When it comes to choosing a season for a wedding, autumn is one of the more ideal options. The gentler temperatures, the stunning colors of the leaves, and the overall coziness of the season make for the perfect time to celebrate love and plan the perfect wedding. There are however a few important factors to consider when planning a wedding late in the year. With Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years to dodge on the calendar, be extra considerate with your planning so that your guests have plenty of time to schedule, plan and prepare accordingly!
Weather
As with any season, the weather can be unpredictable. It’s good practice to try and anticipate and plan for the weather to the best of your abilities. However, should the weather turn unexpectedly, embrace it! Prepare for rain with matching umbrellas, have bottled water on hand for an unseasonably warm day, or gift your bridesmaids matching shawls if cooler weather arises. While it’s difficult to sway from the dreamy ideal celebration that is created in your mind, it’s equally as important to remember to go with the flow and enjoy your day, no matter the weather.
Venue
During the cooler months, choosing a venue can be slightly more complicated. Planning for lower temperatures and the comfort of your guests is vital to a successful celebration. Stokely Event Center offers the ideal cozy, unique, and inviting space for your wedding reception. With games, a sound system, kitchen access, and a cleanup crew ready to take away your stress at the end of the day… it doesn’t get much better.
Decor
Once you have chosen your venue, it’s best to start thinking as early as possible about your plans regarding decorations and the overall ambiance. The cooler seasons allow for an entirely different mood and general aesthetic as opposed to the warmer seasons. Think cozy, warm, and welcoming as the temperature drops and the holidays are right around the corner.
If your celebration falls closer to Thanksgiving, consider decor that will complement the current weather and holiday season. This not only makes finding appropriate decorations easier, but it also creates warm memories and associations for years to come.
Fall weddings are the perfect opportunity to utilize everything comfortable and cozy. Candles, wreaths, pine cones, gourds, sunflowers, and cranberries are great seasonal options for your autumn wedding. It’s also the perfect opportunity to string twinkle lights above your tables or even your ceremony to create a more intimate and warm aesthetic.
Food
It’s not just the decor, and temperatures that change along with the seasons… but your menu should also shift to reflect the autumn spirit. Consider hot ciders and hot chocolate during your cocktail hour… and warm up your reception by offering soup or chili. Have fun with this opportunity to branch outside of typical wedding menus while simultaneously warming up your guests and creating sweet memories. Utilize flavors such as pumpkin and cinnamon to usher in the warmth of the season and the spirit of love.
With thoughtful planning, your fall wedding will be Pinterest worthy! Stop by Stokely Event Center if you’re interested in checking out the space or booking a date for your event! We can’t wait to celebrate with you!