How to Plan an Autumn Wedding

Posted by Rob A on August 19th, 2019

With the changing of the leaves, the cooler temperatures, and starry nights, there are many reasons to fall in love with an autumn wedding.

The Venue

Choosing a venue is very important when you plan a wedding later in the year. Fall weather can change dramatically within a few days. Ensure that your venue has an indoor option or rain plan in place just in case. Hosting a ceremony at an orchard or farm can be a great choice to really celebrate the spirit of the season. The chilly temps can be a great reason to really embrace a cozy atmosphere with plush throws, hot chocolate, fire pits, and s’mores.

You will want to reserve your venue and other necessities (heaters, tent rental, music bands, portable restrooms) right away. September and October are not only peak wedding months but some of the busiest months for festivals and other events. Sunset is a great time to take full advantage of the romance of the fall colors. Your guests can sip champagne during a cocktail hour as they stroll through and admire the beauty of the fall foliage.

The Ambiance

A key piece of advice is not to go overboard with pumpkin. Due to a highly saturated market most guests will have already been inundated with pumpkin flavored products. Instead, choose to embrace other delightful scents and tastes of the season like chocolate, caramel, pear, ginger, rosemary, mushrooms, and slow roasted meats. Think warm and spicy, savory and toasty. Spiked cider and warm drinks at the bar will be a big hit as the sun and temperatures go down in the evening.

The decor you choose can be elegant or cozy and celebrate the colors and traditions of the autumn. Having natural elements like twigs, leaves, and berries can be a great way to incorporate nature. Using seasonal flowers in your bouquet and floral arrangements will give them a better chance of withstanding the weather and provide colors and textures that tie the elements together.

The Colors

Finally there is the question of color. While you do not have to use red, orange, and yellow you should keep to a few rules. One is to use deeper or muted tones. Choose royal hues, warm neutrals, and metallics. Soft jewel tones like mauve bridesmaid dresses or plum are good choices as well. For the men navy tones and emerald greens are great choices.

Keep in mind the weather of the season for you and your wedding party’s attire. Faux fur shrugs or soft cashmere shawls will not only look stunning paired with mauve bridesmaid dresses, but will keep shoulders warm and goosebump free. Closed toe shoes and sleeves are also a good idea for fashion and function at a fall wedding.