This method to modeling a tree seems like the most complex and makes a more realistic tree with many leaves, which really isn't what I am looking for, but I can still use this for reference in making the tree trunks.
Autodesk Maya 2018 - Pine Tree Speed Modeling - YouTube (Preferred Method)
I really like the look of this tree and I think it works well with my film being more cartoony after my last two films were more realistic in their environments. I also think I would have a lot of fun playing with the texture of this type of tree with snow.
This is a tutorial for a similar tree to the one above but with a different (and seemingly more complex) approach. I can use this for reference if I later feel I could combine the two approaches.
This tutorial touches on how to use particles and convert them into polygons to create snow on top of other objects (like the trees).
Trees with bright snow on the branches like these feels more serene and could be used throughout the environment for most of the film.
While, taller trunks like these would work best for the segment where she runs in the forest to find the dog and he is kind of scary looking.
https://youtu.be/8AoLSQwvwQU