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Plan your dream fall wedding with these ideas & themes

Hand holding a fall wedding bouquet (image from Pinterest).

Though summer may be the first season people think of when it comes to wedding season, there's no denying that there's something extra magical about a fall wedding. The red, orange and yellow foliage, a profusion of delicious foods and an all-around cozy atmosphere make fall an increasingly popular time for couples to tie the knot.

From rustic countryside gatherings surrounded by nature's most beautiful color palette to elegant affairs filled with jewel-toned sophistication, there's a fall wedding theme to suit every couple's dream. So put yourself in a PSL/ILY state of mind and get ready to fall in love with these fall wedding ideas.

So, really, why are fall weddings so amazing?

Autumn weddings hold a special allure for several reasons. First, the natural beauty of the season creates a romantic, timeless feel as well as a visual setting that's hard to beat (think of all the money you can save on decor!). On a possibly even more practical note, the weather is generally mild and comfortable, making outdoor ceremonies and receptions a promising possibility. Additionally, the fall season offers a diverse and stunning array of color palettes—from jewel tones to earthy neutrals—to choose from for your wedding party attire, florals and decorations. And if you want to treat yourself and your guests to a more quirky wedding theme, don't forget that fall is home to Halloween!

Popular fall wedding themes to consider for your big day

Rustic harvest: Create a charming scene from the wedding aisle to your reception with burlap accents, hay bales, and an abundance of pumpkins, apples and gourds.

Fall wedding table setting with fruit and flowers (image from Pinterest).

Enchanted forest: Transform your venue into an enchanted woodland with twinkling lights, lush greenery and whimsical fairy tale elements like mushrooms and lanterns.

Couple getting married under a tree (image from Pinterest).

Dreamy vintage: Embrace the timeless beauty of the past with vintage-inspired décor, classic wedding flowers and elegant lace details. Scour your local thrift shop and Etsy for authentic vintage decor and accessories.

Art deco inspired table setting (image from Pinterest).

Boho chic: This is an obvious but beautiful choice. Opt for macramé backdrops, pampas grass and dried flower arrangements, and free-spirited bridal party attire.

Pampas grass-covered circle frame with a wedding cake (image from Pinterest).

Halloween masquerade: Combine the fun of Halloween with the elegance of a wedding by incorporating black and gold accents, masquerade masks and autumn-themed cocktails. Or, just ask everyone to dress up as their favorite character for the most epic wedding photos ever!

Couple holding hands wearing masks and black wedding attire (image from Pinterest).

Wine country: Whether you're hosting your wedding celebration in an actual vineyard or just a place with a chill ambiance, incorporate wine-inspired elements (wine barrels are a cheers-worthy choice) into your decor and menu. An incredible charcuterie/cheese board is a must.

Wedding table in front of wine barrels (image from Pinterest).

Golden glamour: Go decadent with a glamorous dress code and decor with gold accents and lush flowers in rich jewel tones.

Gold table setting with mercury glass and fall florals (image from Pinterest).

Fall foliage: Celebrate the beauty of falling leaves with leaf-shaped stationery, accent leaves (some couples use them as table name cards!) and foliage-filled centerpieces.

Wedding cake with a fall foliage arch over it (image from Pinterest).

Pumpkin patch: Embrace the season's best-known fruit with a pumpkin patch theme. Create pumpkin centerpieces, offer pumpkin-flavored dishes at the reception and line the aisle with a variety of pumpkins.

Wedding aisle in a barn with pumpkins lining the path (image from Pinterest).

Plaid-ly in love: Could a theme be any cozier? Pick a plaid/tartan/check that you both love and add accents of it throughout your decor.

Slice of cake with a buffalo check pattern inside and sugar mushrooms on top (image from Pinterest).

Fall flower market: Florals for fall? Yes, please! A cute little market cart filled with a mix of fresh and dried bouquets makes for a wonderful backdrop (and a lovely "pick your own" thank you gift at the end of the reception). We also love the idea of a "wedding flower toss" in place of a traditional rice toss!

Cones filled with dried flowers (image from Pinterest).

Wicker wonderland: Wicker baskets can be used for everything from centerpiece holders to decorating the aisle, and there are tons of wicker furniture options out there that are as practical as they are Insta-worthy.

Table setting with woven placemats (image from Pinterest).

Where to have a fall wedding

When it comes to fall weddings, both outdoor spaces and indoor venues are excellent options. If you want to enjoy the scenic splendor of fall, consider holding the wedding ceremony and/or reception in a picturesque barn, vineyard, orchard or botanical garden. If you prefer an indoor setting, historic estates and small lodges can provide a cozy and charming sense of romance (and hopefully even a fireplace!).

When is the best time to hold a fall wedding?

As the sun sets earlier in autumn, it's best to hold your wedding approximately two hours before sunset. That way, you'll still have time for wedding photos before the sun bids adieu to the day and can enjoy a dreamy evening wedding reception. If you're planning on a midday wedding, you've picked one of the best seasons—the mild temps of fall mean you can have a wedding out in the sun without overheating.

Fall wedding menu ideas

Grazing table filled with fall foods (image from Pinterest).

It's impossible to think about fall without recalling all of the delicious foods on offer (it is harvest season, after all). Incorporate fall flavors into your wedding menu with delicious roasted root vegetables, pumpkin risotto, an endless charcuterie/grazing board, apple cider cocktails, cranberry and brie bites, mac and cheese, mulled wine and decadent caramel desserts. Trust us—no one will leave hungry if you lean into the flavors of this season!

Fall wedding cake ideas

Chocolate drip cake with fall florals as accents (image from Pinterest).
Semi-naked cake with fig and blackberries on top (image from Pinterest).
Naked cake with orange fall florals as accents (image from Pinterest).
White wedding cake with figs and simple floral accents (image from Pinterest).

Fall is the season of senses, so not only should your wedding cake look beautiful, but it should also taste incredible (it is arguably the best season for flavors). For looks, eye-catching textures, fall colors and autumn florals/fruits/foliage are superb. For flavors, go rich with ginger, spiced apple or pear, mocha, pumpkin, maple, cinnamon, salted caramel, red wine chocolate or even s'mores. 

Fall wedding decor ideas

Framed mirror with table settings on it surrounded by candles outdoors (image from Pinterest).

When decorating for a fall-themed wedding, draw inspiration from nature's bounty and colors. Incorporate elements like pumpkins, gourds and dried leaves into your centerpieces and table settings. Use warm-toned or ivory linens and candles to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. And, of course, choose florals for your bouquets and centerpieces that are either in-season or part of your fall color scheme: pampas grass, zinnias, eucalyptus, wheat, dried flowers, calla lilies, roses in autumn tones, dahlias, anthurium, sunflowers and even orchids in deep shades of purple!

Fall wedding dress ideas 

Woman in flowy boho dress and another women in a white dress with a draped bolero (images from Pinterest).

For fall weddings, brides often opt for gowns that feature long sleeves, delicate lace, flowy boho silhouettes and/or rich fabrics like velvet and satin. Illusion necklines and open backs are also incredibly popular choices. Accessories in warm neutrals or jewel tones pay homage to this glorious season's vibrant colors, while natural accents like pampas grass and dried flowers can be transformed into gorgeous hair accessories.

Fall bridesmaid dress ideas 

Bridesmaids in a range of fall colors holding bouquets (image from Pinterest).

Silky satin or plush velvet are the fabrics to embrace here. And in case you haven't been paying attention, we'll say it again: Jewel tones are simply perfect for fall weddings. And no more so than when it comes to choosing bridesmaid dresses. Other options are warm, rich neutrals (think earthy browns/terracottas), gold or copper tones, wine/burgundy, or taking inspo from the seasonal foliage and having your bridesmaids each wear a slightly different rust, pumpkin, mustard or mauve hue to create a harmonious range of fall colors.  

Fall suiting ideas 

Image of groomsmen in a range of earth-tone suits and a close-up of a fall boutonniere (image from Pinterest).

Burgundy, mahogany, rust, plum, olive green and ochre are top choices for both the groom and groomsmen to sport on the big day. Warm wool and rich velvet are both seasonally and sartorially appropriate fabric choices, and if you're looking to rock a pattern for this occasion, you can't go wrong with a classic plaid check. 

Fall-themed bridesmaid gift ideas

Group of bridesmaids in matching plaid nightshirts and a basket filled with green shawls (images from Etsy).

After all the hard work and support your bridesmaids have put into helping make your dream wedding come true, show them your appreciation with a thoughtful gift that matches the vibes of your fall wedding. Snuggly shawls, warm scarves, cute PJs, engraved jewelry or scented candles in autumn-inspired scents are all lovely choices that are sure to delight your trusted besties.

Some special considerations for fall wedding planning

While fall weddings are unquestionably magical, some unique considerations are worth noting and preparing for. The weather can be unpredictable during this transitional season, so it's essential to have backup plans for outdoor events in case of rain or even snow if you're planning a late-fall wedding. Keep your guests' comfort in mind—offer cozy blankets (which can double as a fantastic wedding favor!) or rent some outdoor heaters if necessary. Also—there are several major holidays in the fall and it can be sometimes be more difficult for people to travel or take time off. Sending out save-the-dates is a smart way to give your guests plenty of time to make arrangements and for you to secure your dream guest list! On an aesthetic note, planning your wedding date around peak fall foliage means you can make the most of the natural autumnal beauty of your chosen venue.

Fall wedding stationery

Whether you opt for a rustic, bohemian or vintage theme, embracing the essence of autumn will undoubtedly result in an unforgettable wedding day. Ready to start planning? Evite offers a cornucopia of beautiful digital wedding invitation templates for every part of your wedding, including engagement party invitations, bridal shower invitations, wedding save the dates, wedding ceremony invitations, rehearsal dinner invites and wedding reception invitations. We also offer complete wedding invite bundles featuring matching templates for every wedding celebration, as well as beautiful wedding thank you cards to send to your guests after the celebrations are over.

Getting Married Wedding Collection

Collection of matching minimalist wedding invitations.

Blush & Burgundy Blooms Wedding Collection

Collection of matching blush and burgundy floral wedding invitations.

Simple Sprigs Wedding Collection

Collection of matching wedding invitations with simple floral line drawings.

Agate Swirl Wedding Collection

Collection of matching navy and taupe swirl wedding invitations.

Delicate Branches Wedding Collection

Collection of matching wedding invitations in various earth tones with branches.

Have more questions about wedding stationery planning? We've got you covered! Our comprehensive wedding guides are filled with tips and examples to help you on your wedding journey. Our When to send out your save-the-dates and When to send out your wedding invitations blogs are here to keep your timeline on track, while our Wedding invitation wording & format and What to write in your wedding thank you cards blogs ensure you'll find just the right words to say to your guests.

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What makes Evite SignUp Sheets different from SignUpGenius?

Developed hand-in-hand with community organizers, PTA presidents, parents and teachers, Evite's signup sheets are designed to make organizing volunteers a breeze. Here are a few ways SignUp Sheets are different than SignUpGenius:

  • 100% free: SignUp Sheets are free to use.
  • Ad-free: No popup ads ever! Our signup sheets remain clutter-free, keeping your volunteers focused on signing up.
  • No extra login required: Seamlessly use your Evite account to create and manage your signup sheets, keeping all your events in one convenient location.
  • Automatic reminders and notifications: Stay on top of your event with automated reminders and notifications for you and your participants. Perfect for busy parents, teachers and anyone juggling multiple commitments.
  • Customization options: Tailor your signup sheets to your specific event, whether it's a school fundraiser, potluck, volunteer opportunity or team activity. Add custom tasks, time slots and requirements for smooth coordination.
  • User-friendly experience: Our intuitive interface makes creating and sharing signup sheets simple for everyone, regardless of tech experience.
  • Real-time updates: Get instant notifications whenever someone signs up or makes a change, so you always know where things stand.

Choose Evite SignUp Sheets for the easiest, most streamlined way to get volunteers and signups for your next event!

What is a signup sheet?

Signup sheets are the perfect way to streamline scheduling, volunteer recruitment, class parties, snack duty, potluck organization, parent-teacher conferences and more! You can think of them as your digital assistant for coordinating events and tasks and ensuring that your event is a success.

Evite SignUp Sheets offers parents, teachers and event planners customizable online forms that organizers and volunteers can access and update effortlessly. Volunteers can choose their preferred time slots, sign up for tasks or indicate what they'll bring to the event. It only takes organizers a few minutes to create a signup sheet and send it out with a shareable link, so they can get the word out via text, email or social media—whichever way they prefer! 

Long story short, signup sheets save everyone involved tons of time, avoid scheduling headaches and ensure everything runs smoothly before and during the event.

How do I create a signup sheet?

Creating a signup sheet has never been easier than with Evite! Here’s how to create a sheet that’s sure to make your event an absolute success:

  1. Go to Evite SignUp Sheets and choose the template that best fits your needs. Evite offers multiple signup sheet templates perfect for every occasion, including:
    • Signup sheets for one day events (without different time slots), perfect for when you’re organizing a class party, potluck or end-of-season party.
    • Signup sheets for single or multiple day events (with time slots), perfect for when you’re organizing concession stand volunteers, fundraisers, parent-teacher conferences, meal train, post-game snack duty or during appreciation week.
  1. After selecting your sheet template, create a title for your signup sheet and add the date, the location, the time (if applicable), who the organizer is, the organizer’s phone number or email and an optional note describing the event to your volunteers. You can also change your signup sheet background and title image if you wish!
  1. Next, create slots for your signup sheet. If you aren’t logged into your account, you will need to do so at this point, but luckily, you can use your existing Evite account (no need to create yet another login!). What you’ll include here will depend on what your event needs, but you can include a list of what’s needed (along with optional descriptions), how many volunteers are needed, and dates and times.
  1. After creating your slots, you can then add a wish list from any retailer or include supply suggestions from Evite’s retailer partners. These are to help your volunteers find and purchase supplies quickly and easily.
  1. Finally, review your sheet, copy your shareable link and send it out to everyone on your list! Every time a volunteer signs up for a slot on your signup sheet, Evite will email you. We will also send reminders to you and your volunteers before your event so no one will forget about it, and we’ll even let volunteers know if you remove their slot or cancel your event sheet so you don’t have to!

What information should be included on a signup sheet?

When it comes to signup sheet information, there are some essentials to include regardless of what you’re organizing:

  1. A title for your signup sheet. Tip: Aim to keep your signup sheet title concise but clear. You want volunteers to read it and have a general understanding of what your event is about, and also make it easy for them to look for later if they need to reference your sheet again. You have the option to include a more descriptive note in a different field about your event, so save the more in-depth details for that!
  1. When and where the event is taking place. 
  1. The organizer’s name and phone number.
  1. Slots for volunteers to choose from. Once you choose the SignUp Sheets template that fits the occasion, the slots you’ll need for your sheet will be right there and ready for you to add the relevant info, such as dates, times, items to bring and tasks to complete. 

When adding your slot information, clearly define what people are signing up for, especially for a what-to-bring list or role assignments. If you want someone to bring healthy snacks for kids to enjoy after a game, specify that. You want your volunteers to feel confident in what they’re bringing and to make it easy for them to know what’s expected of them. It will save them time and stress (and you, too!). That being said, if you make your ask too specific (for example, asking for a hard-to-source item or something expensive), you may not end up with a volunteer for it. So be clear about what you expect, but also be reasonable!

Aside from providing the basic signup information, you can also add optional descriptions to both your entire signup sheet and individual slots. While not required, they can help guide your volunteers further and provide more information. You can add information about allergies, preferences and general info about the event. You can also add a wish list to make it easier for your volunteers to bring exactly what you need!

What are the benefits of using a signup sheet template?

Signup sheet templates offer a ton of advantages for both organizers and volunteers and with Evite SignUp Sheets, you'll enjoy even more benefits than other digital and paper signup sheets! Some benefits our signup sheet templates offer include:

  • A 100% free experience (no subscriptions required!).
  • Shareable links for quick and easy sharing.
  • No need to create another login—you can use your existing Evite account.
  • The option to add a wish list to help your volunteers out.
  • Automatic reminders—we’ll remind everyone on your behalf.
  • An easy-to-use experience with eye-catching guided templates.
  • Clean, modern designs with no pop-up ads.

With Evite SignUp Sheets, you can enjoy organizing and coordinating all your events with ease. Signup sheets streamline the signup process for everyone involved, ensuring that everything will go to plan on the day of your event while saving you precious time in the process.

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