Planning a Fall Wedding in Michigan? Here’s Your Complete Checklist
Fall in Michigan is pure magic — changing leaves, cozy color palettes, crisp air, and golden-hour light that makes every photo glow. But planning an autumn wedding comes with its own unique set of details. From weather backups to floral choices, there are a few key things you don’t want to miss when planning your big day in September, October, or November.
Whether you're just getting started or you’ve already booked your date, this checklist will help you stay on track, feel confident, and fully embrace the best season Michigan has to offer.🍂 Fall Wedding Planning Checklist
Lock In a Venue That Fits the Season
Fall is peak wedding season in Michigan — venues book fast. Prioritize those with indoor options or tenting capabilities in case of unpredictable weather.
CLE Tip: Venues like The Godfrey Hotel (Detroit), Shepherd’s Hollow (Clarkston), or The Treasury (Pontiac) pair beautifully with fall aesthetics.
Choose a Weather-Ready Wardrobe
Even a sunny October day can dip into the 50s by evening. Consider long-sleeved gowns, warm wraps for you and your wedding party, and backup options like clear umbrellas or heaters.
Lean Into Seasonal Design
Think rich, moody tones like terracotta, forest green, rust, and burgundy. We love incorporating textures like velvet, wood, and gold accents to make your décor feel layered and luxe.
For one of our upcoming October weddings at Broadview, we’re pairing burgundy and baby blue with moss runners, wooden farm tables, and gold accents for a glam-rustic blend that brings the natural setting to life without feeling overly themed.
Plan for Natural Light
With daylight hours getting shorter, be strategic with your ceremony time and photo schedule. Golden hour happens earlier, so we work closely with your photographer and timeline to get the glow and keep the day running smooth.
Work With Vendors Who Know Michigan
From potential rain to cool temps, it helps to have a local team that’s prepared. We only recommend vendors who know how to adapt and pivot if the weather shifts — especially florists, caterers, and tent vendors.
Prioritize Guest Comfort
If part of your wedding is outdoors, consider offering cozy throw blankets, hot cider at cocktail hour, or a tented lounge with heaters. These small touches go a long way.
🌿 Why Fall Couples Book Full-Service Planning
Fall weddings are beautiful — and busy. Between school starting, travel, holidays, and tight vendor calendars, you don’t want to do it all alone. With full-service planning, you get:
One point of contact for all details
A personalized fall wedding design plan
Timeline management and vendor coordination
Expert support on all weather contingency plans
“Our fall wedding wouldn’t have been the same without CLE. They created something so warm and personal. I didn’t worry about anything but showing up.” — Fall Bride, Metro Detroit
Fall weddings in Michigan are stunning — but to make the most of the season, you need a plan, a strong timeline, and a design that reflects the warmth of autumn. If that’s what you’re looking for, Christian Lei Events is here to help you bring it all together beautifully.
🍁 Planning a 2025 or 2026 fall wedding in Metro Detroit? Let’s create something timeless, warm, and unforgettable. Start your planning journey here.
