7 Common Fall Wedding Mistakes You Don't Want to Make

As summer comes to an end, signs of the start of fall start to emerge: The green leaves change into sunset-hued shades, the air turns cool and crisp, and fans return to football stadiums to cheer on their favorite team. For many couples, this season serves as the perfect backdrop for their nuptials—and it’s easy to see why. In addition to the temperate weather, this time of year features bold color palettes, moody décor, and trend-forward fashions. Additionally, if you're looking to host a food-focused fête, you and your partner may dream of serving showstopping seasonal meals to your guests, leaning into the flavor-filled fruits and vegetables of autumn.

If you find yourself gravitating toward such themes, you’re not the only one. This time of year often feels romantic, sentimental, and cozy, making it the perfect season to say “I do.” More brides and grooms are seizing on just that, booking their wedding date for late September, October, November, or early December. However, even though autumn can be a picturesque time to tie the knot, there are a number of common mistakes you’ll want to avoid in order to ensure your big day is a success.

Below, three experts break down the seven most common mistakes couples make when planning for a fall wedding—and how you can avoid doing the same. Read on for everything you need to know. 

1. Forgetting to Account for Earlier Sunsets

The early weeks of fall often feel like the perfect extension of the summer season. However, while you may be able to still enjoy warmer temperatures, it’s important to remember that the days begin to get shorter during these cooler months. “Couples may tend to forget that it starts to get darker earlier in the night,” says Cathy O’Connell, the co-founder and creative director at COJ Events. “Once November 2 hits and daylight saving time is over, evenings will arrive even sooner.”

To avoid missing your golden-hour portrait session, Rebecca Lang, the owner and lead planner of L3 Events, suggests checking the sunset time for your exact date and location. While cloud coverage may be unpredictable, you’ll still be able to implement a timeline that takes advantage of the best light. Aim to have your ceremony start at least 90 minutes before the sun is scheduled to set, she adds. To err on the side of caution, book time with your photographer before your nuptials officially begin. “Opt for a first look to get the bulk of your portraits done before the ceremony, so lighting becomes a bonus instead of a stressor,” Lang says. “Afterward, your photographer can focus solely on capturing the two of you in the glow of the setting sun.”

2. Not Booking Your Key Vendors Early Enough

Your vendors are a key part of your big day. However, as more couples opt to tie the knot in the fall, booking your dream photographer, venue, and florist may be a more competitive process.  “Fall has become much more popular than summer, which can limit vendors and venues,” says O’Connell. “Planning 12 to 18 months in advance for a fall wedding is essential for securing your top choices.” The same goes for your decorations. “Waiting until the last minute can mean paying more or compromising on your vision,” says Jennifer Cortiella, the owner of Cortiella Photography. “We suggest booking rentals and ordering décor early and having a backup color palette in case certain blooms or linens aren’t available.”

3. Not Preparing for Seasonal Allergies

While spring is well-known as peak allergy season, many people experience a flare-up with fall pollen and ragweed. “The last thing you want is a stuffy nose or watery eyes during your vows,” Cortiella says. “Make sure to have allergy medication handy for you and your bridal party. And if you’re prone to allergies, avoid ceremony spots directly under trees or in leaf-heavy areas.”

4. Failing to Anticipate Quick Temperature Drops

The days of fall can feel idyllic. Unlike the oppressive, humid heat of summer, these months feature cool temperatures paired with bright blue skies. However, while you may find yourself basking in the sun during the day, remember that the weather can quickly change after sunset. Many couples forget to account for temperature drops while planning, O’Connell says. “Check historic weather averages for your venue and date, and if needed, provide blankets, heaters, or an indoor space so guests stay comfortable,” she says. 

5. Ignoring the Possibility of Fall Storms

In some areas, fall often means unpredictable weather patterns. For example, from June to November, a number of states, including Florida, are in the midst of the Atlantic hurricane season, which can bring heavy rain, flooding, and extreme heat or humidity. If you’re planning an outdoor celebration, make sure to have a back-up plan in place, O’Connell says. 

However, in addition to preparing for an alternative ceremony or reception site, Lang recommends taking steps to protect your deposits in case of a major weather event. Secure event insurance and review your vendor contracts for cancellation or postponement terms. And when asking your loved ones for their addresses for your invitations, consider collecting their contact information if you don’t already have it. Doing so will allow you to share last-minute weather updates and location changes on the big day, Lang says.

6. Not Preparing for Dangerous Ground Conditions

Even if the weather on the day of your nuptials is picture-perfect, know that the effects of recent storms can linger. For example, wet leaves can cause the ground to become slippery, a potential hazard for an outdoor ceremony site. “A good way to avoid this is by placing mats or rugs in high-traffic outdoor areas to ensure the safety of your guests and vendors,” O’Connell says. Doing so will allow you to prevent any unexpected falls—and gives your loved ones a place to wipe off any mud or dirt from their shoes before entering the space.

7. Only Seeing Your Venue in a Different Season

While you may have fallen in love with a potential venue during the spring or summer, if possible, try to make a point to see it around the same time as your preferred wedding date. “Some venues look amazing in summer but lose their charm when fall rolls in,” Cortiella says. “Gardens can look bare, trees may lose leaves earlier than expected, and outdoor cocktail spaces might be too cold.” By making a point to visit your venue during the season of your nuptials, you’ll ensure that your vision can come to fruition.