Wedding Planning

Planning a Fall Wedding at Big Oak Ranch

Fall in the Shenandoah Valley is hard to beat. The mountains turn shades of red, orange, and gold, and the trees around Big Oak Manor Ranch make a beautiful backdrop for your wedding day. If a cozy, rustic fall wedding sounds like your style, here are a few ways to make the most of the season at our venue.

Decor

Warm, earthy tones are perfect for a fall wedding. If you’re looking for a color palette that will stand out against the mountain views, consider:

Deep reds
Burnt orange
Forest green
Touches of gold

Seasonal flowers like dahlias, mums, and sunflowers pair nicely with greenery or dried grasses for extra texture. For centerpieces, simple details like lanterns, candles, wood accents, or even small pumpkins add the perfect touch.

Photos

Your wedding photos capture the moments you’ll want to remember forever. The best time for fall photos is golden hour, that last hour before sunset when the light turns soft and warm. In the fall, it usually starts at around 5:30 p.m., giving the mountains and trees a natural golden glow that is ideal to shoot beginning around 4:30 p.m.

Some of our favorite photo spots at Big Oak Ranch include:

- Under the big oak trees surrounded by colorful leaves
- Out in the pastures with the Blue Ridge Mountains as your backdrop
- In front of our unique and rustic LOVE sign
- For something extra special, ask about heading across the creek for panoramic views of the Valley and photos with the horses.

Menu & Drinks

Seasonal flavors make your wedding menu feel extra special in the fall. Roasted vegetables, hearty soups, and herb-seasoned meats fit the season perfectly. For drinks, warm apple cider, cinnamon-spiced cocktails, or a hot chocolate bar are always a hit when the evening cools down. For dessert, options like pumpkin pie bites, apple crisp, or cinnamon-sugar donuts add a sweet autumn touch.

If you’re looking for local vendors to bring your menu to life, we recommend:

You can also explore our designated vendor list for additional menu and beverage options to personalize your experience!

Prepare for Weather

Virginia fall weather can be unpredictable, but a little planning goes a long way. Set out baskets of blankets or pashminas for chilly evenings, or hand fans if the day turns warmer. With both indoor and outdoor spaces at Big Oak Ranch, you’ll have options no matter what the forecast brings.

A great fall touch is a cozy campfire under the clear mountain sky. We have a special spot for campfires and a jumbo Solo Stove, perfect for roasting marshmallows and gathering with friends and family after dinner. It’s the ideal way to warm up as the evening cools and enjoy the crisp autumn air surrounded by the mountains.

Book Your Venue Early

Fall is one of the most popular seasons for weddings in the Shenandoah Valley, and dates fill up quickly. Be sure to book early - both accommodations and vendors get reserved fast. If your dream is to say “I do” surrounded by mountain views and autumn colors, now is the time to start planning.

Explore the Venue & Estate