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  Twinkle Lights -166129

  The autumn equinox means having that twinkle lit wedding you've been dreaming of can happen before dinner.

  Photo Credit: Shewanders

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  Apple of Your Eye

  What better way to celebrate a fall wedding than with a big steamy mug of hot apple cider?

  Photo Credit: Abby Grace Photography / Styling by Atrendy Wedding

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  By Candlelight

  Everything is more beautiful when awash with candlelight — and there are no candle restrictions outdoors!

  Photo Credit: LV Imagery / Styled by Blush & Bowties

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  Grab a Seat

  Hay bales are inexpensive, cute, and can only be used outside... perks of the outdoor wedding!

  Photo Credit: Lover of Weddings

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  Miss American Pie

  Pie is the unofficial dessert of autumn, and what better way to enjoy it than outside?

  Photo Credit: Jessica Di Bella Photography

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  In Case of Rain

  Worried about the unpredictable (read: sometimes wet) autumn season? Put your girls in their Wellies!

  Photo Credit: Caroline Frost Photography

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  Get Cozy

  Providing blankets for your guests keeps them warm when the temperature drops.

  Photo Credit: Urban Fig Photography

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  Cuddle Weather

  Stay warm on a cool autumn night by cuddling up with your sweetie!

  Photo Credit: Lauren Anne Photography

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  Stylish Sleeves

  Ever since Kate Middleton's iconic look, we've all been a bit gaga over a wedding dress with sleeves. Fall is the perfect time to rock this trend!

  Photo Credit: Benj Haisch

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  S'mores

  Roasted marshmellows and wedding gowns may not sound like a match made in heaven, but believe it... they are.

  Photo Credit: Abby Caldwell

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  Beauty to be Found

  Foraging is free, and when you add the beautiful foliage to your flowers, it's bound to be timeless.

  Photo Credit: Ellie Koleen Photography

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  Caramel Apple

  After the cider cocktail hour, carry the theme to the favor and pass out caramel apples.

  Photo Credit: Bobby Pathammavong

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  Skip the Rice

  Grab a handful of leaves to toss! Not only are they free, but the photo op is priceless.

  Photo Credit: Deborah Zoe Photography

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  Bridal Booties

  Cowboy boots aren't your style? Grab a chic pair of booties instead. 

  Photo Credit: Braedon Photography

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  In Case of Rain

  The good news is, cuddling with your newly-ringed honey under an umbrella is super romantic.

  Photo Credit: Ryan Ray Photography

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  Comfort Cuisine

  There is no reason you can't serve grilled cheese and tomato soup at your wedding! Fall is made for comfort food.

  Photo Credit: Aura Marzouk

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  Cute Boots

  When you throw your fall wedding outside, cowboy boots are not only beautiful, but practical, too!

  Photo Credit: Kina Wicks Photography

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  Gorgeous Gourds

  Fall is the time of the pumpkin, and nothing beats these beauties when it comes to making a cheap but powerful impact.

  Photo Credit: Graham Terhune Photography

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  Free Foliage

  Looking for a cute last-minute idea for your escort cards? Look no further than the foliage that is plentiful this time of year.

  Photo Credit: Lauren Fair Photography

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  Brisk Beverages

  The brisk temperature mean you can have a beer canoe without worrying about anything getting warm. 

  Photo Credit: Ashley Davenport

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  Just Right

  Summer is too hot, winter is too cold... autumn is the perfect time for an entirely outdoor wedding.

  Photo Credit: Celia D. Luna Weddings

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  Crazy for Plaid

  Throw a few plaid blankets over the backs of your chairs and your guests will be warm and chic!

  Photo Credit: Hillary Maybery Photography

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  Bonfire, Baby

  Nothing is better than a bonfire... except maybe a wedding night bonfire.

  Photo Credit: A Lovely Photo

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  The Original Cheese Cake

  If your sweet tooth isn't strong, go for a cheese wheel cake. Bonus with an outdoor wedding in the fall? No stinky cheese.

  Photo Credit: Claire Thomson

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  Stay Cozy

  Fear not the cool temps; a chic sweater over your dress is ridiculously cute.

  Photo Credit: Aly Carroll Photography

25 Reasons to Love an Outdoor Fall Wedding

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  Pulled Pork Sliders -190204

  Top each pulled pork slider with a mini pickle.

  Photo: Casey Durgin Photography

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  Skewers

  Fill mini glasses with tomato and mozzarella skewers with a pesto glaze.

  Photo: Ana & Jerome Photography

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  Salad

  Salad has never been easier to eat on the go; serve up a variety of flavors to please any palate. 

  Photo: Richard Bell Photography

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  Cheese Forks

  It's like a charcuterie board in individual portions — mix and match various cheeses, cured meats, fruits, and vegetables on bite-size forks. 

  Photo: Ten22 Studio

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  Cookies

  Make your desserts even less prone to germs with individual packaging. 

  Photo: Mike Peyzner and Natasha Valik of Choco Studio

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  Cookies and Milk

  Upgrade your favorite comfort food with milk and cookie shots. 

  Photo: Ten22 Studio

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  Cupcakes

  Wrap your cupcakes in pretty decorative paper to make them even more wedding-worthy.

  Photo: Photos by Ciera

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  Doughnut Holes

  Paper cones filled with doughnut holes are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

  Photo: Cami Takes Photos

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  Doughnuts

  Individually-wrapped gourmet doughnuts are sure to be a hit. 

  Photo: Trista Maja Photography

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  French Fries

  Why are fries so hard to resist? Build in some portion control with small cones, and make it wedding-appropriate with gourmet toppings.

  Photo: MeewMeew Studios

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  Fried Chicken

  Small dishes of fried chicken can be so versatile; opt for a few different flavors that'll appeal to all of your guests. 

  Photo: 222 Photography

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  Fruit Bowls

  A martini glass filled with fruit gives "fruit cocktail" a new meaning. Add a glaze of frosting to make it even more delectable. 

  Photo: Sarah Elizabeth Photos

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  Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup

  Comfort food done right! Crustless grilled cheese is best served with tomato soup.

  Photo: Cory Ryan Photography

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  Ice Cream

  Perfect for a backyard wedding, ice cream cones are an idyllic summertime dessert.

  Photo: Ten22 Studio

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  Key Lime Pie

  Everything taste better served out of a martini glass.

  Photo: Brett Matthews Photography

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  Lobster Roll

  Especially if you're getting married in New England, mini lobster rolls will be a huge hit.

  Photo: Lisa Kay Creative Photography

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  Macaroni & Cheese

  Mini portions of macaroni and cheese will please guests of all ages.

  Photo: Hendrick Moy Photography

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  Meatball Sub

  Mini meatballs on Italian bread create pint-sized meatball subs.

  Photo: C. Baron Photo

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  Doughnuts & Milk

  Encourage dunking with these pretty mini doughnuts atop bottles of milk. 

  Photo: Betsy Blue Photography

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  Mini Pies

  An assortment of individual pies will make your guests smile. 

  Photo: Blackall Photography

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  Caprese Salad

  This Italian favorite features mozzarella, tomato, and a balsamic glaze.

  Photo: MeewMeew Studios

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  Nutella & Cream

  Toasted hazelnuts, cream, and Nutella come together to create the perfect pudding cup. Top each with a hazelnut truffle for a finishing touch. 

  Photo: A Fairytale Moment Photography

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  Pasta Bowls

  Tortellini paired with a pesto sauce and fresh tomatoes makes a colorful presentation. 

  Photo: The Popes Photography

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  Peanut Butter & Jelly

  Your childhood favorite goes upscale with these adorable mini sandwiches.

  Photo: Shaun Andrews via Colette's Events

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  Peach Cobbler

  Delight your taste buds with a summertime favorite in a miniature portion.

  Photo: Natasha McGuire Photography

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  Pie Pops

  Pies are easier (and more fun!) to eat while mixing and mingling when you put them on a stick.

  Photo: Pillsbury

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  Fruits & Veggies

  Taste the rainbow with a variety of fruits and vegetables.

  Photo: Tina Take My Photo Inc

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  Rice Bowls

  Savory rice is perfectly portioned in mini mugs.

  Photo: Natasha McGuire Photography

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  Shrimp Cocktail

  Guests will appreciate the extra mess-less measure of a skewer for each jumbo shrimp.

  Photo: Limelight Photography

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  Sliders

  Mini burgers are even easier to serve with a tiny fork.

  Photo: Angelika Johns Photography

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  Soup Spoon

  Crispy spoon crackers make this soup even more of a crowd-pleaser.

  Photo: Steve Steinhardt

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  Tacos

  Soft-shell tacos help minimize the mess.

  Photo: Linda Threadgill Photography

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  Veggies & Dip

  No worries about double-dipping here; fill shooters with individual portions of cut vegetables and dip.

  Photo: Sarah Elizabeth Photos

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  Fried Cheese

  Give mozzarella sticks an elegant upgrade with easier-to-eat bites and gourmet toppings.

  Photo: Nyk + Cali via Laurie D'Anne Events

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  Yogurt Parfait

  Elevate a fruit and yogurt parfait by serving it in a wine glass.

  Photo: Lyndah Wells Photography

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  Rice Krispie Treats

  Customize rice krispie treats for a dressed-up childhood favorite.

  Photo: Sugar Peach Productions

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  Gazpacho

  Cold tomato soup is a refreshing choice for a warm-weather wedding.

  Photo: Lena Mirisola Photography

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  Egg Rolls & Lo Mein

  Embrace the comfort food trend with your favorite Chinese take-out dish.

  Photo: Nicole Chan Photography

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  Dessert Shots

  These layered desserts are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the mouth.

  Photo: Sarah Elizabeth Photos

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  Cake Pops

  An ombré effect makes these cake pops almost too pretty to eat.

  Photo: Beauty of the Soul Studio

40 Grab-and-Go Menu Picks

• 

  Ceremony Ideas -190124

  When it comes to your décor, survey your yard and take advantage of what you already have. A simple white fence can be the perfect backdrop for your ceremony. Add a homemade arch to mark the spot where you'll exchange vows.

  "I have always loved at home weddings. Not only are they intimate but very meaningful to celebrate at the house you are making a home by becoming a family. What a great way to make memories in your home," says Danielle Aspromatis, owner, D’Luxe Events.

  Photo: Lisa Hibbert Photography / Event Planning: D’Luxe Events / Flowers: J&M Florals

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  Ceremony Ideas

  Don't stress about the seating — simple tailgating chairs provide your guests with comfort while watching your ceremony. You can even ask guests to bring their own chairs if you don't have enough. 

  Photo: Eileen K Photography

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  Ceremony Ideas

  Sometimes, you don't even need to add any decorations. A gorgeous tree provided a stunning natural backdrop for this couple's vows.

  Photo: Vitae Weddings / Event Planning: HoneyFitz Events

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  Ceremony Ideas

  Seeing the doors swing open to reveal the bride is one of those moments some brides-to-be dream about for years. The father of the bride custom-built this ceremony archway the morning of the wedding. 

  Photo: Vitae Weddings / Event Planning: Orange Blossom Special Events

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  Ceremony Ideas

  Create a picture-perfect makeshift arch by suspending tulle from two trees, accented by pretty lanterns.

  Photo: Doivoux Photography

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  Ceremony Ideas

  Thanks to COVID-19, this couple only felt comfortable including their parents in person. But luckily, it's never been easier to live-stream your wedding. They set up a phone in the middle aisle to capture video for their loved ones to watch from afar.

  Photo: Anthony Tomassi Photography

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  Ceremony Ideas

  Grab a simple throw rug (or even a nice blanket) to mark the spot where you'll share your first kiss as a married couple. 

  Photo: Anthony Tomassi Photography

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  Reception Décor

  Enhance the natural beauty of your surroundings with floral arrangements that'll pop. 

  "An intimate backyard wedding does not have to be boring! It can be just as special as the big celebration most couples plan," says Jess of Cheers Babe Photo. "Even though it looked different than planned — namely, it took place in the groom's childhood backyard with just the couple's immediate family present — the day was incredibly beautiful and memorable." 

  Photo: Cheers Babe Photo

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  Reception Décor

  Get a little extra privacy by installing just enough fencing to cover you reception space. Bonus: it serves as a great space to add some fun décor elements.

  Photo: Doivoux Photography

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  Reception Décor

  Take advantage of all your home has to offer, and bring the indoors out! Instead of renting furniture, simply bring your living room furniture outdoors to create a cozy cocktail lounge.

  Photo: Gabriel Conover Photography

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  Reception Décor

  A clear tent protects you from the elements while also providing a wonderful backdrop for your décor. Splurge on romantic lighting, like chandeliers and string lights. 

  "A more intimate gathering can be equally as special as the intended large gathering," says Jordan Kentris of A Good Day. "Taking the original budget and spreading it towards a smaller quantity of pieces can allow for some more luxurious touches to be created."

  Photo: Rebecca Arthurs Photography / Event Planning: Vintage & Lace Wedding Design + Coordination / Wedding Stationery: A Good Day 

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  Reception Décor

  Add some color — bright ribbons suspended from tree branches increase the fun factor at your reception.

  Photo: Mandy Liz Photography

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  Reception Décor

  Embrace the intimacy of a wedding at home with a relaxed picnic-inspired seating plan. 

  Photo: Cora Jane Photography

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  Reception Décor

  Create a tent out of nothing but string lights! Not only does it give off such a romantic vibe, but it'll also light up the night. 

  Photo: Photography By Cashmere via Jessie Khaira Events

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  Reception Décor

  If social distancing is your top concern, take advantage of all the space your home has to offer — set up some tables and chairs on your grass, while others are on the deck or patio. 

  Photo: Eileen K Photography

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  Reception Décor

  Dress up your pool with floral arrangements for an unexpected touch. 

  Photo: Daytime Photography

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  Photo Inspiration

  Take a romantic stroll down your street post-nuptials and capture some photos you'll truly always treasure. 

  Photo: Eileen K Photography

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  Photo Inspiration

  There's something undeniably romantic about being able to take a picture in front of your own home right after you become a married couple. 

  Photo: Fergie Medar Photography / Event Planning: Cape Cod Celebrations / Flowers: Botanique Flowers

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  Fun Extras

  "Add a fun, interactive element to the backyard reception, like this camper turned photobooth for guests to enjoy! Bonus: the pictures can serve as a guestbook and tangible memories from the day," says Stephanie Sadowski of SRS Events.

  Photo: Alicia Lacey Photography / Event Planning: SRS Events / Photobooth: Marigold Bus and Booth

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  Fun Extras

  Including your four-legged friend is even easier when your wedding is right at your own home. 

  “While many couples have had to tweak their original plans to make a 2020 wedding happen, there is something so special about these intimate celebrations," says Nora Sheils, founder of Bridal Bliss. "These smaller events are a great opportunity to really personalize the event and include elements that you may not have otherwise."

  Photo: La Vie Photography / Event Planning: Bridal Bliss

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  Fun Extras

  Balloons and bubbles add to the cozy, homespun vibe of this backyard reception.

  Photo: Eileen K Photography

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  Fun Extras

  Surprise your guests by having an ice cream truck swing by at the end of the night for goodies.

  Photo: Linda Threadgill Photography

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  Fun Extras

  Have some fun and shower your guests with treats from a pair of piñatas.

  Photo: Linda Threadgill Photography

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  Fun Extras

  A camper can also be transformed into a cute bar!

  Photo: Jennifer Nicole Photography

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  Fun Extras

  End the night with a dip in the pool! Oversized floats create the perfect photo props. 

  Photo: Hey Kelsey Kay

25 Ideas for a Wedding at Home