While nature sheds its summer skin, Autumn gets busy showing off its colorful pallet. With all these gorgeous colors it’s no wonder the fall season is one of the most favorite times of the year for brides to pick for their weddings. The popular wedding site The Knot confirms that September and October are the most popular months to get married and November is third (tied with April).

If you’re engaged to get married or helping to plan a wedding, here are some ways to add a little of this fall magic to make the big day unforgettable.

1. Paint the day with the colors of Fall

The vibrant hues of burnt orange, deep red, gold, and rich browns provide the perfect palette for an autumn wedding. Don’t be afraid to try non-traditional fall colors for contrast too. When selecting colors for a fall wedding, rich, warm colors always work well. Use nature as inspiration for classic colors or pop a non-traditional color into the scheme and blow the guest’s mind!

TIP: To add a softer touch, consider muted colors like dusty rose, champagne, or even mauve mixed with deeper fall colors. This contrast creates a timeless and elegant look!

2. Fall Bridal Gowns – a season for texture 

Fall is a lovely season for luxurious fabrics and layers and is a time of year that lends itself to lace, satin, velvet, and embroidery. Heavier silk or embroidered fabrics like brocade are excellent choices. Slightly cooler air means the bride can look for something with sleeves or pair the gown with a chic, lace-trimmed cape. But remember, fall weather can be fickle. Consider long-sleeved dresses or higher necklines to provide a little bit of warmth for those outdoor photoshoots. For brides who prefer strapless or sleeveless gowns a stylish wrap or shawl made from the softest cashmere or a lace jacket can keep the chill away.

TIP: Fall brides should consider off-white shades like champagne, ivory, bush or even soft blue to complement their fall color scheme.

3. Nature is your backdrop

Whether the wedding is held in a rustic barn, vineyard, or garden surrounded by vibrant foliage, autumn’s landscape provides a breathtaking and organic backdrop for a fall ceremony and reception. When the venue is outdoors, the cooler temperatures are ideal for alfresco dining and dancing. 

TIP: Enhance the romantic setting with rustic touches like wooden décor, lanterns, and seasonal fruits, pumpkins, and gourds. Imagine the charm of a cozy outdoor setting with twinkling lights, flickering candles, cozy shawls and blankets for the guests, and a seasonal menu with warming foods teaming together to create a memorable event. 

4. Seasonal Décor

Fall is the season of abundance and so it is with the many decorative possibilities it offers right from the natural surroundings. Elements like fallen leaves, acorns, and gourds can be used throughout the wedding venue. Create an inviting atmosphere for your guests with candles, lanterns, and warm lighting. Make sure your cake is also part of the theme. Incorporate spice, pumpkin, or caramel flavors topped with seasonal fruits or rich buttercream. Add a rustic touch with a naked cake dripping in caramel and adorned with berries, figs, and leaves. 

TIP: Welcome guests with mini jars of fall themed gifts like mini jars of apple butter, pumpkin spiced candles, or caramel apple kits.

5. Seasonal Culinary Delights

Incorporate fall’s bounty into the wedding meal with hearty entrees like roasted chicken and root veggies, and crusty, warm bread. Add fall flavors from apples, cinnamon, maple syrup, and clove to dessert options. Speaking of desserts, besides cake, use the occasion to serve delicious fall pies and apple cider donuts. 

TIP: A wedding is the perfect time to create a signature fall cocktail like apple cider mimosas or a spiced pumpkin martini!

6. Photos will be memorable

The beauty of the autumn landscape creates a picturesque setting for wedding photography. The golden light of fall will brighten outdoor portraits and the vibrant colors of the leaves will provide stunning contrast. One-of-a-kind shots include tree-lined paths, pumpkin patches, and fields of corn or hay.

TIP: For extra drama, consider a post-ceremony photoshoot just before sunset when the lighting is soft and the sky is warm and glowing.

8. Fall-friendly wedding favors

Surprising wedding guests with thoughtful, fall-themed favors like mini pumpkins, candles, local artisan goods, or cozy blankets is a charming way to thank them for being part of the big day. Edible favors like caramel apples, local syrup, or honey can bring a sweet touch to the end of the wedding. 

TIP: Personalize your favors by adding a heartfelt note or your wedding date and make it a cherished keepsake.

Fall is an exciting and rich season for a wedding! From nature’s colors and textures, to cool, crisp air, and seasonal foods and treats, an autumn wedding offers endless possibilities for creating a truly magical day. So, embrace all that fall has to offer and you’ll ensure that the big day is not only stunning but also filled with warmth and love. Do you know what else fall is great for?

Celebrating the soon-to-be bride in your life! Check out our Fall Bridal Collection sale now for romantic and luxurious silk gifts for the bride (and bridesmaids too)! See you in the next blog!

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Deb Fries works with the Julianna Rae team to offer the best shopping experience for quality silk and cotton sleepwear while also writing for the blog at Juliannarae.com.