10 of My Favorite Fall Wedding Trends

By Samantha Bernstein

So a little fun fact about me: fall is my favorite season...Right after summer that is!!! There’s just something about the beautiful colors of the trees, the crisp feel of the air, the smell of pumpkin spice, and the delicious crunch of leaves beneath my feet that makes me smile from ear to ear. Furthermore, while we often think of spring and summer as romantic, fall is supremely underrated in this category. With that said, here is a list of some of my favorite wedding trends for fall.

1. Leaves and wood as decor

​The possibilities are endless! Think leaves instead of petals for the flower girl to throw, a chuppah or wedding arch made from birch tree branches, environmentally friendly confetti, leaf centerpieces (especially perfect for those with flower allergies), or a leafy table runner. Feel free to get creative!

2. An orchard wedding venue

​One of my favorite fall activities is apple picking. Capture the magic of this moment by selecting a beautiful orchard, or even a farm, for your special days. Just think of all those amazing photo opportunities amidst the rows of apple trees.

3. Earthy and wine toned inspired bridesmaids gowns

Photo by Sarah Elizabeth Photography

​Forget the pastels, earth tones are in! Neutral and posh to go along with your woodsy fall setting or pack a punch! That Tawny Port burgundy color is so elegant and just as rich as the real thing! Side note: When we can all travel again, put Portugal on your travel list. You wont be sorry and if you haven't given Port a try....try a vintage Port first. That is more similar to red wine (IMHO) than a Tawny Port. Tawny Ports have more of a "mapley" taste which is also kinda fall-tastic right now. I recommend Grahams 10 or 20 year. You will thank me later!

4. Wedding pies

​There is honestly nothing better than a piping hot apple or pumpkin pie! When you sub out a cake for a pie, not only do you please your guests’ sweet tooths, you also get points for individuality and you can save a fair amount of money.

5. Outdoor photo ops

​Take advantage of the décor that nature provides and take your photos outside! There are so many amazing ideas for photos, but some of my favorites are leaf pile photos, photos with a forest background, and the classic leaves falling (or more accurately bridal party throwing leaves) photo.

6. Dried flower bouquets and boutonnieres

​A beautiful way to bring in the florals while still feeling seasonally appropriate. Plus, dried flowers are often a cheaper alternative to fresh flowers!

7. Blankets for an outdoor ceremony

​Keep your guests cozy by providing blankets. Outdoor fall weddings can get cold, so it’s best to be prepared and anticipate your guests needs. This way they aren’t distracted by shivering and can more easily focus on the warmth of your love!

8. Gourds or pumpkins as table cards

​I’m a huge fan of untraditional table cards. I love this idea of using those tiny gourds and pumpkins, purchased either from a pumpkin patch or even your local grocery store. In addition to looking super cute at your reception, guests can take them home and enjoy the fall beauty for weeks after.

9. Hay bale furniture and decor

​Who doesn’t love hayrides? Not the typical transportation mode you were thinking?? Incorporate this fall fan favorite activity with hay bale seating at your ceremony or reception. This alternative can easily add a beautiful rustic-chic vibe to your special day.

10. Fall flavored cocktails

​Hard apple cider? Yum! A hot toddy? Perfectly on theme! Spiked hot chocolate? Such an improvement on a childhood favorite! Feel free to get as creative or traditional as you want with your signature cocktails, just be sure to incorporate your favorite tastes of fall, whatever those may be!