As wedding planners serving the Charlottesville and Washington, DC region, we know that a fall wedding here is more than a single day…it’s an experience. The season itself beckons guests to slow down, savor the scenery, and embrace the warmth and romance that autumn brings. For many of our couples, especially those hosting destination weddings, creating a thoughtful weekend itinerary becomes the perfect way to welcome loved ones and showcase the beauty of the region.

Whether your guests are traveling from across the country or simply driving in from nearby cities, a curated wedding weekend itinerary sets the tone for celebration and connection. If you want to give your guests the full experience, we have outlined a few ideas to help you design a weekend that’s as elegant and inviting as your wedding day itself.

Friday: Welcome With Warmth

Afternoon Arrival & Check-In
Encourage guests to arrive early enough to enjoy the stunning fall scenery. Many local inns, boutique hotels, and vineyard properties offer cozy accommodations that capture the charm of the season; think fireplaces, mountain views, and crisp air scented with harvest. Provide a personalized welcome note or gift bag with local treats, a weekend schedule, and recommendations for exploring the area.

Evening Welcome Gathering
A relaxed welcome event is a beautiful way to kick off the festivities. Consider a fireside cocktail hour, a casual farm-to-table dinner under twinkling lights, or a cider tasting surrounded by autumn colors. The goal is simple: create a space where guests can unwind, mingle, and ease into the celebratory spirit of the weekend.

Saturday: Celebrate In Style

Morning Exploration
Before the ceremony, suggest a few local experiences guests can enjoy on their own. In Charlottesville, a leisurely morning of apple picking, a stop at a farmers’ market, or a scenic drive through the Blue Ridge Mountains sets a delightful tone. For DC guests, a stroll along tree-lined streets or a visit to a local fall festival captures the essence of the season.

Afternoon & Evening Celebration
Your wedding day should flow seamlessly from the heartfelt ceremony to the grand celebration. Allow your guests to revel in the beauty of fall, whether that’s a vineyard ceremony framed by changing leaves or a city soirée overlooking golden-hour skylines. Thoughtful details like warm signature cocktails, candlelight, and seasonal floral design will elevate the atmosphere and immerse everyone in the romance of autumn.

Sunday: Farwell and Reflection

Brunch Send-Off
A farewell brunch is the perfect finale to your wedding weekend. Keep it light and elegant, think mimosas, warm pastries, and soft music. It’s a lovely opportunity to thank guests for traveling and to share final moments together before goodbyes begin.

Optional Sunday Activities
For those extending their stay, offer a few recommendations that highlight the season such as a scenic wine tasting or brewery visit, a hike through fall foliage or a cozy afternoon exploring small town shops and cafes. These moments give your guests a chance to linger and take home lasting memories of the region’s charm.

Designing the Perfect Fall Itinerary

A well-planned itinerary enhances the guest experience and tells a story that extends beyond the wedding day. It’s a reflection of your hospitality and the essence of your love story, rooted in beauty, warmth, and connection.

We always encourage couples to blend thoughtful structure with a sense of ease. Offer guests enough guidance to feel cared for, but leave space for discovery and spontaneity. After all, the magic of fall in Virginia and DC lies in those in-between moments, the golden light filtering through the trees. 

Fall weddings are breathtaking and we are blessed to have views that have such an impact on a couple’s decor, ambiance and experience.  If you are getting married in the Charlottesville area, we urge you to check out some of our favorite spots. Take a look at our blog, Falling In Love With the View.for some of the most awe-inspiring locations Virginia has to offer.