Your October wedding can be warm and cozy despite the weather turning colder. Seek out the rich colors and patterns of the season for your wedding invitations and reception d'cor for a stylish look. Tap into the fresh fall foods and you'll have a delicious and seasonal menu perfect for your big day in October.

Invitations

Many think only of orange and black then they think of October. But the truth is that many rich colors and earth tones can go perfectly with your October wedding invitation. Match the changing leaves with reds, oranges, yellows and browns. Pair those colors with an opulent pattern like damask and you've got a lavish invitation for your October wedding. If orange is your color, don't be afraid to use it. It doesn't have to be paired with black ? making it look like a Halloween card. Choose a fiery orange and pair with cream or brown invitation and you'll have a fall look that doesn't even hint at Halloween.

Traditionally, the second Monday of October is Columbus Day. This might be a great chance to extend your wedding weekend if you and your guest typically have a day off for Columbus Day. Before picking your date and sending your wedding invitations, you might want to consult a Jewish calendar as there are a few Jewish holidays in the month of October. And, of course, Halloween is on October 31st. Unless you are planning a Halloween themed wedding, you might want to steer clear of getting married on this day.

Ceremony and reception

The October chill will drive most brides indoors for their ceremony and reception. But don't let this squelch your creativity. You might want to pick an indoor location that has a hearth or fireplace where you can perform your ceremony. If you're bringing the colors of the season into your ceremony, add some votive candles and accent with dried leaves to make your indoor ceremony feel like it is outside in nature.

October is harvest time and your menu should reflect those seasonal flavors. Start your meal with a warm soup or bisque instead of a cold salad. Your entr'e should be hot hearty also. If you're not a big red meat eater, you might want to try a warm, creamy chicken dish and grilled seasonal vegetables ? think squash, carrots, zucchini and potatoes. For an additional cozy accent, consider seating your guests at long ?harvest? tables for family-style service.

Your bar should include some big, rich red wines that will compliment your menu. For a signature cocktail try a pumpkin martini. Pumpkin liqueur can be hard to find, but worth it for a great fall drink. If you can't find it, ask your cater to provide you with a sweetened pumpkin puree or a pumpkin syrup. Add a hot cider for a warm non-alcoholic option.

Flowers

October's blooms can be limited in some areas. Your best bet might be to pick the colors you want and ask your florist to come up with some looks for you. Gerbera daisies are usually not hard to find and can be found in many colors. Roses are also another safe bet and available in lots of colors and shades. If you're sticking with fall hues, you might consider the Alstromeria, Snapdragons or Sunflowers.

Your October wedding doesn't have to revolve around Halloween. Rely on the great colors and fantastic flavors of the season that will treat your guests to a rich and cozy October wedding.