When it comes to weddings, no season is more trend-driven — or more susceptible to unintentional kitsch — than fall. With so much seasonal symbolism to choose from — foliage, pumpkins, scarecrows, apples, cider, spice, burlap, cornucopias — it’s easy to go over the top and turn what was meant to be a festive occasion into a carnival. Here are some things to keep in mind for a fabulous (and foolproof) fall wedding:

 

1. Skip the Singing Scarecrows.

Be whimsical if you like, sure, but unless you’re trying to purposely over do it by hosting your wedding in a pumpkin patch with singing scarecrows as escorts, you may want to go easy on the autumnal symbolism. This doesn’t mean you have to institute an embargo on pumpkins and scarecrows. It just means you might want to err on the side of subtlety: Think a smattering of pumpkins and gourds rather than an avalanche. As you will read in our upcoming 2018 issue of Westchester/Hudson Valley Weddings, the latest trend (and mantra) for weddings is: “Less Is More.”

 

2. Plan for What Fall Is — Not for What You Want It to Be.

Fall is not just Halloween and Thanksgiving; the season begins with the autumnal equinox on September 22. If you’re marrying in Westchester or the Hudson Valley in September (and, if you’re reading this, you’re probably thinking about next September), the leaves may just be starting to change and the grass will still be mostly green. You also have a more-than-average chance of having uncomfortably warm — or even hot — weather (as I write this, it’s 5:30 pm, the sun is shining brightly, and the outside temp is 86 degrees). Though you may have your heart set on crunchy leaves underfoot as your guests sip hot apple cider, they’re more likely to be fanning themselves in the hot sun and daydreaming about a cold iced tea or lemonade. Plan accordingly; you can change up the beverages to suit the weather!

 

3. If You Want “Quintessential Autumn,” Marry in October.

While there’s no guarantee that you’ll have chilly, cozy, traditionally fall-like weather, peak or near-peak foliage times are at least somewhat predictable. If you want color, plan for the first to third week in October. While an early frost or Indian summer is always a possibility, your chances of having at least some color are very good throughout the month, particularly closer to the middle. Even if it is warmer or colder than you’d like, you still have nature’s gorgeous backdrop to set the mood.

4. Opt for Rich Fabrics, Colors, and Textures.

Regardless of the weather on your wedding day, it is, in fact, fall. A great way to acknowledge that and incorporate seasonal elements is with rich, gorgeous fabrics and deep, warm, and/or bold color schemes. Choose a gown with a coordinating cape, shrug, or jacket, or consider long sleeves in guipure lace (one of this year’s hottest trends) instead of sleeveless. Go lighter on the tulle, heavier on the silk or satin with beading, embroidered elements, or appliques. Think plums, wines, burgundies, and deeper shades of other fall colors for the flowers, bridesmaid dresses, and décor. Add texture and seasonal touches to bouquets and arrangements with greenery, vines, twigs, branches, succulents, berries, and other rustic add-ons.