Autumn represents a beautiful time of change, serving as a poignant reminder that endings can lead to beautiful new beginnings. As the leaves transition from green to a kaleidoscope of amber, crimson and gold, the season embodies renewal and fresh starts. From rich color palettes to cozy décor, there are countless ways to infuse your special day with the essence of fall. Here are 9 expert tips to guide you in creating a stunning autumn-inspired wedding.
1. Choose a Seasonal Color Palette
The palette you choose can beautifully reflect the essence of autumn. Melody Hall from Events By Melody advises, “Use rich autumn colors that can be reflected in everything from the floral arrangements to table settings. Utilize candles in various heights to create a warm, inviting glow. Incorporating candlelight into your fall wedding can enhance the ambiance and create a cozy and memorable experience.” Consider deep reds, burnt oranges, and earthy neutrals for an elegant touch.
For a more unique approach, Allie Robyn of Alexandra Robyn Photo + Design encourages couples to explore creative color palettes. “I love to use unconventional fall colors in wedding design. An ombre pink wedding which was a really fun way to approach fall.”
2. Include Pampas Grass
"One way to infuse an air of elegance and grandeur into your autumn wedding is by incorporating pampas grass as a fall floral element," states Candace Holmstadt of 651 Studio Floral. “Its feathery plumes and neutral tones create a stunning, natural backdrop that adds both softness and sophistication to the celebration.” Additionally, consider pairing pampas grass with seasonal blooms like dahlias and chrysanthemums to enhance the fall vibe.
3. Incorporate Dried and Textured Elements
Pampas grass has become a trendy choice for fall wedding décor, but it may not be for everyone. Kristina Britz from Betty’s Love suggests, "If the boho style isn't your vibe, try using wheat stalks, dried bunny tails, eucalyptus and cattails in sleek apothecary bud vases across your tables.” Lily Hansen of HappiLily Events echoes this sentiment suggesting, "Incorporating dried and textured elements to floral arrangements and your day will feel perfectly fall and timeless all at once.”
4. Offer Guests Cozy Elements to Keep Them Warm
As temperatures drop, keeping your guests comfortable is essential. “Provide guests with blankets if you plan to have an outdoor ceremony or spend any time outdoors for the reception,” recommends Anna Hiebert from Rush Creek Golf Club. Cozy blankets not only offer warmth but also enhance the intimate atmosphere of your celebration.
5. Curate a Seasonal Menu
Food plays a significant role in setting the tone for your wedding. Kailey Levin from Windows at Marquette notes, “Opting for a butternut squash or maple sweet potato side, or including cranberries on your salad is a way to not only highlight seasonal ingredients but also create a cozy, festive vibe perfect for a fall wedding!” Consider a seasonal menu featuring warm, hearty dishes that highlight autumn flavors, such as a harvest-inspired salad, wild mushroom risotto or braised short ribs.
6. Utilize Antlers
Leanne Kolodziej from Jewelry by Johan recommends enhancing your décor with antlers. “Deer are an ever-present reality in Minnesota, and incorporating their naturally-shed antler can be a creative, rustic way to inject autumn vibes into your wedding. You can go big and include deer antler in your wedding rings, or try a subtle look with antler accessories like cuff links, pendants, charm beads, and tie clips. These also make excellent and personal gifts for the bridesmaids and groomsmen! At Jewelry by Johan, we make our antler jewelry with naturally-shed antler samples, but we will make custom pieces using antler you've harvested as well.”
7. Embrace Nature As Your Backdrop
Take full advantage of the stunning autumn scenery by using nature as your ultimate wedding design. Carrie Scarfino from Cragun's Resort suggests, “Utilize a tree, vine wall, or beautiful leaves as your ceremony arch.” Katie Griess from Belle Âme Vineyard agrees sharing, “We absolutely love fall florals at the vineyard! Their rich, vibrant colors beautifully complement the 360° views of the stunning fall foliage in the bluffs surrounding our valley. Whether you're exchanging vows or celebrating with loved ones, the natural beauty of autumn creates a breathtaking backdrop for your special day.”
8. Create Signature Scents
It's important to engage all of the senses when developing your wedding design. To truly elevate your fall celebration, Jenna Culley of Jenna Culley Events and Linen Effects recommendscreating a signature scent that blends spicy, woodsy, and musky notes and placing them throughout the venue. "They can be placed anywhere from bathrooms, to entrances and welcome tables. Using as many of the five senses as you can at your event provides an experience that guests will always remember. However, doing this can be tricky because people can be very sensitive to smells. That's why we only recommend using all-natural essential oils instead of artificial fragrances like candles or air fresheners." (And if you didn’t know, Linen Effects offers diffuser rentals and can help you craft a custom scent!)
9. Extend the Theme to Invitations
Don’t forget to extend your autumn theme to your invitation suite. “Incorporate autumn warm or muted tones into your invitation suite, along with illustrative elements to evoke a warm, romantic feel," suggests Katie Murphy from Katie Murphy Design & Stationery. Consider featuring a custom crest that reflects a meaningful location, such as where the couple got engaged, alongside beautiful autumn foliage, utilizing techniques like thermography in deep green and digital printing.
10. Elevate Attire
For grooms, suits in deep shades like copper, navy, and emerald green are gaining popularity. Vivian Milbern from Milbern Clothing notes, “These bold yet sophisticated choices not only complement the colors of fall but also elevate the overall look. Some grooms are stepping up their fashion game by pairing their suits with floral ties that mirror the bouquets and invitations of the wedding, creating a beautifully coordinated appearance.”
Brides can enhance their looks by choosing gowns that reflect autumn's rich hues and textures. "Small details, such as brides matching their shoes to the groom's outfit, can also make a significant impact," suggests Milbern. Whether it’s a dress adorned with intricate lace or a simple gown paired with a striking fall-themed bouquet, these thoughtful details contribute to a cohesive wedding aesthetic.
Main Photo by Alexandra Robyn Photo + Design
