Spotlight: Embracing Autumn in California

Autumn represents a beautiful time of change, serving as a poignant reminder that endings can lead to beautiful new beginnings. As the leaves transition from green to a kaleidoscope of amber, crimson and gold, the season embodies renewal and fresh starts. From rich color palettes to cozy décor, there are countless ways to infuse your special day with the essence of fall. Here are 7 expert tips to guide you in creating a stunning autumn-inspired wedding.

1. Employ Rich Tones and Textures

Selecting a color palette that celebrates fall hues is essential for a cohesive design. Via Tiare from Stone Mountain Estates suggests, “In addition to seasonal flowers and earthy furniture, I enjoy focusing on color palettes that harmonize with the venue's natural surroundings.” Consider shades like terracotta, peach, and ivory for bridesmaid dresses to capture the essence of the season.

2. Feature Nature-Inspired Décor

Bringing the beauty of autumn's natural elements into your wedding design can offer breathtaking. Fran Steiner from Events By Fran emphasizes, “I love incorporating the nature of the fall leaves with the couple's fall wedding design.” Consider accenting décor with fresh foliage by using leaves as escort cards, table runners, or even incorporating them into your floral arrangements for a unified aesthetic.

3. Curate Culinary Delights

The menu is a fantastic way to bring fall flavors into your celebration. Samantha Nason from Zest it Up shares a few of her seasonal favorites: “One of my favorite ways to bring fall into a wedding is through the menu. Guests could start by sipping on ginger-cranberry whiskey sours or apple cider old fashioneds, followed by bourbon-baked brie bites for appetizers. Picture a harvest-inspired salad paired with roasted butternut squash soup and a classic beef bourguignon for the main course. For dessert, warm pies or cobblers à la mode will bring all the cozy fall vibes. And to top it off, a coffee cart could steal the show, offering pumpkin spice lattes, hot toddies, or mulled wine. Not only will guests feel spoiled with these seasonal surprises but enjoying these fall treats every year will bring back fond memories of your fall wedding.” 

4. Incorporate Seasonal Produce

Integrating farm-fresh items into your overall design is a creative way to celebrate the season.  Rob Pausmith from Pausmith Group notes, “We love incorporating fresh, seasonal produce into a wedding design. Apples and pears can be incorporated into floral centerpieces (we love the trend of adding pearl studs to create a maximal look), cranberries can be displayed in smaller vintage glass finger bowls, cluster of grapes can be added into the tablescape (especially great if you are having a vineyard/winery wedding), or pumpkins can be added to the base of welcome signage. ."