Fall is the perfect time for enchanting fall wedding ideas, with its crisp air, golden leaves, and cozy ambiance creating a naturally romantic backdrop. Autumn weddings are charm-filled, offering endless inspiration from the season’s vibrant fall wedding colors to themes ranging from vintage to bohemian chic. Whether you dream of an outdoor celebration surrounded by nature or a warm, intimate indoor gathering, fall sets the stage for an unforgettable day.
In this article, The Sixpence will show you how to plan for any unpredictable weather, so you can fully embrace the romance of the season with these enchanting fall wedding ideas.
Timeline for Fall Wedding Planning
Planning your fall wedding can be a delightful adventure filled with autumn magic! Start by choosing a date that reflects your vision, and then create a handy checklist to keep track of all the details. Since fall is a popular season, book your venue and key vendors like photographers and florists at least 6 to 12 months in advance to secure your favorites. Once you have your date and venue locked in, compile your guest list and send out beautiful fall-themed invitations about 8 to 12 weeks before the big day. As your Autumn wedding approaches, craft a detailed schedule and consider hiring a day-of coordinator to ensure everything goes smoothly, leaving you free to savor every magical moment!
We’ve put together a Preferred Vendors List, carefully curated from our own firsthand experience, just for you! Every couple that books with us will find this handy list tucked right into their Welcome Box! With our preferred list of vendors, you will have fewer things to worry about with your best fall wedding ideas!
Choosing a Fall Wedding Theme
Your theme sets the tone for your big day, and fall gives you plenty of creative options.
Rustic and Vintage Themes
If you’re dreaming of a charming countryside celebration, a rustic and vintage theme might be just what you need. Picture wooden details, lace accents, and delightful antique décor. A barn or farm venue pairs beautifully with this style, creating a laid-back atmosphere that feels both cozy and inviting. Add string lights, hay bales, and mason jars filled with wildflowers, and you’ll have a picture-perfect autumn setting!
Bohemian and Eclectic Styles
For couples with a free-spirited vibe, consider a bohemian theme that embraces a mix of textures, rich colors, and whimsical décor. Imagine a dreamy ceremony adorned with dreamcatchers, pampas grass, and earthy details that transport your wedding guests to a cozy, enchanted forest. This style allows for personal touches and creativity, making your wedding feel uniquely yours!
Elegant and Classic Autumn Celebrations
If timeless elegance is more your style, go for an elegant and classic autumn celebration. Picture a black-tie affair with sophisticated table settings, elegant florals, and soft candlelight creating a romantic ambiance. Think deep hues like burgundy and gold, paired with luxurious fabrics like velvet and silk. This theme exudes grace and will make your special day feel like a fairy tale!
Seasonal Themes
Embrace the essence of fall with seasonal themes that celebrate this beautiful time of year. Whether it’s a harvest-inspired gathering filled with pumpkins and autumn leaves, a whimsical Halloween wedding complete with spooky décor, or a cozy Thanksgiving celebration that focuses on gratitude and family, incorporating seasonal elements can make your wedding feel even more connected to the time of year.
Color Palettes for Fall Weddings
Your color palette is a major factor in bringing your favorite fall wedding ideas to life.
Warm Earth Tones
Embrace the rich essence of autumn with warm earth tones! Shades of orange, brown, and gold not only evoke the cozy feeling of fall but also create an inviting atmosphere that wraps your guests in warmth. Imagine your ceremony adorned with deep amber florals, rustic wooden accents, and candlelight flickering in shades of gold.
Rich Jewel Tones
If you’re looking to make a statement, consider incorporating rich jewel tones like emerald, burgundy, and deep purple. These luxurious colors add depth and drama to your celebration, perfect for couples who want to create a bold and romantic aesthetic. Picture stunning table settings featuring lush florals in jewel tones, creating an opulent ambiance that dazzles and delights.
Neutral Shades
For a more understated elegance, soft creams, grays, and taupes are the way to go. These neutral shades offer a sophisticated backdrop that complements the natural beauty of fall. Think of delicate cream flowers, taupe linens, and accents of gray in your décor. This subtle palette is perfect for couples who appreciate simplicity and grace.
Unique Combinations
Don’t be afraid to get creative! Mixing pastels with darker accents can give a fresh twist to traditional fall colors. Imagine soft blushes and lavender paired with deeper shades like navy or forest green. This approach adds lightness to your palette while still staying seasonally appropriate, resulting in a unique and memorable look that sets your fall wedding ideas apart.
Fall Wedding Attire
Autumn’s cooler temperatures open up exciting options for wedding fashion.
Bridal Gowns
When it comes to choosing your dream dress, fall opens the door to gorgeous options. Think about opting for heavier fabrics like satin or lace that will keep you warm while adding an air of elegance. Long sleeves are not only stylish but also practical for cooler weather. And why not consider a dramatic, flowing cape for a touch of romance? Imagine gliding down the aisle, cape billowing, as you embrace the enchantment of autumn!
Bridesmaids’ Dresses
Your bridesmaids will shine in warm, rich shades that echo the beauty of the season. Burgundy, burnt orange, and deep emerald are all fabulous choices that create a stunning fall palette. Whether you choose flowing maxi dresses or chic midi styles, your bridal party will look harmonious and vibrant against the backdrop of colorful autumn leaves.
Groomsmen Attire
For the groomsmen, consider dressing them in rich fabrics like velvet or tweed, which not only provide warmth but also add a touch of sophistication. Pairing these fabrics with jewel-toned ties or pocket squares creates a dashing look that complements the season beautifully. Think of how handsome they’ll look standing by your side, adding depth and style to your wedding party!
Accessories
Don’t forget the finishing touches! Adding seasonal accessories like stylish scarves, jackets, or shawls can keep everyone cozy while enhancing the overall look. Choose accessories in complementary colors to tie the whole outfit together. Plus, they make for adorable photo opportunities as you pose among the vibrant fall foliage!
Seasonal Floral Arrangements
Flowers are a perfect way to embrace the beauty of fall on your wedding day! The season offers a bounty of vibrant blooms and lush greenery that will give your celebration a warm, romantic feel.
Popular Fall Flowers
Imagine walking down the aisle surrounded by stunning chrysanthemums, dahlias, and sunflowers. These bold and colorful blooms are fall favorites, adding texture and richness to your floral arrangements. Their deep hues bring the warmth of the season right into your bouquet.
Incorporating Seasonal Foliage and Berries
Beyond flowers, fall is all about rich textures and earthy details. Incorporate autumn leaves, berries, and even branches into your arrangements for a rustic, natural touch. These elements add depth and make your flowers feel truly connected to the season.
DIY Floral Arrangements vs. Professional Florists
If you love the idea of crafting your own centerpieces or bouquets, DIY floral arrangements can be a fun, personal touch. But for those who want to leave it to the pros, working with a professional florist ensures you get expert design and stress-free execution. Either way, the beauty of fall blooms will shine through.
Unique Floral Displays
Think beyond traditional arrangements! Picture a flower arch draped with autumnal greenery for your ceremony backdrop or wedding centerpieces with cascading foliage and flickering candles. Even your bridal bouquet can be a unique display of the season’s splendor, with bold colors and unexpected textures woven together.
Fall Wedding Decor Ideas
When it comes to decorating for your fall wedding, the season offers endless possibilities to create a warm, inviting atmosphere that reflects your unique style and love story through your fall wedding ideas.
Table Settings: Rustic vs. Elegant
For a rustic vibe, think wooden tables, mismatched chairs, and earthy textures like burlap or linen. Add personal touches like handwritten name cards or small greenery bundles at each place setting. If you prefer something more elegant, go for polished gold accents, crystal glassware, and lush table linens in rich fall tones like deep burgundy or gold. Either way, your table will feel warm and welcoming.
Seasonal Centerpieces: Pumpkins, Leaves, and Candles
Fall is the perfect time to get creative with your centerpieces! Use mini pumpkins, autumn leaves, and flickering candles to bring seasonal charm to each table. Mixing in some metallic accents or deep-colored florals will elevate the look while still keeping that cozy, seasonal feel.
Creative Signage and Favors
Make your day extra special with personalized signage that welcomes guests or highlights your love story. Go for chalkboards, wooden signs, or even calligraphy on autumn leaves as fun options. For favors, think seasonal and memorable: jars of homemade jam, honey, or mini pumpkins are delightful ways to thank your guests.
Incorporating Natural Elements
Bring the outdoors in with wedding decorations made from natural materials like wood, stone, and cozy fabrics. Wooden accents can appear in everything from signage to table numbers, while stone or slate details offer a refined yet earthy touch. Adding fabrics like wool, burlap, or velvet to your décor creates a soft, intimate feel perfect for a fall celebration.
Catering and Seasonal Menus
Your fall wedding menu is the perfect opportunity to indulge in the cozy, comforting flavors of the season.
Fall-Inspired Appetizers and Main Courses
Kick things off with fall-inspired appetizers like butternut squash soup shooters, caramelized onion tarts, or roasted fig and goat cheese crostini. For the main course, hearty dishes such as herb-crusted chicken, braised short ribs, or wild mushroom risotto will leave guests feeling warm and satisfied. Infuse your menu with seasonal flavors like apple, sage, and roasted root vegetables for a true taste of fall.
Autumn Desserts: Pies, Tarts, and Seasonal Treats
When it comes to dessert, fall wedding ideas are all about comforting classics. Serve up mini apple pies, pumpkin tarts, or cinnamon-spiced doughnuts for a sweet finale. Want to wow your guests? Consider a pie bar with a variety of seasonal flavors, from pecan to maple!
Signature Cocktails for Fall Weddings
A seasonal signature cocktail is a fun way to personalize your wedding menu. Think spiced apple cider mimosas, bourbon hot toddies, or cranberry margaritas as drinks that are as festive as they are delicious. These warm, autumn-inspired beverages will keep your guests toasty all night long.
Vegan and Gluten-Free Options for Fall
Make sure all your guests can enjoy the feast with vegan and gluten-free options that still embrace the season’s flavors. Think roasted vegetable and quinoa bowls, stuffed acorn squash, or gluten-free pumpkin bread. With so many seasonal ingredients available, creating inclusive yet mouthwatering dishes is easier than ever!
Fun Fall Wedding Activities
Turn your fall wedding ideas into a celebration to remember by adding fun, interactive activities that capture the playful spirit of the season.
Outdoor Games: Hayrides and Cornhole
Take advantage of the crisp autumn air with outdoor games that add a touch of nostalgia and fun. Hayrides offer a charming way for guests to enjoy the scenery, while a friendly game of cornhole, perhaps with custom boards to match your wedding theme, keeps the fun going during cocktail hour or reception.
Photo Booth Ideas: Seasonal Props and Backdrops
A fall-themed photo booth is a guaranteed hit! Set up with seasonal props like plaid blankets, faux pumpkins, and oversized scarves, or even have a backdrop of colorful autumn leaves or a cozy barn scene. Your guests will love snapping festive photos, and you’ll have a treasure trove of candid memories!
Unique Guest Book Alternatives
Ditch the traditional guest book and try something more interactive! Have your guests sign fall-themed items like a wooden slab, pumpkins, or a framed tree illustration where they can “leaf” their fingerprint or message as a keepsake that you’ll cherish forever.
Group Activities: Pumpkin Carving or Cider Tasting
Add a fun, hands-on element to your fall wedding ideas with pumpkin carving stations or a cider-tasting bar! Guests can carve their own pumpkins, creating a unique and festive display, or sample different types of alcoholic or non-alcoholic cider for a seasonal tasting experience they’ll rave about.
Seasonal Wedding Favors
Send your guests home with thoughtful fall-themed wedding favors that celebrate the season and leave a lasting impression.
Edible Favors: Jams, Honey, and Candies
Nothing says “thank you” like a delicious, edible treat! Delight your guests with mini jars of homemade jams, local honey, or seasonal candies like spiced caramels or cinnamon-roasted nuts. These cozy, autumn-inspired goodies are sure to be a hit as well as a sweet reminder of your fall wedding day!
Personalized Items: Coasters, Candles, and Mugs
For a favor with a personal touch, consider custom coasters, scented candles, or cozy mugs featuring your fall wedding date or a meaningful message. These practical gifts will remind your guests of your special day long after the celebration is over, especially as they sip hot cocoa in their new favorite mug!
Eco-Friendly Options: Seed Packets and Plantable Cards
Give your guests a favor that grows with seed packets or plantable cards embedded with wildflower seeds. These eco-friendly options allow guests to plant something beautiful in your honor, helping your love bloom beyond your fall wedding day.
DIY Favors: Crafting with Nature’s Bounty
Tap into the beauty of the season with DIY favors made from natural elements. Think pinecone fire starters, homemade lavender sachets, or bundles of dried herbs. These handcrafted touches add a warm, personal element to your fall wedding ideas and make for charming take-home gifts.
Wedding Photography Tips for Fall
Fall weddings are picture-perfect by nature, with the season’s golden hues and cozy atmosphere setting a stunning backdrop. To make sure your wedding photos capture the full beauty of autumn, here are a few tips to keep in mind.
Best Times for Outdoor Photos: Golden Hour
The magical golden hour, which is just before sunset, provides the most flattering light for outdoor photos. The soft, warm glow highlights the vibrant fall foliage and adds a romantic touch to every shot. It’s the perfect time to sneak away with your photographer for those breathtaking, sun-kissed portraits.
Choosing Locations with Fall Foliage
Make the most of the season’s natural beauty by choosing locations with stunning fall foliage. Whether it’s a park, woodland, or vineyard, the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the changing leaves will create a beautiful and timeless backdrop for your photos.
Incorporating Seasonal Elements in Photos
Add extra charm to your wedding photos by incorporating seasonal elements like pumpkins, rustic fences, and cozy blankets. Posing under a canopy of falling leaves or with a backdrop of twinkling lanterns brings that warm, intimate fall feel into your photos.
Tips for Capturing the Mood of Autumn
Work with your photographer to capture the cozy, romantic mood of autumn. Whether it’s candid moments wrapped in a shawl or strolling through the crisp air hand in hand, focus on those natural, heartfelt moments that reflect the warmth and love of the season.
Budgeting for a Fall Wedding
Fall wedding ideas can be both stunning and affordable if you plan wisely!
Average Costs of Fall Weddings
Fall weddings are often more affordable than summer events but can still vary based on location, size, and style. Expect to budget for the essentials like venue, catering, attire, and décor, with seasonal touches adding to the charm. As you plan your fall wedding ideas, don’t forget that the weather can be a bit unpredictable, but with some fun preparations, you can ensure a fabulous day regardless!
Tips for Cutting Costs: DIY and Vendor Negotiations
Save by taking a DIY approach to certain details like favors, fall wedding décor ideas, or even floral arrangements. You can also negotiate with vendors, especially during the off-peak fall season when they might offer discounts or special packages. If cooler temperatures or unexpected rain clouds threaten, consider renting affordable, stylish tents or cozy outdoor heaters to keep your guests comfortable. Chic DIY umbrellas can add a lovely touch, too!
Prioritizing Expenses: Venue, Attire, and Catering
Focus your budget on the things that matter most to you, whether it’s a beautiful venue, your dream attire, or a delicious meal for your guests. If you’re able to prioritize these key areas, you can trim costs elsewhere without sacrificing the overall experience. Also, be sure to have a backup indoor location ready for your outdoor ceremony so you can seamlessly switch plans if needed.
Utilizing Seasonal Discounts
Take advantage of seasonal discounts on everything from flowers to venues, as many suppliers offer special deals for fall weddings. Booking off-peak dates or negotiating group rates can also help stretch your budget further.
Conclusion
Fall is a magical time to get married, filled with warm colors, cozy vibes, and endless possibilities. Partner with The Sixpence, and our creative team will help you to embrace the beauty of the season and incorporate personal touches, so you can create a wedding that is not only enchanting but uniquely yours. Let the Autumn season of romance inspire you as you plan a celebration filled with fall wedding ideas, love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
