There’s something truly magical about fall weddings. With leaves turning and the air turning crisp, every moment seems embraced by golden light and cozy warmth. As a wedding planner (and a self-confessed decor enthusiast!), I’ve always found that lighting—specifically, lanterns—make a remarkable difference in setting that enchanting autumn atmosphere. But as we look ahead to the 2025 fall wedding decor trends, what lantern colors are poised to steal the show?

If you’re planning your own wedding, helping a couple bring their vision to life, or designing a fall event, selecting the right fall wedding lantern colors is absolutely key. In this post, I’ll break down the modern fall wedding color palette, explore the best nylon and paper lantern shades for the season, and show you how to create dreamy, layered looks using burnt orange, burgundy, gold, ivory and more.

Let’s discover which earthy tone lanterns for weddings are trending, how to style them for maximum impact, and how to blend classic coziness with bold, personal style!

Why Lanterns Are the Heartbeat of Autumn Wedding Decor

Picture this: A soft glow spills across tabletops, casting shadows on old barn wood or trailing up the beams of a vineyard barn. Paper and nylon lanterns are more than just lighting—they’re little orbs of ambiance that instantly make your wedding space feel warm, romantic, and inviting. It’s the easiest way to add texture, color, and luxury, whether you’re hanging them overhead, lining a walkway, or clustering them for a statement centerpiece.

• Versatile: Nylon lanterns withstand outdoor elements, while paper lanterns are ideal for indoor or covered spaces.
• Layered Visuals: A mix of colors, sizes, and textures to create dynamic displays.
• Sustainable Decor: Reusable and recyclable materials appeal to eco-conscious couples.
• Easy Customization: Add floral, greenery, candles, or metallic accents for a personal touch.

The Modern Fall Wedding Color Palette: What’s Hot in 2025

After many seasons of neutrals, 2025 celebrates a bold return to earthy luxury and expressive color. Couples are drawn to rich, warm tones—think burnt orange wedding lanterns, burgundy wedding lanterns, and plush pops of magenta and teal lanterns. The secret? Layering these hues against cozy textures and metallics.

Top Trending Paper and Nylon Lantern Colors for Fall Weddings:

• Burnt Orange & Terracotta - The definition of autumn warmth and rustic charm.
• Burgundy & Red Wines - Timeless sophistication that fits both rustic barns and elegant ballrooms.
• Gold & Ochre - Modern metallics bring vibrancy and light throughout your venue.
• Ivory & Muted Mauve - Soften bold colors with gentle, ethereal neutrals.
• Pumpkin & Sage - Embrace the spectrum of fall, pairing pumpkin spice with lush greens.
• Cranberry & Peach - A juicy, unexpected twist for couples wanting something different.
• Navy & Slate Blue - Deep and dreamy for sophisticated evening settings.
• Dark Purples & Lavender - Whisper of romance with a moody edge.
• Dark Green, Olive, & Dusty Blue - For woodland, vineyard, or boho settings.
• Magenta & Teal - Bold and playful; perfect for statement-making designs.
• Pale Pink, Blush - Layer with darker hues for dimensional color stories.

Styling Ideas: How to Layer Your Fall Wedding Lantern Colors

When it comes to styling, there are endless ways to include trending nylon lantern colors and trending paper lantern colors in your design. Here’s how I like to approach it for maximum impact:

• For Outdoor Venues:
  Mix durable nylon lanterns in burnt orange, burgundy, and gold, then suspend them between trees, along barn rafters, or over ranch courtyards.
• For Indoor or Tent Setups:
  Cluster paper lanterns in complementary tones (sage, terracotta, dusty blue, dark green) overhead in layered heights, or add statement lanterns above the sweetheart table.
• Centerpiece Ideas:
  • Place lanterns on wooden rounds with mini pumpkins, eucalyptus sprays, and pillar candles.
  • Fill glass or metal lanterns with seasonal flowers (chrysanthemums, asters, celosias), pampas grass, or moss for that "earthy luxe" feeling.