in a snow-covered village, I travel throughout Austria, Switzerland, and Northern Italy to document weddings in analog, digital, and Super 8.
Let’s create something timeless — together.
Snowflakes quietly falling. The crunch of fresh powder underfoot. Mountains wrapped in soft fog and stillness. For couples who love the romance of winter, Lech am Arlberg offers a dreamlike backdrop for an intimate alpine wedding.
This recent celebration at Hotel Schmelzhof was exactly that — emotional, elegant, and artfully slow. Tucked into Austria’s most charming ski village, this wedding blended old-world alpine charm with refined editorial touches. Captured on analog film, digital, and Super 8, every frame felt like a painting in motion.
There’s something unforgettable about a winter wedding in the Alps.
Lech is known not only for its world-class skiing, but also for its storybook beauty. Set high in the Arlberg mountains, this Austrian village turns into a winter fairytale from December to March. Cozy chalets, horse-drawn carriages, and snow-laden forests create an atmosphere that’s serene and cinematic — ideal for couples who want something intimate, elegant, and a bit wild.
Hotel Schmelzhof was the perfect host: warm hospitality, sophisticated alpine interiors, and that rare balance of luxury and soul. Couples can exchange vows outdoors surrounded by snow-capped peaks, then celebrate fireside with candlelight, mulled wine, and classical music playing softly in the background.
Artful Storytelling in the Snow
As a wedding photographer in the Alps, I approach winter weddings like visual poetry. The way light reflects off the snow. The softness of the landscape. The intimacy that cold weather brings — all of it lends itself to a documentary, editorial approach.
For this celebration, I used a mix of 35mm film, digital, and Super 8 to preserve that sense of timelessness. Nothing rushes in the Alps — and that unhurried pace lets true emotion unfold naturally. Quiet glances, shared laughter, the gentle hush of falling snow — every moment feels cinematic.
Why Lech am Arlberg is Perfect for a Winter Wedding
If you're dreaming of your own alpine celebration, here are a few insights:
Plan for natural light. Winter days are short; aim for an early ceremony to make the most of soft daylight.
Dress warmly—but stylishly. Long-sleeve gowns, wool suits, and chic layering can be both practical and photogenic.
Think cozy. Blankets, hot drinks, intimate indoor dinners—lean into the season’s romance.
Book early. Popular alpine venues like Schmelzhof book quickly for winter dates.