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Seasonal looks to love for your retro picnic wedding

With the changing leaves and cool breeze sweeping across the nation, we can’t help but shout one last hurrah for our favorite type of summer wedding: the outdoor picnic. If you’re planning autumn nuptials, considering celebrating in a crisp backyard or garden. For one, throwing an outdoor wedding in the fall encourages your guests to truly soak in the change in seasons at a time of year where they might be more apt to stay indoors. Not to mention, the autumn splendor is instant wedding décor, and you’ll save money and effort on crafting a beautiful, charming venue.

A retro theme is the perfect companion to an autumn outdoor picnic. Think rich, patterned blankets, fusing outdoor textiles like tweed and linen, and harvest-themed décor. Choosing the perfect outfit for your breezy fall ceremony is easy when you have a theme so invested in simple elegance and seasonal charm.

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Photos: Clockwise from top left: Bird & Banner; J. Crew; Snippet & Ink; Cynthia Martyn Events; J. Crew

Add mix-and-matched fabrics to your paper goods and mimic the aesthetic in your clothing. Have your invitations printed on vintage handkerchiefs and tuck a linen pocket square into your tweed blazer. Use fabric swatches for escort cards and envelope your tables in classic gingham tablecloths for a homemade, vintage feel.

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Photos: Clockwise from top left: Martha Stewart Weddings; Tara Whittaker Photography; High Cotton Ties; Corbin Gurkin Photography; Style Me Pretty; Wedding Paper Divas

American style has changed so much through the years that a retro theme gives you lots of design and fashion ideas to choose from. Tie on a seersucker bow to complement your vintage ribbon boutonniere and fresh pair of Chuck Taylors. Your bride would be lovely in a retro military-inspired look, crafted to match a perfectly muted wedding palette of reds, whites and blues.

 

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Photos: Clockwise from top left: Classic Bride; The Art Zoo; Highland Store; Stephanie Williams Photography; J. Crew

The retro picnic theme is an ode to a simpler time, and these typewriter key cuff links are an elegant and whimsical nod to the past. Set up an old typewriter at the entrance to your reception for guests to leave love notes for the new couple and provide old Polaroid cameras in lieu of renting a photo booth. Whether you choose a tie or a cozy scarf to complete your ensemble, a checkered pattern is perfect for fall.