October: The New June

With fall here, we look why October has recently become one of the most fashionable times to tie the knot, boasting nearly as many weddings as June, the traditional wedding month. 1. Weather The weather tends to be beautiful all across the country,” says Sally Kilbridge, a New York-based editor who spent more than two decades at Brides magazine. “It’s not too cold in the north and not too warm in the south.” 2. Availability Whereas summer weddings often overlap with holidays and guests’ personal vacations, October typically has fewer scheduling conflicts, thus more of your loved ones are able to attend, says Angela Rogna, a wedding planner with Chicago-based Birch Design Studio. 3. Affordability Saturday events in the summer are always at a premium, but in October reception venues may be more open to negotiating discounts or additional perks. “Plus, it’s off-peak season for many popular honeymoon destinations, so costs go down and the crowds dwindle,” notes Kilbridge. 4. Attire Temperate weather opens up a wider range of gown options. For example, brides won’t be uncomfortable wearing heavier fabrics or more elaborate silhouettes, but they also can still wear more delicate dresses. All it takes is a unique shawl or bolero to prevent any evening chill and make a simple strapless dress pop, says Rogna. 5. Food Harvest-inspired menus can feature heartier dishes that warm both tummies and hearts, says Kilbridge. Think cider-glazed guinea hens, wild mushroom risotto, curried pumpkin soup, roasted butternut squash salad and apple, pear and chocolate-pecan tarts. 6. Venues Couples may have an easier time picking a venue because not only are summery farms, orchards and vineyards still great settings for a fall celebration, says Kilbridge, more austere or cozy interior spaces also make perfect sense. 7. Colors Rich autumnal hues like deep chocolates, crimson and saffron offer an instant color scheme, says Kilbridge. 8. Décor Autumn weddings make it easier for couples to amp up the elegance and play with more extravagant décor, says Rogna. Layer different textures of linens; enhance the lighting with classy candelabras; go for dramatic glassware; and seek out unique centerpieces that incorporate fall foliage. 9. Photos In addition to providing a naturally brilliant backdrop thanks to the vibrant colors of the trees, October can present fun photo opportunities, such as the bridal party playing in a pile of leaves, says Rogna. 10. Favors Steaming cups of hot cocoa and apple cider make for delicious departure beverages, says Kilbridge. Pass them out with tasty take-home treats like jars of homemade apple butter, jam or chutney, which will remind guests of autumnal abundance - and your love-filled festivities - all winter long.