Fall is a season of warmth, romance, and vibrant colors, making it a magical season for a wedding. If you're planning your special day during this unique time of year but want to stick to a budget, we've got you covered. From venue selection to ceremony decor, keep reading and discover the ultimate guide to fall wedding ideas on a budget.
Covered in this Article:
Selecting a Fall Wedding Theme on a Budget
30 Fall Wedding Decor Ideas on a Budget
Fall Wedding Ideas on a Budget: Food
Selecting a Fall Wedding Theme on a Budget
Choosing a theme is the first step to crafting unique fall wedding ideas on a budget. In the fall, you have a wealth of themes to choose from, whether it's rustic, vintage, woodland, or something entirely unique. Here is a list of themes that will make for a swoon-worthy event:
Rustic: Embrace the rustic charm of fall with a wedding theme that celebrates the beauty of nature. Think barn venues, wooden accents, and earthy color palettes of golden browns and muted tones.
Woodland: Step into an enchanting woodland wonderland for your autumn wedding. Woodland is a popular theme for couples who appreciate the tranquility of nature. Oftentimes a woodland theme incorporates forest-like elements such as wildflowers, moss, tree stumps, and other natural materials.
Harvest: Draws inspiration from the bounty of the fall season, featuring warm and earthy colors, natural textures, and elements associated with the harvest. Color tones of warm golds, rustic oranges, and quiet blues evoke a harvest atmosphere.
Bohemian: For a relaxed and whimsical vibe, consider a bohemian-themed fall wedding. Picture dreamcatchers, macramé backdrops, and vibrant purple, maroon, and cream floral arrangements. Opt for loose, flowing dresses and flower crowns to complete the boho look.
Country Chic: Capture the essence of rural beauty with a country chic wedding theme. Utilize burlap, lace, and sunflowers for decor. Consider using hay bales and wearing cowboy boots to add a touch of country charm to your celebration.
Traditional: A traditional fall wedding leans into the elegance of rich warm colors such as deep burgundy, burnt orange, and mustard yellow. Touches such as metallic gold picture frames can emphasize the timelessness of your traditional fall wedding.
Reserving a Fall Wedding Venue on a Budget
Typically one of the largest wedding expenses, the wedding venue you choose can significantly impact your budget. It’s vital when selecting a venue that careful planning and a focus on cost-effectiveness are taken into account. Here are 5 tips to help you pick a venue without breaking the bank:
Find a venue with on-site accommodations. Some venues have accommodations located on the property which can help save on time and lodging costs of the wedding party. On-site accommodations also support a more organized day-of schedule and can help save on travel expenses.
Pick a venue with its own tables and chairs. Too often an afterthought, selecting a venue with tables and chairs built into the rental cost can save you thousands of dollars in transportation and set-up fees alone. Additionally, choosing a venue with tables and chairs included can simplify your planning and day-of wedding logistics.
Look for “self-serve” venues. Some venues offer a self-serve option so you don’t pay extra for the set-up and take-down of your wedding. This can save you time, energy, and the expense of hiring extra help to handle these tasks.
Rent your venue on an “off-day.” Opt for a weekday wedding and you could save yourself upwards of 25 percent or more on your wedding venue rental.
Book in advance. Start your venue search early. Popular and affordable venues are always the first to book up.
Choosing a budget-friendly venue allows for more creative possibilities when exploring your other fall wedding ideas on a budget.
Fall Wedding Ideas on a Budget: Colors
Your choice of fall wedding colors doesn’t necessarily have to be affected by your budget. First and foremost, the fall season offers a wide range of flowers, foliage, and decor elements that are abundant and readily available, reducing the need for expensive imports or out-of-season items. Moreover, the natural beauty of the season serves as an inherently elegant backdrop, minimizing the need for extravagant decor and accessory expenses, making it ideal for implementing your dream fall wedding ideas on a budget.
Consider incorporating the following shades to align your special day with the season.
Rich Burgundy: Burgundy exudes elegance and warmth. It’s a deep, romantic hue that pairs beautifully with gold or blush accents.
Burnt Orange: Capture the essence of autumn leaves with burnt orange. This warm and vibrant color will add a pop of energy to your wedding palette. It pairs wonderfully with earthy tones and deep greens.
Golden Yellow: Golden yellow embodies the golden hours of fall. It’s a cheerful and optimistic color that compliments rich browns or deep blues.
Earthy Green: Green is a versatile choice that mirrors the natural hues of fall foliage. Opt for earthy greens like sage or moss to create a calming and organic atmosphere.
Deep Purple: Deep purple adds a touch of luxury to your fall wedding. It’s a regal color that works well with gold or metallic accents. Incorporate purple hues in your flowers and decor for a rich and opulent feel.
Navy Blue: Navy blue is a timeless choice that adds depth and sophistication to your color palette. Combine it with gold or blush for a classic and traditional look.
Muted Taupe: Taupe is a subtle and neutral color that tastefully complements other fall shades.
Brown: Brown is a quintessential fall color, representing the earthiness of the season. It’s perfect for rustic-themed weddings and works seamlessly with creams, oranges, or deep reds.
Crimson Red: Crimson red is a bold and passionate choice for fall weddings. It symbolizes love, making it an excellent color for accents or statement pieces. Combine it with gold or black for a dramatic effect.
Mix and match these hues to create a personalized color palette that suits your wedding theme.
Budget-Friendly Fall Wedding Decor
Decorating your wedding venue is often one of the most enjoyable aspects of wedding planning and having a budget shouldn't take away from that enjoyment. In fact, it can provide a unique chance to get creative and resourceful.
To help you make the most of your budget while still enjoying the planning process, we've compiled a list of 30 ideas for you to consider when decorating your wedding venue.
30 Fall Wedding Decor Ideas
Autumn Leaves
In-season Flowers
Pumpkins or Gourds
Hay Bales
Wheat or Cornstalk Bundles
Candles
Burlap
Tree Stumps
Garland
Pinecones
Mason Jars
Wooden Crates
Lanterns
Wooden Ladders
Wooden Pallets
Framed Pictures
Potted Plants
Mirrors
Fruit
Tea Lights
Confetti
Feathers
Wine Bottles
Vases
String Lights
Fairy Lights
Lace
Ribbon
Chalk Boards
Succulents
Other ideas for meeting your fall wedding ideas on a budget could include building a DIY ceremony arch, shopping thrift stores and flea markets, or repurposing your own furniture or decor.
Fall Wedding Ideas on a Budget: Fashion
In the same way you can find budget-friendly wedding decor, you can also discover affordable options for your wedding gown or suit. Here are 6 strategies to help keep your budget in check when choosing wedding attire.
Sample Sales and Consignment Shops: Don’t shy away from sample sales and consignment shops when hunting for the perfect wedding dress or suit. You’d be surprised at the gems you can find at a fraction of the cost.
Off-the-Rack Options: Explore off-the-rack dresses and suits, which are often more budget-friendly than custom-made attire.
Renting vs. Buying: Consider renting your wedding attire. This can be a significant cost-saving option, especially for tuxedos and high-end gowns that might not be worn again.
Bridesmaids and Groomsmen Attire: Allow bridesmaids or groomsmen to choose dresses or suits in a particular color palette or style within their budget. Consider allowing them to wear attire they already own or can rent affordably.
Vintage and Thrifted Accessories: Accessories like veils, jewelry, and cufflinks can add a personal touch to your wedding attire. Consider vintage or thrifted options, which can be both unique and budget-friendly.
Repurposing Family Heirlooms: If you have family heirlooms, like your mother’s veil or your grandfather’s tie, consider incorporating them into your wedding ensemble.
Remember, being budget-friendly doesn’t mean sacrificing style or elegance. With these tips, you can confidently achieve a stunning and memorable ensemble without straining your budget.
Fall Wedding Ideas on a Budget: Food
Food is a crucial part of any wedding celebration. Discover budget-friendly fall-inspired menu options that will delight your guests and keep your costs down.
Here are six creative and budget-friendly fall wedding food ideas that will leave your guests impressed.
Seasonal Ingredients: Take advantage of the bountiful produce available during the fall. Incorporate ingredients like apples, butternut squash, pumpkins, and cranberries into your menu. These items are not only delicious but also budget-friendly when they’re in season.
Soup and Salad Starters: Begin your wedding feast with a hearty and comforting soup or a colorful fall-inspired salad. Creamy pumpkin soup or a spinach and apple salad with a maple vinaigrette dressing is sure to tame your guests’ appetites.
Main Courses: For the main course, consider meat dishes that are both filling and budget-friendly. Roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or vegetarian stuffed squash are excellent choices that embrace the flavors of fall.
Family-style Dining: Opt for family-style dining rather than plated meals. This not only encourages interaction among guests but also reduces the need for a service team or table bussing.
Dessert Display: Serve dessert in the form of cupcakes or pies instead of a traditional wedding cake. These options are often more budget-friendly and can be arranged in a visually appealing display.
Buffet Service or DIY Food Stations: Buffet service or food stations are often more budget-friendly than a plated dinner service. Each option allows guests to choose their portions and customize their meals. For example, a make-your-own taco bar or a mashed potato bar with various toppings can be interactive and cost-effective.
Remember, it’s not about how much you spend but the thought and creativity you put into your fall wedding menu. Embracing seasonal ingredients and executing a clever presentation is sure to delight your guests.
Book Your Fall Wedding
Planning a beautiful and memorable fall wedding on a budget is not only possible but also incredibly rewarding. With this guide for fall wedding ideas on a budget, you can create a memorable and picturesque celebration, all while keeping your finances in check.
Searching for more wedding inspiration? Check out our other blog posts or contact us to secure your booking at the Sego Farms event venue and make your dream fall wedding a reality.