Seasonal Planning Ideas

Everything about Fall wedding celebrations elicits feelings of coziness, warmth, community. So many couples choose their special date so they can enjoy an Autumn-themed ceremony... and why not?? Gathering together just seems natural at the turn of the season.

Enhance your ceremony plans with a few of our favorite seasonal ideas, buildling on the gifts of Autumn!

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Gratitude - Tis the season of Thanksgiving! Build on the inherent theme through readings, program mentions, your vows and toasts, favors, decor & more!

*expressing thankfulness to family & friends

*honoring your soulmate, the love you share and the relationship you're building together

*celebrating heroes of the LGBTQ+ community

*interactive keepsake station - invite your guests to jot a word or phrase about gratitude on a stone, scroll or in a memory book - a keepsake for you and your new spouse to treasure for years to come!

Creating the Coziness - Finding ways to enhance your reception venue with intimate & inviting cornerspaces, and including various elements & decor that evoke a sense of nostalgia will prompt your guests to not only celebrate Your Special Day, but also to relax and feel at home. Make the most of all the season offers!

*choose comfy seating as much as possible, and arrange in small groups to encourage cozy conversations.  Remember the fluffy pillows, esp those with seasonal imagery & sayings!

*drape quilts over some of the reception chairs, or place blanket racks conveniently nearby
(thrift shops can be a great place to find gently used crocheted quilts!)

*over-sized games - add the lawn-size Jenga or Connect 4 into some of the cornerspaces of your venue... Chalkboards or craft stations for creating interactive wedding favors or keepsakes are also an easy way to bring people together!

*remember the other games too! Randomly placed decks of cards, sets like pick-up sticks or jacks, checkers and even chess are another way to draw guests together.

*hay bales, pumpkins, flannel - accent the corner spaces to add to the mood!

*polaroid or disposable cameras - setting cameras throughout the reception venue, and in the cozy cornerspaces, invites your guests to capture those special moments together. Smart phone pics and hashtags are convenient and wonderful too... but going old-school with cameras can inspire playfulness and a unique vibe

*incorporating the vintage - antique tableware or decoratives evoke a sense of nostalgia: one more way to build that sense of coziness and connection. It's the season of gathering & community - make the most of it!

Those pumpkins, gourds & warming spices! -Yes, please: bring on the capuccino bar, the spiked apple cider, the slivers of freshly baked dessert pies!

*using gourds and pumpkins as serving dishes and decor accents

*aromatic decor also sets an inviting mood, and pleasing scents actually help make your event that much more memorable!

*interactive hot beverage stations, and/or offerings at the bar for coffee drinks & seasonal faves. Remember the mocktails such as cranberry spritzer or warm spiced cider or punch!

*dessert beyond traditional wedding cake: a variety of pies, homemade cookies, cream-swirled cake rolls, even Fall-flavored ice cream such as pumpkin/chocolate chip, maple walnut, or ginger molasses... S'mores stations or chocolate fountains with s'mores fixins...

*savory is delicious too: squashes and other seasonal veggies provide a delectable base for creating savory pies, soups, sides and sauces as part of your catered dinner selections

*consider local sources for your culinary offerings - supporting local farmers is another meaningful tradition of the harvest season!

That Rich Palette of Colors - Make the most of blooms from the garden, as well as hues in your culinary selections, and your decor... to spotlight the palette of the season!

*contrasting colors such as deep plum, organic olive green and lively sunflower yellow bring out the drama, magic and romance of Autumn

*textures, as well as colors, evoke a sense of the season: remember branches, bark, stones, seasoned wood, dried gourds and other related elements as you create tabletop decor and accent pieces throughout your venue. Mix and match the colors of each element to add artistic flair and charm.

The Metaphor of Light - As the season of Fall settles in, we all notice the changing hours of daylight... Some of us lean into that cradling sensation of the darkness that surrounds; some of us mindfully hold onto light as a beacon for the days leading back to springtime. -It's a natural basis for thematic elements to include throughout Your Special Day.

*twinkle or theme-shaped strands of hanging lights throughout your ceremony and reception venue

*lanterns and candles - faux candles are long-lasting and a safe alternative! Consider adding burlap, kerchiefs or flannel as fabric accents

*bubble machines - even during hours of dusk or darkness, strategically placed bubble machines can send little beacons of scintillating light throughout your venue space. That iridescent nature of bubbles is captivating, engaging and brings a delightful vibe to the moment!

*mixing elements: adding decorative pumpkins, hay bales, baskets of apples, branches and other items along with lighting accents builds on the seasonal theme

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The gifts of Autumn are plentiful, sensual and diverse. Enjoy imagining different ways to incorporate varied elements into your celebration, allowing the season to provide a backdrop to all Your Special Day represents! Best Wishes!

Autumn weddings offer a unique opportunity to embrace the season's rich and diverse flavors, creating a warm and memorable culinary experience for your guests. Many couples, in fact, choose the date of their wedding celebration simply so they can offer Fall flavors on their menu, evoking a sense of cozy gatherings and holiday connections. From hearty soups to unforgettable spiced desserts, here's a guide to help you select the perfect autumnal foods for Your Special Day.

Appetizers: Warm and Welcoming

Start your Fall-themed wedding on a cozy note with a selection of delicious appetizers.

a. Butternut Squash Soup Shooters: A small cup of velvety butternut squash soup with a dash of nutmeg is a delightful way to welcome your guests.

b. Miniature Pumpkin Tarts: These bite-sized tarts filled with savory or sweet pumpkin filling are sure to tickle the taste buds.

c. Creamy Cauliflower Soup topped with almond & thyme gremolata

d. Roasted Pumpkin Soup served in mini-pumpkin shells: Flavored with leeks, apples, maple syrup and spices; poured in to decorative pumpkin shells for serving and you'll have a sure winner with your guests!

e. Caramelized Onion and Brie Crostinis: The combination of sweet caramelized onions and creamy Brie on crispy crostinis is a crowd-pleaser.

Main Course: Hearty Harvest Feasts

For the main course, opt for hearty dishes that highlight the bountiful flavors of Fall.

a. Roasted Turkey or Duck: A classic choice, roast turkey or duck with seasonal herbs and spices embodies the essence of the season.

*Roasted Turkey, Citrus & Herbs
*Succulent Turkey, Root Vegetables, Ginger & Garlic Stir-Fry
*Roast Duck with Orange Glaze
*Elegant Duck Confit - slow roasted then briefly sizzled for a mouth-watering crisp

b. Beef Short Ribs: Tender, slow-cooked short ribs with a rich red wine reduction will satisfy even the most discerning palates.

c. Creamy Fettuccine with Brussels Sprouts & Mushrooms is a great option for your vegetarian selection. Easily made vegan as well!

d. Classic Chicken Pot Pie with Leeks and Thyme

e. Prawn and Sweet Potato Noodle Stir-fry: Loaded with Fall vegetables, coconut sweet chili sauce and garnished with coriander

Sides: A Taste of Autumn's Bounty

Complement your main course with delectable side dishes that build on your seasonal theme:

a. Maple-Glazed Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, parsnips, and brussels sprouts drizzled with maple syrup make for a delectable side dish, tantalizing with a hint of both the sweet and the savory.

b. Wild Mushroom Stuffing: Elevate your side game with a stuffing featuring a medley of wild mushrooms, crunchy nuts and herbs.

c. Kale Salad with Roasted Sweet Potato & Black Beans

d. Cranberry-Orange Relish: This tangy and zesty relish adds a burst of color and flavor to your wedding meal... and immediately evokes a sense of the holidays.

e. Pumpkin Apple Muffins: Flavored with applesauce, allspice, cloves and nutmeg and topped with a light butter/brown sugar crumble, this sweet side pairs well with a bold & savory main course

f. Butternut Squash & Chickpea Mac & Cheese - yes, please!

Beverages:

Keep your guests cozy with a selection of seasonal beverages:

a. Hot Apple Cider: Served with cinnamon sticks, hot apple cider is a comforting & nostalgic choice.

b. Spiked Hot Chocolate: For an adult twist, offer a spiked hot chocolate station with liqueurs such as Bailey's and peppermint schnapps.

c. Autumn Spice Smoothie: Apple cider, pumpkin, banana and cinnamon blended to perfection... a tasty, chilled drink for children & adults!

d. Coffee Bar: Offer your guests a variety to choose from; consider take-away mugs as your party keepsake!

Accent Desserts: Indulging in Seasonal Delights

Consider a mini-dessert bar to indulge your guests with a variety of options throughout your reception festivities. Keep portions small if you plan on also serving a signature Wedding Cake a little later during your celebration.:

a. Pumpkin or Pecan Pie: Classics, these simple yet well-loved treats, served with a dollop of freshly-made whipped cream.  Serve as shooters to keep portions small... Mmm, mmm!

b. Apple Crisp: Warm apple crisp topped with a crunchy oat topping and a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a crowd-pleasing treat.

c. Cinnamon Snickerdoodles: Rolled in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before baking, providing a sweet & warming flavor. They're known for their soft, chewy centers and slightly crispy edges. An excellent choice if you have several children on your guest list.

d. Fig and Walnut Cookies: Chopped dried figs and toasted walnuts add a delightful texture and earthy sweetness to these cookies. They're perfect for those who enjoy a more sophisticated combination of flavors.

Your Crowning Wedding Cake: Enjoy All Your Diverse & Delectable Options!

Spiced Apple: A spiced apple cake, often paired with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, delivers a delightful blend of sweetness and warm spices.

Pumpkin Spice: Add layers of sumptuous cream cheese frosting and you've captured the essence of the season perfectly.

Caramel: Whether a caramel-infused sponge or a caramel drizzle, you can choose from a variety of added ingredients such as hazelnuts, fruit, chocolate or cappuccino.

Maple: Maple syrup is a hallmark of Fall cuisine. A maple-flavored cake can be accompanied by flavors like pecan or walnut for a delightful crunch.

Gingerbread: Gingerbread cakes are a classic choice for Autumn weddings. They are spiced with ginger, cinnamon, and molasses, creating a warm and nostalgic flavor, perfect for a cozy Fall wedding.

Chocolate Espresso: For those who prefer a rich and indulgent option... The addition of espresso enhances the chocolate flavor, making it perfect for cooler weather.

Cranberry Orange: Tangy cranberry and zesty orange create a vibrant and refreshing flavor combination that contrasts with the richness of traditional autumn desserts.

Fig and Honey: Figs are in season during the Fall! This moist, unique blend boasts a unique and stylish flavor.

Pear and Almond: An almond cake with poached pear filling provides a delicate, fruity, and nutty combination.

Toasted Coconut: While coconut may not be a traditional autumn flavor, toasting brings out a warm, nutty taste that can complement other seasonal elements.

(And remember that these flavors can be combined with various fillings, frostings, and decorative elements to create a wedding cake that not only tastes amazing but also aligns with your wedding theme and style. Consult with your baker to customize your wedding cake and make it a true reflection of your Autumn wedding vision.)

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Planning an Autumn-themed wedding allows you to take advantage of the season's rich and diverse flavors. With warm and welcoming appetizers, hearty main courses, a tempting variety of sides, indulgent desserts and inviting beverages, your wedding can embrace the essence of this rich season of bounty and gratitude. By selecting the perfect autumnal foods, you'll create an unforgettable culinary experience for your guests and ensure your wedding is a celebration to remember.

Easy, Fun & Budget-friendly:  Buy mason jars in bulk and DIY your own customized tags as you like. (Colored string and burlap, a tiny embellishment, a pre-printed sticker on a pre-cut tag design and you're done!) Fill jars with your choice of autumn-inspired treats: caramel popcorn... deconstructed wedding cake... cookie bake mix (oatmeal raisin with walnuts, please!)... hot cocoa mix... fall-colored candies... s'more kits...

Consider purchasing small edible favors that are already pre-packaged, or make your own by canning in advance: apple butter, fresh honey, maple syrup, pumpkin shaped sugar cookies, mixed coffee beans... Or get more sophisticated and certainly memorable with flavors such as Red Pear Lavender Jam or Hot PepperJelly: yummy delights that are sure to make your guests feel warm & cozy, from the inside-out!

Lots of Pet Lovers on your guest list? Fill jars with pet treats and create a sign with your own furry friend's photo: "My folks got hitched! Please take a treat for your own critter babies!"

Use the filled jar idea... or instead use, mini-buckets or rainbow colored kerchiefs - pack these with custom made tic tac toe games: Make your own using pipe cleaners (to make the board) and small tokens of your choice. Either purchase at a craft store and embellish with paints, fabric or markers... choose differently colored buttons... or pick out small stones and mark them using an indelible pen with you & your partner's initials. If you'd like the board more permanent, consider gluing ribbon or fabric on a small square of burlap, then rolling this up to tuck in to the kerchief. An adorable take-away gift for each guest, inviting them to remember to take fun & playfulness home with them!

Outdoor Reception? Gather several throws or small quilts (either in bulk online, have fun thrifting for lightly used treasures... or crochet your own.) DIY a chalkboard sign "To Have & To Hold... In Case You Get Cold..." Tie each blanket in a roll with colored ribbon to match your ceremony colors and add a customized tag so guests know these are favors to keep!

Search online for 'Fall pumpkin favors' or 'Autumn Leaf decor' to add to your inspiration and build on your theme. The possibilities are bountifully endless!