Q: I love pastels, but my heart is set on a winter wedding. Is there a way to make my palette less springy?

A: Absolutely. “Any pastel can look wintry,” says Martha Stewart Weddings style director Kate Berry. The key is to steer clear of the classic Easter-candy combination of robin’s-egg blue, yellow, lavender and cotton-candy pink. Instead, consider an equally soft yet surprising duo like blue and light green — or take a cue from Turkish-delight candies, those pale-pink-and-green confections dusted with powdered sugar. Then, add a neutral color to your pastel mix, such as taupe, gray or slate. For a formal affair, metallic elements (think silver or gold vessels) will set a festive tone; if your look is more low-key, layer in snowy whites or sage greens.

Q: As the mother of the bride, I know I should wear a corsage, but they can damage clothing and often don’t stay upright. Is a wristlet too old-fashioned?

A: A wrist corsage is only as old-fashioned as its design, says senior style editor Naomi de Manana. To give yours a modern look, she suggests a flower that is “big and elegant,” like a gardenia or a flat garden rose, and opting for a ribbon base over an elastic band. Or try something entirely different. “A flower tucked in the back of upswept hair can be stunning,” Naomi says. For this, gardenias, garden roses or cattleya orchids work nicely with rose leaves, camellia or galax to add a little greenery. Another option is to “carry a small nosegay of lily of the valley, muscari, violets or sweet peas,” she says. That way, you can pick up the bouquet for photos and the processional, and leave it on the table when it’s time to hit the dance floor.

Q: My dad passed when I was younger, and I’m having a hard time picturing my walk down the aisle. Should I ask someone to accompany me or go it alone?

A: First, we’re sorry for your loss. Whether it’s been two years or 20 since a loved one’s been gone, you always feel their absence during big moments like your wedding. One thing that can help is including him in some manner. “You can honor him in many heartfelt ways — have the officiant say a few words, light a candle or acknowledge him in your ceremony program or toast,” says editor-in-chief Elizabeth Graves, whose own father passed away when she was 16. As for who should be next to you as you enter, that’s entirely your call. “A bride no longer needs someone to give her away. You can walk down the aisle alone or with anyone who plays a very meaningful role in your life,” she says. “For me, it was my brother, and it was so nice to have him by my side.”

Q: How can I encourage my groom to help with wedding-related tasks without coming across like a nag?

A: The key is to ask for specific assistance. Generalities like “I need help! There’s tons to do!” sound vast and ominous. And in truth, he probably has no idea how to help. However, statements like, “Let’s go hear some music!” sound manageable, and even an enjoyable way to spend an evening. Create a timeline of to-dos so that you both know exactly what has to be done and when. Then pick tasks he’ll enjoy, such as selecting the menu or planning the honeymoon. Also, see if he’s willing to pitch in on the not-so-fun activities, like getting the guest list Excel sheet in tiptop shape or proofreading the invitation. Think of planning not as a chore but as a choose-your-own-adventure, and you’ll be set for a great wedding (and a great marriage).

Q: I hate the dress my mom bought to wear for my wedding, and I’m torn about whether to be honest. She’s excited about it, and I don’t want to hurt her feelings, but I know she wants to look her best.

A: “The good news is, it’s your mom,” says style editor Melissa Colgan. “She’s probably been plenty honest with you about things you’ve wanted to wear on other occasions.” So voice your opinion, but do it gently — and specifically. “Point out one aspect of the dress that is not the most flattering, such as, ‘The color washes you out,’ or ‘The bodice distracts from your face,’” Melissa suggests. Then, play good fashion cop to your own bad cop by turning the situation into an opportunity to have a fun shopping day together. “Say ‘Hey, I saw the most amazing blue dress that would really bring out the color of your eyes,’ or ‘I need a rehearsal-dinner outfit — will you help me find one, and we can look for your gown at the same time?’” That way, you’re offering help — and mother-daughter bonding time — instead of just criticism. One note of caution: This approach works only with loved ones with whom you’ve already logged years of bickering and bonding — your mother, sister or best friend. If it’s your mother-in-law’s dress that you hate, it’s probably best to keep your opinion to yourself for the sake of your future relationship.