by Dawn Rutt

Created on: September 01, 2010

"Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower." So stated Albert Camus, a French Philosopher and author. And what better time to start a new life and make a new beginning by planning a wedding? Autumn has become the most popular time to say "I do" and with valid reason. The season is cooler and the foliage is putting on a show. Mother Nature is at her best, so embrace all she has to offer and incorporate a little bit of nature into the fall wedding favors.

Everyone appreciate a favor that can be eaten. But instead of the typical mints or Jordan Almonds, how about a caramel apple? The epitomy of a fall treat, The Knot, a wedding site, suggests wrapping them in cellophane and tying with a ribbon to match the wedding colors. Autumn is the peak season for apple production, so take advantage of that. Apple Butter, store-bought or hand-made, in a pretty jar would make a memorable favor. Small, individually wrapped Apple Tarts would also leave a lasting impression. Try small bottles of apple cider, labeled with the couple's names and wedding date, or consider apple cider packets and cinnamon sticks. If the budget is a bit larger, display them in a mug with the couple's name on it.

Of course, there is always chocolate. Offer acorn or leaf shaped chocolates in individual boxes, or wrapped in foil. Martha Stewart's Wedding site suggests buying mini Hershey bars, remove the paper covering, leaving only the  foil. Then replace with clip art with the couple's initials or other words of love. Another clever idea from the same site recommends individual fondues. The use of Japanese tea cups and sushi plates make it perfect for one serving. Gourmet brownies are another option and can be served on sticks, like lollipops, dipped in chocolate and decorated.

Cookies are another tasty treat. Try a recipe in a fall flavor, like the Cinnamon-Orange Molasses Cookie. Cut into heart shapes and then display with a copper heart shaped cookie cutter for the guests to take home. More fall flavor options to consider could be pumpkin, gingersnaps or peanut butter.

The romantic light of a candle is the essence of romance and would make a perfect fall wedding favor. For the fall theme, search for candles in the rich hues of fall; burnt orange, brown, yellow, golds and deep pinks. Candles scented with nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla, spice and pumpkin are perfect for autumn. Potpourri is also available in the many colors and scents of autumn. Combine in a small jar and decorate with a ribbon for each guest.

Autumn is all about embracing the allure of the changing seasons and relishing the beauty of nature. So give wedding guests a piece of nature. A unique idea is a tree seedling. Wrapped in fancy paper and tied with ribbon, they can make a stunning gift for guests to take home. Bulbs and seeds are also available as wedding favors. They can be ordered in bulk online and can be personalized for the wedding.

Favors are given as a token of appreciation. They are a heartfelt thank you to the guests who have come to share in the couple's union and they should accurately represent the couple and their special day.

References:

• Weddings; Fall Wedding Favors

http://weddings.lovetoknow.com/wiki/Fall_Wedding_Fav ors

• The Knot; Real Weddings

http://wedding.theknot.com/real-weddings/fall-weddin gs/articles/10-fall-wedding-favor-ideas.aspx

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