While we associate spring and summer with weddings, fall weddings are having a moment. Rich colors, the leaves changing, not sweating in your dress or suit in the oppressive August heat—what’s not to love? If you’re planning a fall wedding in central Michigan, here are five things you should keep in mind:
Incorporate Fall Flavors
If you’ve done any wedding planning at all, you know that unique dessert and food options are a big deal right now: donut walls, sundae bars, you name it. One way to be on trend while ensuring that your guests are delighted is by incorporating some of their favorite fall flavors. Cinnamon, apples, pumpkin pie, all could make your wedding one your guests (and their tastebuds) remember.
Incorporate Seasonal Elements
Using seasonally available flowers and accents like pumpkins and gourds can not only tie your wedding into the natural scenery, it can help keep costs reasonable. Flowers that are in season and widely available are going to be easier to obtain and better priced than rare or off-season pieces for your bouquets and floral arrangements.
Watch Out For Weather
Fall weather in central Michigan is hit or miss. You could have a 70 degree sunny day, heavy rain, or even snow and sleet. The day of your wedding could be a beautiful fall day: leaves changing and the air cool and crisp. Whatever the weather may be, you need to prepare for all possibilities, especially since weddings are planned so far in advance.
Due to the volatility of Michigan weather, if you’re planning an outdoor wedding, be mindful of the date and the attire. An outdoor ceremony in late October is going to be cold, most likely, and your guests will be shivering. Even if you’re planning an indoor ceremony and reception, the weather should still be a consideration, since guests will need to travel to your wedding and from the ceremony to the reception location.
Have a Backup Plan
As we mentioned in the previous section, Michigan weather is unpredictable. If your wedding is outside, there are all sorts of ways the weather could interfere with that. You should have an indoor venue as a backup plan, just in case the weather prevents your outdoor festivities. Otherwise, you and your guests will have to suffer through the inclement weather, or you’ll be left scrambling at the last minute to find a venue.
Have a Shuttle for Guests
If your wedding reception isn’t going to be in the ballroom of the hotel where all your guests are staying, transportation can pose an issue for guests. Guests who are from out of town may have difficulty finding the venue, and guests who plan to drink will need safe transportation home or to their hotel after the last dance. A shuttle for your guests can ease any worries about alcohol and driving and provide a safe ride back to the hotel, ensuring that there are no worries or unfortunate incidents on the day of your wedding.
If you're planning your Michigan fall wedding now, know that Bucks Run has a beautiful indoor banquet hall perfect for your guest list. Contact us today to reserve your wedding date!