Fall is my favorite season, hands down, and I am SO ready to help plan and coordinate a lovely fall wedding! With the vibrant foliage, crisp air, and cozy atmosphere, a fall wedding offers a unique and memorable experience for couples and guests alike, from different colors to different weather to different venue settings. There's no better place to get married than in the picturesque setting of Eugene, Oregon (unless you're in the New England area!). Let's explore why fall is the perfect season for your wedding, what to look for in a autumn venue, and what makes fall weddings so special.
Why Have a Fall Wedding?
Fall weddings are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. The season brings a natural beauty that enhances the romance and charm of any wedding. The stunning fall foliage provides a breathtaking backdrop for your wedding photos - and Eugene has NO shortage of foliage from trees and plants! In fact, the valley that Eugene is nestled in is known as the Emerald Valley (emerald for being how green it is!). Eugene is also really popular with outdoor enthusiasts, which means many of our wedding venues love to highlight the nature that surrounds us.
Fall weddings also mean cooler temperatures, which ensure that everyone is comfortable throughout the day. No heat of summer burning down on your guests during the ceremony! Plus, fall offers a sense of coziness and warmth that is perfect for creating an intimate and welcoming atmosphere for your guests. Think of several fire pits dotted throughout your reception space, plaid blankets in shades of burgendy, gold and olive, and a warm spiked spiced cider that comes out later in the evening when the sun has gone down.
The rich, earthy tones of autumn also allow for creative and unique wedding décor that can make your day unforgettable - think leaves and branches of wood, white pumpkins and yellow squash, zinneas, cosmos, coneflowers and dahlias, and lanterns and bistro lighting. WOW!
What to Look for in a Fall Venue
When choosing a fall wedding venue, there are several factors to consider to ensure that your day goes smoothly. Firstly, look for a venue that offers both indoor and outdoor spaces. This flexibility allows you to take advantage of the beautiful fall weather while also having a backup plan in case of rain. Secondly, consider the natural scenery of the venue. Eugene, Oregon is known for its stunning landscapes, so choose a venue that highlights the area's natural beauty and gives some gorgeous views! Of course, always think about the amenities and services offered by the venue. A venue that provides on-site catering, accommodations, and event planning services can make the planning process much easier and more enjoyable. It may cost a little more, but it is SO much easier in terms of setup and cleanup on the big day. This last part is true no matter what time of year you get married!
Unique Features of Fall Weddings
One of the most unique aspects of fall weddings is the opportunity to incorporate seasonal elements into your celebration. From pumpkin centerpieces and apple cider cocktails to cozy blankets and fire pits, there are countless ways to embrace the fall season in your wedding. Fall also allows for a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, as the hustle and bustle of summer has come to an end. This can create a more intimate and personal experience for you and your guests. Additionally, fall weddings often have a more rustic and natural feel, which can be a refreshing change from the traditional wedding aesthetic of all whites, bright or pastel colors or greenery.
Top Outdoor Fall Wedding Venues in Eugene, Oregon
Eugene is home to a variety of stunning outdoor wedding venues that are perfect for a fall wedding. Some of my top venues to consider include:
1. Mount Pisgah Arboretum: This beautiful venue offers a large glassed-in barn, with sliding doors that open on all sides to reveal the peaceful scenery and oak savannah landscapes surrounding it. It is part of a larger natural area known as the Howard Buford Recreation Area. If you love nature, love all of its quirks and unpredictability for a wedding, and stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys, then this place is for you. The arboretum's diverse plant life and vibrant fall foliage make it an ideal location for a fall wedding! This places books out fast, especially for the October dates, but it is one of my favorite venues. Mt Pisgah
2. Sweet Cheeks Winery: Nestled in the rolling hills of the Willamette Valley, Sweet Cheeks Winery offers breathtaking views at the top of a hill. The winery's outdoor patio provide a picturesque 180 degree backdrop for your ceremony and reception. You and your guests will see all of the changing landscape from this place! The All-weather Vista Room offers space for a smaller wedding during the cold fall, winter and spring months when the weather isn't cooperating. The winery does stay open to the public every day until 6 pm, so your wedding celebration will be later in the evening. Another one of my favorite venues! Sweet Cheeks Winery
3. Inn at Diamond Woods: Built on the edge of a golf course, out in the middle of nowhere, the Inn is a fantastic setting for a landscape view in the fall. The front of the venue has a more wooded vibe, while the back is a sweeping lawn fit for a Bridgerton fan! While I haven't done a wedding here yet, I picture a fall themed ceremony out on the lawn as the sun sets around 6 pm. There are heaters and fire pits set up on the large rectangular patio, in-between long tables for 10-20 guests to sit at. The bistro lights come on just in time for dancing, and lanterns are positioned on the edge of the patio, so the candlelight dances in time with the music. This venue offers a full weekend rental, with bedrooms and a kitchen available, so you and your closest friends or family can stay right onsite for the weekend. Inn at Diamond Woods
4. Laloma Lodge: Want to get married in the woods, not far from the McKenzie River? Have a small-ish guest list for an intimate wedding? Then Laloma Lodge is definitely your venue. This venue will allow you to have an outdoor ceremony and reception. The main lodge itself is straight from the 1930s, boasting as the only historic building along the river (mostly due to fires over the last decade). Family and friends can stay overnight at the lodge, or one of several cabins located on the property. Picture yourself surrounded by tall old pine trees, ferns, lots of moss, and in the fall, the changing colors of the leaves and the river growing from a summer swimming hole to a fast-flowing freshwater fluid, as you marry the one you love. It's one of my dreams to do a small late autumn wedding at this property! Laloma Lodge
Tips for Planning a Fall Wedding
Planning a fall wedding requires some special considerations to ensure that everything goes smoothly. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Embrace the season: Keep costs lower by using fall elements into your décor, menu, and overall theme to create a cohesive and memorable experience.
2. Plan for the weather: Fall weather can be unpredictable, so have a backup plan in case of rain or cold temperatures. Consider renting heaters or providing blankets for your guests.
3. Choose seasonal foods: Take advantage of the delicious flavors of fall by incorporating seasonal ingredients into your menu. Think pumpkin, apple, and squash dishes, as well as warm, comforting drinks like hot cider and mulled wine.
4. Timing is key: Fall days are shorter, so plan your ceremony and reception to make the most of the daylight. Consider having an earlier ceremony, before 6 pm, or incorporating twinkling lights and candles for a cozy evening atmosphere.
Choosing to do a fall wedding in Eugene is going to give you a unique and enchanting experience that you and your guests will cherish forever. By choosing the right venue and incorporating seasonal elements, you can create a magical celebration that perfectly captures the beauty and romance of the autumnal season. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant fall foliage, the cozy atmosphere, or the stunning natural landscapes, Eugene has the perfect outdoor fall wedding venue for you! Don't forget that a wedding planner or coordinator is affordable and will help decrease the amount of stress you experience during the process. Click on the Contact Me button above to send me a few details about your wedding date and we can set up a meeting to talk about whether my services are right for you!