Fall is one of the most popular times to plan a wedding, and for good reason. From color schemes and floral arrangements, to cakes and the outdoor foliage, the possibilities are endless. June, July and August have long been the favored wedding months, but that time of year is slowly being edged out as the most popular wedding season by September, October and November. With this switch of popularity has come creative, out-of-the-box inspiration for an unforgettable autumn wedding.

Color Palette

When it comes to the fall colors, Halloween’s deep jewel tones are often the first that come to mind, yet there are numerous color combinations that will be sure to make your wedding pop. Incorporating shades of blush, Pantone’s color of the year, and burgundy provide an elegant twist to the classic fall color schemes of oranges, reds and yellows. Blush can be incorporated into flower arrangements while burgundy can provide the perfect contrast being used in bridal party attire. Another popular combo for a new age twist on fall hues would be navy, gold and yellow. The variations of this color combo are limitless and are an ideal wedding palette because it is versatile and can be perfect for multiple seasons. Incorporating navy with gold accessories to the bridal party’s attire can create a range of themes, from classic to rustic. Keep in mind your goals in terms of style, formality, and mood and be sure your color palette supports those elements.

Picking the Perfect Venue

Choosing the perfect venue for a wedding ceremony and reception is one of the biggest pieces of the puzzle when it comes to wedding planning. Gorgeous natural foliage and temperate weather makes fall an ideal time for an outdoor wedding. Vineyards, barns, estates and parks that sit on land lined with trees make for an enchanting fall wedding location. Keep in mind if the wedding is going to be outdoors, that your guests will probably be comfortable for an outdoor afternoon ceremony, but that temperatures will drop come the evening. Offering cozy blankets or having outdoor heaters where guests will be relaxing adds a lovely setup for an outdoor ceremony/reception. Playing on the season, having fire pits for guests to sit around is a creative, fun way to keep your guests warm in chilly fall weather. There are loads of mobile apps and websites that can act as a “digital wedding planner,” assisting in finding not only a fine venue, but photographers, invitations, and hair/makeup as well.

Choosing Tasty Menu Items

When planning a menu to have a quintessentially “fall feel,” apples and pears could be a prevalent item in courses. Getting creative with menu items is always a good idea, straying from the typical chicken, fish and pasta options will give the wedding an extra wow factor. Incorporating comfort food in the chilly weather is key to the planning of the menu; think soups, pastas, meats and roasted, savory seasonal vegetables. Consider a “grown up” version of grilled cheese and tomato soup as an appetizer presented with a shot of tomato soup and bite-sized grilled cheese offered aside as a mock crouton. S’mores and caramel apples are fall essentials that will make for a playful addition to dessert options. Consider hot mulled wine or a warm cider cocktail as well. Be creative and work with the caterer to create a tasty, thoughtful and autumn-inspired spread.

A fall wedding offers an excellent opportunity to spotlight your creativity and style in incorporating intimate, cozy and romantic elements. Celebrate the season throughout the big day and create an event that guests will find heartwarming and memorable.