Stunning color, changing leaves, warm days and crisp nights…autumn is a picturesque time to celebrate love.  While there are so many enchanting themes to choose from when planning a fall wedding, there are also many elements to take into consideration.  Sure decor, design and your vision are major elements in a wedding, but regardless of the time of year, keeping your guests comfortable should also be a significant factor to consider.  So while we can certainly go on about all of the lovely ways you can embrace fall in your wedding vision, let’s focus on how we can keep your guests “falling” in love with all the thoughtful ways you made them feel important.

Consider the Everchanging Weather

Fall weather can be tricky.  Early autumn still brings warm, sunny days.  The nights, however, can get a bit crisp, leaving your guests a little chilly.  If your guests are not prepared for the change in the weather, they can be left feeling uncomfortable.  Offering pashminas or blankets is a cozy and thoughtful touch.  Sending guests off with a warm mug of hot cocoa is another way to show your guests you are thinking about them.

Consider the Date

The “ber” months are jam packed with holidays and celebrations, so carefully choosing your date is a must for autumn weddings.  Scheduling conflicts can be a huge part of fall wedding preparations.  Between Thanksgiving and various religious holidays through December, there can be a lot of conflicting travel plans, unavailable venues and overcrowded wedding destinations.  Additionally, during the holiday season you may be dealing with higher than normal travel costs. Airfare, hotel rooms and rentals tend to be a bit more pricey during this time. 

If you have your heart set on a date that is close to a holiday, be sure to book your wedding earlier than normal so that your guests can begin planning before their calendars fill up.  Guests will appreciate the fact that they knew about your wedding and were, perhaps, able to get a better price on travel.

Consider a Plan B

An inclement weather plan is always a good idea for any outdoor wedding. During the fall, the desire to have an outdoor wedding amongst the vibrant fall foliage is heightened.  The beauty of the changing leaves and the cooler temps are some of the main reasons people choose to celebrate in autumn.  But, beware because the weather can change in an instant.  Having a Plan B may mean having to move your wedding indoors. Luckily, there is always the option of using a clear tent on the grounds of the venue. This will still allow for all the breathtaking views, even if the weather has turned.  If there is a bit of a chill for your outdoor ceremony, offering blankets, pashminas, warming lamps and hot cocoa or cider is definitely the way to your guest’s hearts. 

Consider Seasonal Elements

If there is any season that brings the vibe, it is fall.  The colors, the flowers, the view…it is hard to find anything that does not invite oohs and aahs.  Watch your vision come to life as you incorporate dark and warm tones into your bouquets, centerpieces, and floral arrangements. Use the sky to your advantage by planning a candlelit ceremony against the setting sun.  Use seasonal fruits and herbs as part of your tablescape to introduce textures and colors that you can only find in the autumn season.  Create your own “golden hour” with the use of lanterns and candles to light the room, as the sun sets earlier, making for a romantic and enchanting atmosphere.  Fall is the quintessential season for all things warm and cozy, so recognizing guest comforts along with your decor is something you do not want to miss; blankets, pashminas, warm drinks and cozy moments.

Choosing a date in the fall to host your wedding is a great first step in your wedding planning journey.  Remember throughout the planning process that the comfort of your guests is just as important as the design. As much as we love an autumn wedding, we truly believe any season can bring an extraordinary backdrop for a wedding celebration.  If you are still on the fence about your wedding date, read our blog; Things to Consider When Choosing Your Wedding Date, for some tips on what to think about before making a decision.