Why Autumn is the Best Season to Get Married (and How to Make the Most of It)
There is something undeniably magical about an autumn wedding. The crisp air, golden light and rich seasonal colours create a natural romance that no décor could ever truly replicate.
At Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa, in the heart of the New Forest, we believe autumn offers the perfect backdrop for couples who dream of a wedding that is both timeless and atmospheric.
This year, wedding trends are embracing everything autumn does best — textural florals, warm lighting, sustainable details and cosy outdoor celebrations. Here, we share our favourite ideas for creating an unforgettable autumn wedding at one of the most romantic New Forest wedding venues.
Romantic Autumn Wedding Colours & Styling Ideas
Autumn is a season defined by richness. Deep shades of burgundy, burnt orange, plum and terracotta pair beautifully with mossy greens and earthy neutrals. These tones translate perfectly into velvet bridesmaids’ dresses, rustic tablescapes, or dried floral arrangements that blend the elegance of fresh blooms with the season’s organic textures. The result? An aesthetic that feels both opulent and natural.
Outdoor Autumn Ceremonies at Careys Manor Hotel
The New Forest comes alive in autumn, making it an idyllic backdrop for your vows. Couples are increasingly drawn to outdoor ceremonies, enhanced with thoughtful details such as lanterns, fire pits and blankets for guests. At Careys Manor, our enchanting Cedar Garden provides the perfect setting: a secluded walled garden framed by trees.
Seasonal Wedding Menus & Autumnal Flavours
One of the true delights of autumn weddings is the food. Menus at this time of year are rich, warming and deeply satisfying. Imagine cider-braised meats, roasted root vegetables and indulgent puddings, paired with spiced cocktails or mulled wine. At Careys Manor, our talented chefs design seasonal wedding menus that capture the flavours of autumn, ensuring your guests are treated to a memorable dining experience.
With many venues only allowing environmentally friendly and natural confetti, it can be tricky and expensive to find some suitable. With the leaves turning to beautiful, bright colours, why not make your own! Spend an afternoon collecting leaves with your other half – a wonderful memory from your wedding preparations. Then, simply find a hole punch in the shape of your choice (hearts and stars are our favourite) and start punching those shapes! They’ll look fabulous in the pictures and are completely environmentally friendly.
Lighting & Atmosphere for Autumn Weddings
As evenings draw in earlier, lighting becomes an essential design element. Couples are embracing a cinematic approach — think golden uplighting, clusters of taper candles in vintage holders and soft fairy lights woven through foliage. This not only creates a romantic atmosphere for your wedding breakfast but also provides magical opportunities for evening photography. At Careys Manor, we love helping couples design lighting that brings warmth and intimacy to every space, and our talented team of resident photographers use this to their advantage, bringing your wedding photos to life.
Sustainable & Thoughtful Autumn Details
Many couples today are weaving sustainability into their celebrations. Autumn lends itself naturally to eco-friendly choices: seasonal flowers, locally sourced produce, recycled stationery and even vintage or rented décor. At Careys Manor, we work with trusted local suppliers to help couples create a celebration that feels both luxurious and kind to the environment.
Everybody loves noticing the little details you have no doubt spent hours thinking about and preparing ready for the big day. Details which show you have thought about your guests always go a long way. If your venue is outdoors or has an outdoor area, think about providing umbrellas in case it rains or blankets for when people start to get cold.
Leave a sweet message with them that remind people of why they’re there such as “To have and to hold, in case you get cold”.
You could even try making your own confetti – with the leaves turning to beautiful, bright colours, why not make your own! Spend an afternoon collecting leaves with your other half – a wonderful memory from your wedding preparations. Then, simply find a hole punch in the shape of your choice (hearts and stars are our favourite) and start punching those shapes! They’ll look fabulous in the pictures and are completely environmentally friendly.
Why Choose Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa for Your Autumn Wedding
Careys Manor is one of the most sought-after wedding venues in the New Forest, thanks to our blend of historic charm and modern elegance. From the romantic garden setting to our traditional banqueting suites, every space has been designed to host your dream day. Surrounded by ancient forest, yet easily accessible from London and the South Coast, our New Forest wedding venue offers a secluded haven for your celebration.
Our dedicated wedding team are experts at bringing visions to life, offering tailored packages that include everything from your ceremony to your evening reception. Whether you dream of a grand affair or an intimate gathering, we’ll ensure every detail reflects your love story.
Begin Your Autumn Love Story at Careys Manor
Autumn is a season of transformation, beauty and romance — the perfect time to begin a new chapter together. At Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa, we’ll help you create an autumn wedding that feels as warm, rich and unforgettable as the season itself.
To find out more about our Wedding Packages or to arrange a viewing, please contact our dedicated Wedding Coordinator, Françoise Gysemans on 01590 625204 or email sales@careysmanor.com.
Photography by Hannah Luxy Photography, Robin Goodlad and Lemontree Photography
