Falling in Love with the idea of a Colorado Fall Wedding? Think crisp air, leaves changing, warm drinks, rich colors, hearty food and snuggling up with your new husband or wife. Sounds wonderful! We have compiled a list of ideas to help you plan the perfect Fall Wedding at Lionscrest Manor.
Fall in Colorado can be a season of contrasts. One day you are at 75 degrees and then the next there is snow on the ground. With a fall wedding you too want to build a wedding based on the idea of change.
The Ceremony
In and Out- Obviously an outdoor ceremony set among the fall color is a dream. Keep in mind that having a good indoor ceremony plan is a must in case of fall chills and snow. If you are set on an outdoor ceremony make sure to prepare your guests. Letting them know about an outdoor ceremony gives them the opportunity to dress accordingly.
Bonus Tip: Keeping guests inside with hot cider and coffee until the ceremony begins is a good way to keep them happy.
Sunset- Keep in mind when the sun is setting that time of year. You want to plan your ceremony typically an hour or two earlier than you would for a true summer ceremony. Taking advantage of the sun not only keeps you and your guests warm but it helps you to get the most time for photos on our 35 acres. Click on this Sunset Calculator link to find our what time you are looking at for your specific fall date (Lyons, CO 80540).
The Reception
Fall Wedding Invitations and Placecards- When having a fall wedding try to incorporate an image or motif that runs throughout the event. Something as simple as a fall leaf, acorn or even pumpkin that is on your invitations, menu cards, placecards, bar menu, napkins and thank you cards. Going with fall colors also is a good way to set the tone. Deep reds, oranges, greens, browns get everyone into the fall state of mind.
Fall Wedding Decor- When looking for your fall color palette try to add an interesting twist to the traditional autumn color scheme – perhaps a deep blue, jewel tones or a mix of metallic hues.
Fall Wedding Flowers & Centerpiece- When meeting with your florist discuss adding in fruits like apples, cranberries to your arrangements. Other natural elements like leaves, wheat, cinnamon sticks and pine cones can add depth to these pieces. Subtle touches will help carry through the autumnal theme on a natural level. Instead of glasses vases try going with pumpkins, gourdes, terra cotta pots or even apple buckets. A trip to the garden store or farmers market can be a real inspiration for new ways to use everyday items.
Wedding Reception Meal- Just because you are having a fall wedding does not mean you have to serve turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy (not to say that you can’t). If you are wanting to go with a traditional fall cuisine try to add your own spin introduce a new way to have an old classic. A delectable butternut squash ravioli with sage, brown butter and candied walnuts. Offer a pumpkin soup served in mini hollowed out pumpkins or plated salad with toasted pumpkin seeds and dried cranberries.
Create a family feast by serving your guests with large platters table side instead of a traditional buffet or plated meal.
At the Bar- Incorporating a few signature drinks that play off of the autumnal theme like a spiced rum punch, ciders, Irish coffees or your own family favorite will show your guests the warmer side of the day.
Fall Wedding Cakes- Choosing cake flavors that use fall favorites such as pumpkin spice, apple cinnamon, or butter pecan again carry through the fall comforts we have all come to know and love. Fresh flowers or harvest items can be added to the cake to tie in your color scheme and motif.
Attire
Fall Formality– For the bride we recommend trying laces and vintage touches like family broaches, rich creams and striking bodices to off-set shawls that may be needed for the cooler evening. Going with jewel tone bridesmaids dresses serve as a dramatic backdrop to the bold flowers.
For the men try going with a grey, tan or chocolate suit instead of the classic black. This modern take is perfect for the man who likes to dress down or up depending on the occasion.
Need more fall inspiration or looking to tour our grounds? Come by our Fall Bridal Showcase.
Special Thanks to Creative Focus Photography, Emily Forsberg Photography, Joel Peterson Photography and Elegant Images for the captivating fall imagery.
