Though the leaves haven’t yet turned brown, there’s definitely a sense that the dawn of autumn is in the air right now. The nights are getting cooler and darker, the dinners heartier, and evolution feels imminent.
A change of season inevitably brings with it new trends, and this is certainly appropriate when discussing weddings. If you’re planning an autumn one, firstly, get your skates on, and secondly, you need to be ready for what the new season has in store for you.
Acknowledge it, folks; if this guide to planning the perfect autumnal nuptials was released a tad earlier in the year, it would have been as easy as seasonal-pear-pie to put these expert tips into practice. But here we are at the start of September, the end of summer, meteorologically speaking, has been declared, and although it may be a bit late to plan an autumn wedding, there’s always next year…
Let’s be honest, though: British seasons being famously predictable as they are (sense the sarcasm, please), we could wake up to a scene straight out of a Christmas card tomorrow. Equally, a sunny day doesn’t seem all that unlikely. Planning, then, is everything where autumn weddings are concerned. Fortunately, we’re here to help with that.
If you’re ready to fall (ahem) in love in autumn, then read on; our 8 expert tips for planning the perfect autumn wedding.
Weather Worries
A change of season means a change in weather, and we’re sure you don’t need reminding. Raincoats at the ready, then; this means a rewriting of the rulebook on traditional wedding attire.
When dressing for an autumn wedding, expect wedding outerwear and layers for brides to be trending. Consider wearing fur, silk, or velvet jackets/shawls to keep up with the hip and fashionable.
When choosing your wedding dress, you should, of course, ensure it’s weather appropriate. Every bride dreads rain on their big day, but you should be ready for it when planning an autumn wedding; open clouds are simply way more likely than in summer. Shop around online for ideas and inspiration before committing to time in the dressing room and on the shop floor. And, above all be prepared to actively embrace a little rain!
Mother Nature’s Colour Palette
During autumn, the change in colour scheme is huge. You could almost praise the season on its clear-as-glass branding, if you were that kind of person. Anyway, when planning your wedding, you should let this shift in hues and tone dictate your theme. Auburn, maroon, dark green…earthy, rich shades take over and we’re well and truly here for it.
Allow your wedding colour palette to mimic the leaves during this season, as they’re always changing. These will add warmth and a sense of synergy to your décor. If you want to be modern (and dare we say, less ‘obvious’) with your colour selection, you should consider using hues such as deep plum and slate gray.
Choose The Perfect Autumn-Friendly Venue
An open-air wedding under an arch of russet-leaved trees would perhaps top the table for autumnal romantic ambience. But we’re in Britain… remember: the seasons have a wicked sense of humour! Opt for a venue that promptly accommodates both indoor and outdoor celebrations. Stately homes, barns, or cosy inns provide a quintessential autumn ambience, while remaining safe from temperamental UK weather.
Let Seasonality Dictate Your Wedding Menu
As the seasons change, so does the selection of food at its best. Fortunately, autumnal food is glorious, rich and abundant, with many of the UK’s most beloved ingredients hit their peak as autumn rolls into view. When choosing food for your autumn wedding, you should opt for whole, rustic, and hearty foods. The season’s harvest brings squash, beetroot, figs, game and more. Harness the power of this amazing produce.
The fruits of the season should be deployed in your wedding cake, too. Autumn cakes tend of be more rustic than their ostentatious summer compadres, with caramel often featured but rarely icing or buttercream. If you opt for a naked cake, decorate it with seasonal figs and think about seasonal flavors such as gingerbread, pumpkin spice and apple spice. Red velvet cake can be a great choice if your wedding theme is channeling the deep red of certain leaves.
Floral Flourishes
Speaking of which; when selecting flowers for your floral arrangements and bouquets, you can go with those autumn colours, as well as those in season. While most flowers bloom year-round, you can choose the following autumn flowers to keep with the theme; garden roses (a great alternative to peonies during the fall season); marigolds which come in festive autumnal colors of red, orange, and gold; and sunflowers, if you want to add a touch of sunshine to your autumn wedding.
You can also use seasonal berries, acorns, and fall foliage in your table décor and floral arrangements to really bring the point home.
Read: The IDEAL guide to choosing the right flowers for every occasion
Cosy Crackling Fires & Lighting
Autumn can be the cosiest time of year if only we encourage it correctly, and nothing says ‘cosy’ better than a venue adorned with fairy lights and gently crackling fireplaces, and guests with sparklers. Cast a magical glow over your event with lanterns and candles, imbuing an intimate, warm mood—definitely handy should Uncle Bob start sharing that story again known to ice over any festive atmosphere.
To make sure your guests are snug, provide warm blankets or pashminas. Consider a ‘cosy corner’ equipped with space heaters. Don’t forget customisable features such as monograms or incorporating wedding colours to make your big day personal.
For an extra touch of magic, consider incorporating ice fountain candles into your décor. These sparkling candles can add a dramatic and enchanting effect, perfect for creating a memorable and visually stunning atmosphere. Whether placed on tables or used as part of a grand entrance, ice fountain candles will surely captivate your guests and add a unique flair to your autumn wedding.
Embrace Seasonal Scents
One often overlooked element that can significantly enhance the atmosphere of your autumn wedding is the use of seasonal scents. Incorporate fragrances that evoke the essence of autumn, such as cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, and vanilla. You can achieve this through scented candles, potpourri, or even essential oil diffusers placed strategically around your venue.
Consider creating a signature scent for your wedding by blending a few of these autumnal aromas. This not only adds to the cosy and inviting ambiance but also creates a sensory experience that your guests will remember long after the day is over. For an extra special touch, you could even provide small scented sachets as wedding favours, allowing your guests to take a piece of your magical day home with them.
The All-Important Bridesmaids & Groomsmen Outfits
For your fall wedding, you should choose outfits with a heavy fabric for the bridesmaids and groomsmen. Your bridal entourage can wear pashminas and boleros to keep warm and harness the power of that layering trend once again. Rich autumnal colours for the groomsmen and bridesmaid’s attire include glimmering metallic and deep jewel shades. Allow the season to dictate your choices and it writes itself.
Let’s be honest, here; regardless of the frankly incredible advice above, if you want to plan your perfect fall wedding, you’re probably better off hiring professional wedding planners. That way, you don’t have to worry about anything except enjoying your big day and creating unforgettable memories!