Even though the autumn equinox isn’t until late September, Labor Day weekend is often considered the unofficial end of summer. Soon, temperatures will begin to drop and the fall wedding season will be in full swing.
According to data from The Knot, fall weddings are more popular than ever. Couples are drawn to the season’s mild temperatures, colorful leaves, and empty calendars in between major holidays. If you’re planning an outdoor wedding this fall or winter, it’s important to consider the changing weather and what it means for your guests. Keep reading to learn how to create a cozy vibe that caters to all five senses at your outdoor evening wedding.
Sight
Cozy is defined as a feeling of comfort, warmth, or relaxation. Beginning with the sense of sight, let’s explore how to channel this feeling into your special day.
Warm colors like red, orange, and yellow are often associated with fall weddings. These colors reflect the foliage on the trees and are proven to evoke feelings of happiness, cheer, and warmth. Other popular colors include jewel tones like emerald green and maroon, or dark neutrals like brown and black. By incorporating these colors into your wedding attire or decor, you can help set the tone for a cozy atmosphere.
Lighting is another key element of a cozy outdoor evening wedding — plus, the right light source can help keep your guests warm. Consider hanging string lights above the dance floor for a look that’s both beautiful and practical. Lanterns or candles can be used to light pathways and guide guests around your venue. If you have access to a fire pit or outdoor fireplace, keep it roaring all night long for an added source of light and entertainment.
Sound
If coziness is your goal, you’ll want to think long and hard about the soundtrack of your wedding day. The Top 40 makes for a fun dance party, but there’s nothing cozier than a little bit of jazz and slow tunes by crooners like Frank Sinatra, Michael Buble, and Barry Manilow.
Play soft piano music in the background for ambient noise and cozy vibes all night long.
Smell
From pumpkin spice to freshly sharpened pencils and gingerbread, fall is synonymous with a range of scents. Use them to kick your cozy wedding vibe up a notch:
- Place scented candles around your reception venue.
- Enjoy the bonfire smell from your fire pit or outdoor fireplace.
- Make your own potpourri for a creative wedding favor your guests will actually use.
Taste
Similar to scent, there are many flavors associated with fall. Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger add an instant burst of cozy to every dish.
Give your guests a cup of cozy with a warm beverage station. Drinks like mulled cider (or wine!) and hot chocolate are ultimate crowd pleasers. For food, swap the wedding cake for a cozy pumpkin pie, apple cider donuts, or maple candy.
Touch
Last but not least, consider how you’ll keep your guests warm at your outdoor evening wedding.
Provide an assortment of cozy blankets and shawls around your venue so guests can grab one when they need it. You might also want to rent a few space heaters to pump warm air into the evening — they aren’t the most attractive, but your guests will be grateful they’re there!
Planning an Outdoor Evening Wedding
Outdoor weddings are anything but predictable. But, with a little forward thinking and intentionality, you can prepare for anything.
For more cozy wedding inspiration, visit our wedding planning hub. Use the directory to find the perfect venue, musician, or florist that can turn your cozy wedding dreams into reality.
