Unpredictable Fall Weather Tips

Unpredictable Fall Weather Tips

Fall is one of the most popular times of year to get married, and with good reason. The weather is less sweaty (depending where you live), and often high-demand summer destinations are more afforable for both you and your traveling wedding guests once Labor Day comes and goes. But when it comes to actually planning a fall wedding,  it can be hard to anticipate whether you'll end up with an Indian summer ceremony or a suddenly-winter wedding reception. We tapped top wedding industry experts to explain how to best prepare your Big Day for the unpredictability that comes with fall weather and cooling temps.

“In Virginia, fall weather is unpredictable—it might be 80 degrees and sunny one day and 50 degrees and rainy the next. To be prepared for both extremes, talk with your planner and event venue to ensure that you are prepared for alternatives! Embrace an outdoor tented option so that you can remain stress-free on the day of no matter the weather.” —Abbey Venners, Sales Manager at Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards

"A fire pit can be a unique experience for your guests as well as an innovative way to keep them warm while adding to your outdoor decor. Create a smores station or set up accompanying lounge areas to guarantee guests are comfortable while also staying warm!" –Kelli Durham, Owner of Kelli Durham Photography

"When planning for your bride and groom portraits, it's always good to have an indoor plan, but there are also special ways of photographing outdoors that will still work while staying dry in case of a fall shower. In NYC, several outdoor locations have a rain cover; we love Central Park because Bethesda Terrace provides rain cover and still has that outdoor feeling. Make sure your videographers and photographers are notified so that they can waterproof their equipment." –Melani Lust, Owner of Melani Lust Photography

“Aside from the seasonal beauty, fall is a perfect time to create a cozy and casual wedding menu, but remember, fall isn’t only about pumpkins. Embrace foliage and natural elements or even take advantage of all the beautiful harvest to decorate a buffet. Also, adding seasonal infusions is a fun way to spice up a cocktail or small bite.” –Samantha Semel, Director of Catering for CxRA.

“If dealing with colder temperatures, there is nothing like a fur shrug to keep you warm while adding flair to your gown. This accessory will also add a unique seasonal touch to your wedding day photos.” –Charlotte Jenks Lewis, Owner of Charlotte Jenks Lewis

“When it comes to celebrating the season, consider scented candles as part of your day of design. These are great disguised in unexpected areas like bathrooms or other gathering areas. This will bring the feeling of the outdoors in and get all of your guests' senses excited." —Eyal Tessler, Owner of Tessler Events

“Even the warmest fall day can get chilly once the sun goes down. Adhere to nature’s schedule by having the ceremony and cocktail reception outside and move indoors for dinner and dancing.” –Sarah Jennings of Lonesome Valley

“Be sure to love the aesthetics of the indoors of your location just as much as the outdoors. If the weather takes a turn, but you love every aspect of your venue, you have a built-in indoor option for your photos, ceremony, and reception.” –Rebecca Ickes, Owner of Rebecca Marie Photography

“Fall offers one of the best color palettes (especially here in Colorado with those golden Aspen trees), so incorporate all of those seasonal details into the overall design of the wedding. Also, work with your photographer to embrace the fall foliage-filled backdrops of your location to really capture the essence of the time of year.” —Melissa Anne, Finke, Catering Sales Manager at The Broadmoor

“If you are having a wedding in the fall, there is a good chance you are in a location with warmer weather in the day and cooler evenings. Plan a wedding weekend so that your guests can enjoy a hike or take advantage of the beautiful setting on their own when the weather is warmest.”  –Mary Dougherty, Owner of Mary Dougherty Photography

“If you're hosting an outdoor ceremony in cooler temperatures, make sure to clearly set guests' expectations for attire on your invitations and website. You'll want to make sure they know they will be outside, so they are bundled adequately and are comfortable and happy.” –Marie Artale, Creative Projects Manager at Cedar Lakes Estate

“Here in the mountains, fall means crisp, dry days and cool nights. Hurricane season ushers in unexpected gusts of wind, so have your décor do double duty by including pashminas or warm items to keep guests comfortable while still contributing to your day of design.” —Eatherley Schultz, Owner and Head of Operations, Floressence Flowers