32 Fresh Ideas for a Fall Wedding Tablescape

Fall Tablescape — Photo by Carina Skrobecki Photography; Planning and Floral Design by Greenwood Events

More and more couples are saying "yes" to a fall wedding. Not only is the weather reliably amazing, but couples that say "I do" during autumn have such a wide variety of stunning color palettes and clever venue options to choose from.

Another one of our favorite aspects of fall nuptials? The inspired reception tablescapes. After a summer filled with bright pink and white centerpieces, there's something so magical about a warm-colored reception and cozy seating. So, how do you turn your space into one brimming with fall-inspired details?

“Adding colorful fall foliage to centerpieces is one the chicest and easiest ways to create a seasonal tablescape,” says Jennifer Zabinski of JZ Events. “We love adding a few sprigs of leaves to an existing floral centerpiece to add texture and natural fall color." Another great way to enhance a fall tablescape is to look at textures and patterns. “Plaid can be preppy or outdoorsy, formal or casual,” says Zabinski. “It's so versatile, and when used the right way, really evokes a feeling of fall coziness.” Of course, other textures such as leather and wood are sure to enrich a table design as well.

Meet the Expert

Jennifer Zabinski is the owner of JZ Events, a full-service wedding and event planning firm based in New York City.

From seasonal flowers and greenery in warm hues to wooden details, plaid linens, and plenty of pumpkins, there's no wrong way to create a fall tablescape. It’s all about embracing what you love about the season! Below, find 32 ideas for a fall tablescape to deck out the reception tables for your autumn wedding.

01 of 32

Look to Earth Tones

brown reception tables with yellow florals — Photo by Kurt Boomer Photography

Earth tones are a great option for incorporating fall hues in a muted way. We love this combination of beige and yellow, with plenty of texture. Plus, these centerpieces make the rustic wooden tables they're sitting on that much more stunning.

02 of 32

Use a Dark Linen

fall tablescape with blue tablecloth — Photo by Meg Smith Photography

It's no secret that we're all about warm-toned hues for fall, but that doesn't mean we're totally against moody dark tones. The two palettes can be paired together, as demonstrated with this navy-backed tabletop. We love that the dark tablecloth doesn't overwhelm the tablescape. Instead, the contrast makes the warm tones pop even more.

03 of 32

Make a Statement Installation

fall tablescape with hanging installation — Photo by Lauren Fair Photography

Make the head table the real focal point of the reception by hanging a special display up above. We especially love this install because it incorporates fall foliage to beautifully complement the color palette on the table below.

04 of 32

Hang Bistro Lights

outdoor reception with string lights — Photo by Gianluca and Mary Adovasio

Warm enough to host your dinner outside? Consider hanging bistro lights across the top of the entire reception space. Not only will this create a romantic, well-lit ambiance, but it can also add a casual, cozy touch to your event decor.

05 of 32

Go for Colored Glassware

tablescape with colored orange glassware — Photo by Brooke Miller Photography

A great way to incorporate stunning color into your tablescape? While chargers and plates make a statement, glassware is important too. Consider a gold, yellow, or orange-hued option to be sure your drink goblets stand out for the season.

06 of 32

Set the Mood With Color

table setting with gold and maroon color palette — Photo by Carina Skrobecki Photography; Planning and Floral Design by Greenwood Events

Once your color palette is decided on, spread it throughout the table decor in a way that doesn't feel too matchy-matchy. You can accomplish this by using shades of your favorite tones (rather than an exact match) splashed around the table's linens, paper goods, vessels, candles, and, of course, en masse with the flower arrangements.

07 of 32

Consider Black and White

black wedding place setting with fall florals — Photo by Mashaida Co.

Black and white table settings are perfect for any season or wedding theme, whether you're planning a modern summer wedding or a cozy fall celebration. Build off of the contrasting hues with the addition of seasonally-hued blooms.

08 of 32

Choose a Unique Palette

table setting with blue napkin — Photo by Birds of a Feather; Planning and Design by Vanessa Noel Events; Florals by Felisa Funes of Of The Flowers

One of our favorite color concepts for fall? The one that combines vibrant hues in a completely unexpected way. Take this bright orange, brown, and blue display as proof that, sometimes, the most unexpected color pairings can create one pretty place setting.

09 of 32

Celebrate Harvest

harvest inspired wedding tablescape — Photo by Cassidy Carson photography

Fall means harvest time for a bounty of fruits and vegetables. Why not use these elements to deck out your table? Consider adding sprigs of wheat, apples, artichokes, and more to create a seasonal centerpiece.

10 of 32

Provide Comfy Seating

reception space with booth seating — Photo by Eric Kelley

Set up a space that's sure to make wedding guests happy. Provide comfortable seating at both the ceremony and reception. This can be accomplished in a number of ways, from spacious benches to cushioned bistro chairs—or even banquette seating à la your favorite restaurant.

11 of 32

Add a Pop of Orange

reception tablescape with orange linens — Photo by Mo Davis Photography

Not interested in a full-on fall color palette? You can still keep things simple with light, muted colors. However, adding a nod to fall with a vibrant orange linen is such a fun way to embrace the season with a small touch.

12 of 32

Decorate With Fresh Foliage

fall tablescape with pressed leaves — Courtesy of Casa de Perrin

This one's a given, but consider bringing a bit of nature into your reception display. Do this by adding leaves, grasses, and berries into your existing centerpieces or go all out by making a show of foliage on its own.

13 of 32

Incorporate Unique Textures

place setting with leather menu — Photo by Josh Gruetzmacher; Planning and design by Shannon Leahy Events; Menus by Yonder Design; Florals by Bows and Arrows

Nothing says fall like layering suede, leather, and knits. Do this on your tabletop by pairing a nice cognac leather menu with burlap linens and something unexpected, like this bone napkin holder.

14 of 32

Consider Coordinating Flatware

fall place setting with gold flatware — Photo by Lacie Hansen; Planning and design by Callista & Company; Florals by Studio Mondine; Rentals by La Tavola Fine Linen, Chic Event Rentals, Casa de Perrin

When choosing flatware for a fall wedding, we say skip silver and opt for a warmer-toned option such as gold or copper. Copper feels especially elevated yet rustic. Go for it with copper chargers, utensils, and even metallic-rimmed plates.

15 of 32

Use Colored Candles

table setting with gold chargers — Photo by Tec Petaja

We're obsessed with taper candles in all colors, and we love them for any season. For fall, take this design as inspiration: Nude taper candles are woven between pale blue linens, a garland of spirea branches, and more votive candles for a curated, cohesive finish.

16 of 32

Incorporate Wooden Details

wedding tablescape with wooden lanterns — photo by Hailey Ayson Photography

The texture and warm tones of wood are sure to enhance any table design. Consider elements such as wooden lanterns with pillar candles for a seasonal look.

17 of 32

Go Big With Candelabras

fall tablescape with gold candelabras — Photo by Carina Skrobecki Photography; Planning and Floral Design by Greenwood Events

At fall weddings, there's something especially great about mixing styles. So don't be afraid to do that with your table decor. Here, we love how the fancy gold candelabras contrast with the rustic wooden tabletop and centerpieces of fresh foliage for a warm look.

18 of 32

Focus on Statement Blooms

Fall calls for statement blooms, like dahlias and mums, so embrace them by incorporating the season's finest into your flower arrangements. Focusing on a few statement blooms (rather than an abundance of flowers) can even cut down your floral budget if you pair them with (less expensive or free) foraged fillers.

19 of 32

Play With Plaid

plaid wedding tablecloth — PHOTO BY LEILA BREWSTER PHOTOGRAPHY

Plaid evokes such a cozy feeling for fall, and there are so many color palettes to choose from. Match a plaid tablecloth to your centerpieces for a bold look, or opt for just a hint by incorporating plaid napkins.

20 of 32

Add Apples

wedding tablescape with apples — Photo by Kristen Kilpatrick Photography

Fall is apple harvest season, so add some fruit to your floral centerpieces for a feast-like feel. We love the look of apples spread throughout the table, whether placed neatly in small compotes or scattered about on their own.

The Ultimate Guide to Fall Weddings

21 of 32

Play With Pumpkins

fall table decorated with pumpkins — Courtesy of Casa de Perrin

Of course, you can't forget about pumpkins when setting the table for fall. Underscore your fall vibe by putting them front and center. They're the perfect addition as a centerpiece or you could even consider an individual mini pumpkin at each place setting.

22 of 32

Accentuate with Feathers

pink and gold tablescape with feather details — Photo by Anna Shackleford

Add texture and height to table centerpieces with faux feathers. As with this arrangement, feathers can also add a necessary rustic touch when paired with blush blooms and gilded accents.

23 of 32

Incorporate Snacks

breadboard on wedding reception table — Photo by Laura Gordon

Complete your table by giving guests what they really want: food! As guests wait on dinner, they'll be pleasantly surprised to find a chic breadbasket or next-level charcuterie board (complete with meats, cheeses, figs, and nuts) on the table for pre-dinner munching. Plus, serving this pre-dinner snack on a wooden board or in a warm-toned basket will enhance the cozy feel of your tablescape even further.

24 of 32

Make It Personal

Long tables topped with handmade beeswax candles and greenery arrangements — Photo by Jenny Fu

Proof you don't have to pull out all the bells and whistles to achieve a perfectly subtle fall vibe. For a tented reception in the mountains, this couple lined long tables with handmade beeswax candles and gorgeous arrangements consisting of geranium leaves, chrysanthemums, scabiosa, and chocolate cosmos. Place cards with calligraphy by the bride added a personal touch to their table.

25 of 32

Add a Candlelit Glow

Table decorated with nude votive candles and textured fall arrangements — PHOTO BY LUCY CUNEO

When designing your tablescape, simple votive candles can be incorporated to create a warm, cozy feeling. The soft glow from these candles not only feels inviting, but it serves as the perfect juxtaposition to textured arrangements of peppergrass, lisianthus, heuchera, sage, scabiosa, and honey dijon roses.

26 of 32

Use a Rustic Table

Fall tablescape decor — Photo by Carina Skrobecki Photography; Planning and Floral Design by Greenwood Events

Channel a fall cottagecore aesthetic with none other than wooden farm tables dressed to impress. Allow woven gold runners to anchor the tables alongside brass candelabras and gold vessels filled with locally farm-grown dahlias, zinnias, cosmos, and golden fern.

27 of 32

Go for Gold and Texture

fall tablescape with gold tableclothes — Photo by Janelle Elise Photography

Gold is one of the most stunning hues to incorporate into a fall color palette. Consider going bold with gold tablecloths for every reception table. Enhance the look with tall gold centerpiece pillars, paired with plenty of dried, textured elements.

28 of 32

Don't Be Afraid of Red

tablescape with red floral centerpieces — Photo by Kurt Boomer Photo

While yellow and orange tend to steal the show, red is still very much a fall hue. Consider adding bold pops of red by incorporating pretty blooms or linens with red in the design. Just a hint of vibrant red is sure to liven up any table.

29 of 32

Make A Floral Statement

tablescape with fall floral centerpiece — Photo by Lynn Dunston

A floral statement can be for any season, but we especially love this look! Consider simple place settings with cream-colored plates and napkins. Build an incredible centerpiece down the length of your reception table with Earth-toned blooms and plenty of texture.

30 of 32

Consider Copper Mugs

reception tablescape with copper mugs — Photo by Ashley Slater

Copper mugs are perfect for serving Moscow Mule cocktails, but they're also great for hot apple cider or even hot cocoa. Plus, the pop of color is sure to add to the overall cozy feel of a fall tablescape.

31 of 32

Include Blankets

wedding reception with blankets — PHOTO BY TEC PETAJA; PLANNING AND DESIGN BY CALDER CLARK

Provide everything your guests need to cozy up for a meal. While these blankets aren't part of the tablescape, they certainly pull the whole look together displayed on each wooden chair.

32 of 32

Pair Bold Blue and Maroon

wedding tablescape with blue and maroon details — Photo by Rebecca Yale

It's not all about oranges, yellows, and gold! Switch up the traditional fall color palette with jewel tones instead. We can't get over this stunning pairing of maroon and white hues with a bold blue linen.

17 Fall Wedding Favors Your Guests Will Actually Want