The Leaves…They Are A-changing

Autumn is my most favorite of all the seasons. You’re given a reprieve from the sultry humid days of summer and the earth once again regales her inhabitants with the changing of the leaves. I absolutely love this fabulous time of year! Gone are the afternoons spent wilting in the summer sun waiting for the bride to walk down the aisle while your makeup runs in rivulets down your face. Also you can say goodbye to the ultra feminine, almost virginal pastel hues that come along with summer celebrations. Now don’t get me wrong, I love pink as much as the next girl, but I’d happily trade pink roses for these sultry parrot tulips any day.


For me, the autumnal shades of chocolate, burnt orange, gold and deep red are so robust and awe-inspiring. Over the next few posts, I’ll explore all the components that go into producing an autumn fete your guests will remember for years to come.

It’s all about location, location, location. As with real estate, a truly fabulous event begins with location. Naturally the majority of your design elements will take their queue from this most important factor, its surrounding environment. There are a wealth of choices: ballrooms, tents and of course vineyards. You’ll notice I’ve left off the garden option, here’s why. To me, unless you live in a tropical or continually sunny locale, garden weddings are for the spring and summer when the blooms are at their best.

Now, it is time to be practical. I know, I know…weddings are all about dreams, fantasy and whimsy however one must be realistic when it comes to budgetary concerns. If you have such concerns I highly recommend holding your wedding in a ballroom, regardless of the season. In a proper hotel ballroom (yes, there is a difference), you have the luxury of built-in architectural elements from which you can build.
(photo courtesy of the Mandarin Oriental DC)
Notice the recessed lighting as well as the chandeliers, perfection indeed!

Tents, which I absolutely adore, are blank slates, an event planner's dream come true by the way. Which means you’ll have to spend a great amount of resources to bring them to life. Should you choose the tent option and live where the temperatures are still rather warm in the fall, might I suggest one such as this without walls?
(Photo by Acclaimed Tent & Party Rentals)
Imagine a separate dance floor under the stars complete with an 18-piece band, just delightful.

For those who prefer a more intimate celebration, vineyard weddings are the ideal choice.
(Photo by Angie Silvy Photography)
To me, this choice reflects the abundance of the season, the fertility of the earth and the spirit of thanksgiving and gratitude for its gifts.

Next time we’ll talk colors and flowers. Can’t wait!