Autumn in the UK is a magical time for a wedding. With its rich red and orange hues, crisp air, and obviously spooky nature, it’s a season that offers unique charm and beauty. Kelly and Alasdair are a couple I have had the joy of working with many times for of their big life events. They hosted a spectacular unique autumn wedding in Stratford-upon-Avon with so many bespoke and handcrafted elements. So, in celebration of their wedding anniversary today, lets look at some of the essential tips to help you plan an autumn wedding and create an unforgettable celebration.
1. Embrace the Season’s Palette
Autumn is known for its stunning colours—think deep oranges, rich burgundies, and muted greens. Use these shades to influence your wedding’s colour scheme. Consider incorporating seasonal flowers like dahlias, chrysanthemums, and sunflowers into your bouquets and arrangements.
2. Choose the Right Venue
Selecting a venue that complements the autumn vibe will make an enormous difference to your photos. Venues with lots of outdoor space will offer the most spectacular backgrounds for your photographer to work with. Older and historic buildings can provide a warm, inviting atmosphere to go along with the autumn aesthetic. It’s worth noting that whilst the gardens or outdoor areas will provide a lot to the look of your photos, looking for locations that offer indoor options in case the weather turns is always worth considering
3. Be Prepared for Weather Changes
UK autumn weather can be unpredictable, so prepare for rain or chilly winds. Consider your outfit choices incorporating layers or warmer options so you make the most of cosy season. Who says you can’t have comfort and style? Having a contingency plan for any outdoor events, such as a marquee or tent is never a bad idea.
4. Seasonal Menu Ideas
Autumn offers a bounty of delicious seasonal produce. Think hearty soups, roasted root vegetables, and comforting desserts like apple pie or spiced cakes. Chef’s love working with seasonal produce and know exactly how to bring the most to your menu so absolutely give your caterer a call to create a menu that highlights the flavours of the season.
5. Seasonal Décor
Okay…. it’s spooky season… and who wouldn’t want more of that at their wedding?!? From pumpkins to pinecones, autumn offers a wealth of natural décor options. Use these elements in your centrepieces, table settings, and even as part of your ceremony backdrop. Candles (or LED equivalents if children are present) can add a cosy glow, making your venue feel inviting as the sun sets earlier.
6. Attire for the Season
Consider the comfort of your wedding party in autumn attire. Brides might opt for long-sleeved dresses or layering with shawls and jackets. Grooms can choose richer fabrics like tweed or velvet. Don’t forget about the footwear; make sure everyone is prepared for potentially muddy or uneven outdoor terrain.
7. Capture the Autumn Light
The shorter days of autumn mean that timing is crucial for your photography. Scheduling your outdoor photos before 4pm will let you take advantage of the softer light. A golden hour shoot around 5:30pm – 6pm can give you beautiful results amidst the vibrant foliage.
8. Create a Cosy Atmosphere
Set the mood with elements that invite warmth and comfort. For your reception, consider fire pits, hot drinks and chocolates for your guests to enjoy. String lights, lanterns, and candles can also add to the ambiance, making your wedding feel both intimate and magical.
9. Plan for Guest Comfort
Make sure guests are comfortable as the temperatures drop. Providing blankets and umbrellas for any outdoor elements will help enormously and Thoughtful touches will ensure they feel cherished and enjoy the day.
10. Choose a Unique Favours
Autumn-themed favours can be both practical and memorable. Think of mini jars of honey, spiced cider mixes, or custom pumpkin candles. These small tokens will remind your guests of the lovely celebration long after it’s over.
Conclusion
An autumn wedding in the UK can be a truly enchanting experience. By embracing the season’s beauty and preparing for its quirks, you can create a day filled with warmth, joy, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re walking through fallen leaves or sharing cozy moments with loved ones, your autumn wedding will surely be a celebration to remember.