A rustic wedding theme is a beautiful way to create a laidback, romantic atmosphere for your special day. Rustic weddings are inspired by nature, simple decor, and a cosy countryside or barn aesthetic. They focus on creating a warm, relaxed vibe using natural elements like wood, greenery, and neutral tones. The rustic theme allows you to pick and choose DIY decor to reflect your personal style.
Choosing a Rustic Wedding Venue
When planning a rustic wedding, your venue sets the overall aesthetic. Barns, a farm wedding venue, and outdoor spaces like fields, forests or gardens make ideal rustic wedding venues. Look for places with wood beams, stone walls, vintage windows, and an overall countryside vibe, like idyllic barn wedding venues near Manchester or rustic wedding venues in Oswestry. Tents, tipis or marquees can also recreate the rustic feel. If booking an indoor venue, add rustic touches like burlap, lanterns, and wildflower arrangements.
Rustic Wedding Decor Ideas
Decor is key for achieving that rustic wedding look. Here are some unique DIY decor ideas for a rustic wedding:
- Make tree slice table numbers by cutting tree slices and writing numbers with paint or wood burning tools.
- Craft geometric terrariums using air plants for centrepieces.
- Design a backdrop wall with old window frames, shutters, and dangling greenery.
- Use slices of wood for table runners and scatter loose eucalyptus leaves and wildflowers.
- Craft signage or seating charts out of old barn wood.
- Make a “wishing well” using an old bucket and burlap.
- Use hay bales for rustic seating around outdoor fires or drink stations.
- Create escort cards attached to clothespins and displayed on a string.
- Decorate the dance floor with chalkboard tile “photo booth” for guests to sign.
- Use vintage books, stacked crates, and potted ferns to embellish drink bars or buffet tables.
- Display candles in different sized mason jars wrapped in lace and jute.
- Make a polaroid guestbook wall with clips and string lights.
The possibilities are endless for fun, nature-inspired DIY projects to personalise your rustic wedding style!
Rustic Wedding Attire
Your wedding day style should complement your rustic venue and decor. For brides, boho-chic gowns work beautifully, like those with lace, crochet detailing or floaty fabrics. Pair with cowboy boots or casual wedding shoes. Add a delicate flower crown or vintage hair accessory. Grooms can keep it relaxed with linen or tweed suits, suspenders, and casual footwear. Bridesmaids could wear simple summery dresses or elegant two-pieces. Flower crowns, braids, and loose waves suit the natural vibe.
Rustic Wedding Food & Drink
Think hearty, homemade comfort foods and drinks for catering. Barbecues, hog roasts, street food stalls, grazing tables, and family-style platters make fantastic rustic wedding fare. Have a help-yourself drink station with sangria, beer, lemonade and iced tea in mason jars and pitchers. Also serve seasonal fruits, vegetables, cheese, bread and cake on wooden boards for a rustic touch. Late night snack options like wood fired pizza and crepes will delight guests.
With the right combination of venue, decor, attire and catering, you can achieve a wonderfully cozy and romantic rustic wedding filled with personal touches. Focus on simplicity, and nature and create a laidback country vibe for a unique celebration.
