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Writer's picturePriscilla Kennedy

Ten Steps To A Rustic Wedding

Updated: Jul 20, 2023


10 Rustic Wedding Ideas for a Simple Celebration


Intro

Are you planning a rustic wedding and looking for some simple and unique wedding ideas? Whether you're wanting a traditional country-style celebration or something more modern and minimalist, there are plenty of ways to make your rustic wedding a beautiful and memorable event. Here are 10 rustic wedding ideas to help you create the perfect simple wedding.


1) Choose the Right Venue

One of the most important things to consider when planning a rustic wedding is the venue. Your chosen location will set the tone for the entire celebration, so it's essential to pick one that fits with your vision.

When searching for the perfect rustic wedding venue, consider places like barns, farms, and vineyards. These settings provide a natural charm and will complement your rustic theme beautifully.



You may also want to look for a venue that offers outdoor space. Rustic weddings tend to focus on the beauty of nature, and incorporating natural elements like trees, flowers, and fields will help to create a magical atmosphere for your celebration.


Keep in mind that a rustic venue may come with some challenges, such as limited electricity or water access. It's essential to factor in these details when making your decision, as they may affect your overall plan for the wedding.

Ultimately, the right venue should reflect your unique style and personality. Take the time to explore different options and consider how they can be transformed to fit your rustic wedding theme. With the perfect location, you'll be on your way to creating a beautiful, memorable celebration.


2) Incorporate Natural Elements

One of the most important aspects of a rustic wedding is the use of natural elements to create a charming and down-to-earth atmosphere. Whether it's the use of wildflowers in your bouquets, incorporating wooden or stone elements in your decor, or even just choosing a venue with a beautiful outdoor space, nature is key to achieving a rustic vibe.

Consider using a mix of textures and materials, such as burlap, linen, and lace, to bring a rustic and natural feel to your decorations. You can even add a touch of greenery by including potted plants or herbs in your centerpieces. These elements will not only add a rustic feel but also give your wedding a touch of freshness and life.


When it comes to incorporating natural elements, you don't need to limit yourself to just one area. Consider incorporating them into all aspects of your wedding, from your invitations to your table settings and even your wedding favors. For example, you could create rustic-inspired invitations that feature natural elements such as leaves or flowers, and then use similar elements throughout your wedding to tie everything together.

Overall, incorporating natural elements into your rustic wedding is an excellent way to add charm, warmth, and a touch of the outdoors to your special day. With the right mix of textures and materials, you can create a cozy and intimate atmosphere that will leave you and your guests feeling relaxed, refreshed, and truly at one with nature.





3) Go for Neutral Colors

When it comes to rustic weddings, neutral colors are the way to go. Earthy tones like beige, brown, and gray will add a touch of warmth and elegance to your wedding theme. You can even add pops of color to create contrast, such as sage green, dusty blue, or blush pink.

The best thing about using neutral colors is that they match almost any setting or backdrop. Whether you choose a rustic barn or a wooded area, neutral colors will seamlessly blend in with your surroundings.

When it comes to bridesmaid dresses and groomsmen suits, keep it simple and opt for shades of beige, gray, or even white. Not only will this look timeless, but it will also make your wedding photos stand out.

To incorporate neutral colors into your decor, think about using natural materials like burlap, linen, and wood. These elements will add texture and depth to your wedding aesthetic. You can also add in some metallic accents to add a touch of glamour.

Overall, going for neutral colors is an easy way to achieve a rustic look and feel. So, if you're looking to keep things simple, elegant, and timeless, this color palette is the perfect choice.



4) Opt for DIY Decorations

One way to achieve a rustic feel in your wedding is to incorporate DIY decorations. This not only adds a personal touch to your big day but also helps you save money in the process.

One of the simplest DIY decoration ideas is to use mason jars. These versatile jars can be used for centerpieces, hanging lanterns, or even as vases for your flowers. You can also tie a piece of twine or burlap around them to add an extra rustic touch.













Another DIY decoration idea is to use old pallets to create signs or photo frames. These can be placed around the venue to add a charming rustic touch. You can also use wooden crates as stands for your flowers, or even as a base for your dessert table.

If you’re feeling crafty, you can also make your own bunting flags or garlands to decorate the venue. You can use materials like burlap, lace, or twine to create a unique look that fits your rustic theme.

Lastly, don’t forget about your table settings. You can use vintage plates, silverware, and glassware to add an extra touch of charm to your reception. You can also create your own place cards by using twine and brown kraft paper.

Overall, opting for DIY decorations is a great way to add a personal touch to your wedding while sticking to your rustic theme. It’s also a great way to get your friends and family involved in the planning process and create lasting memories together.















5) Consider a Barn or Farmhouse Theme

One of the most popular themes for a rustic wedding is a barn or farmhouse theme. This theme perfectly encapsulates the simplicity and beauty of rural life, and it creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere for your guests.

When choosing a venue for your wedding, consider looking for a barn or farmhouse with a charming and rustic aesthetic. These types of venues often have a lot of natural beauty, such as exposed wooden beams, wide-open fields, and beautiful gardens. You can also use the venue's existing decor to your advantage and incorporate rustic elements like old farm tools or vintage signs into your decor.

Another benefit of choosing a barn or farmhouse theme is that it lends itself well to DIY decorations. Mason jars filled with wildflowers, burlap table runners, and handmade signs are all perfect examples of DIY decor that can add to the rustic ambiance of your wedding. You can also get creative with your seating arrangements by using mismatched chairs or antique church pews.

For food and drinks, consider serving classic farm-style dishes like roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, and hearty soups. You can also include rustic-inspired cocktails like spiked cider or a bourbon-based drink. Serve everything on wooden boards or vintage plates to complete the theme.

In summary, a barn or farmhouse theme is a great choice for a rustic wedding. With the right venue, decorations, and food, you can create a charming and intimate atmosphere that celebrates the beauty of rural life.



6) Serve Rustic-Inspired Food and Drinks

The food and drinks you serve at your rustic wedding can help set the tone for your entire celebration. Whether you’re going for a casual BBQ vibe or an elegant, farm-to-table feast, there are plenty of ways to incorporate rustic-inspired flavors into your menu.

For starters, consider serving local, seasonal fare that highlights the flavors of the region where you’re getting married. This could include fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs, as well as meats and cheeses from local farms and artisanal producers.

In terms of drinks, consider serving craft beers or local wines that reflect the terroir of the area. You might also want to offer signature cocktails that feature ingredients like bourbon, cider, or honey, which are all popular in rustic-inspired drinks.

When it comes to presentation, keep things simple and rustic. Opt for family-style or buffet-style meals that allow guests to mingle and share food, or consider setting up a BBQ station or wood-fired pizza oven for a fun and interactive meal option.

Ultimately, the key to serving rustic-inspired food and drinks is to focus on quality, simplicity, and authenticity. By incorporating local and seasonal ingredients, emphasizing casual presentation, and highlighting the flavors and traditions of your region, you can create a wedding menu that is as unique and memorable as your special day.



7) Use Wooden Accents

One of the best ways to create a rustic vibe for your wedding is to incorporate wooden accents. Wooden decor elements are easy to find, affordable, and versatile. Plus, they add warmth and texture to your wedding decor, creating a cozy and natural feel.

There are many ways to use wooden accents for your wedding. For example, you could use wooden tables and chairs for your reception, or add wooden signs to guide your guests around the venue. You could also use wooden crates as centerpieces or hang wooden frames from tree branches to create a rustic backdrop for your photos.

Another great way to incorporate wooden accents is to use them for your place cards and table numbers. You can easily make your own wooden place cards by cutting small pieces of wood and writing your guests' names with a marker or paint. You could also use wooden blocks or slices to display your table numbers, which will look beautiful against the backdrop of your wooden table and chairs.

Finally, don't forget about wooden accessories for your wedding attire. For example, you could wear a wooden watch or cufflinks, or incorporate wooden elements into your bouquet or boutonniere. These small touches will tie in your rustic theme and add some natural texture to your look.

Overall, wooden accents are a must-have for any rustic wedding. They are simple, charming, and add a natural touch that will make your celebration feel cozy and intimate. So don't hesitate to add some wooden elements to your decor and attire, and embrace the beauty of rustic simplicity.


8) Embrace Imperfection in Your Details

One of the key elements of a rustic wedding is its organic feel, and nothing can achieve that better than embracing imperfection. Imperfection adds character and charm to the entire event, making it unique and memorable.

For instance, rather than obsessing over perfect table settings, consider using mismatched plates, cutlery, and glasses for a more rustic feel. You can even consider using handmade crockery to add more charm and personality to the table settings.

Additionally, if you're incorporating natural elements like flowers and greenery, try to avoid perfection by using wildflowers or slightly uneven bouquets. This will add to the organic feel of the event.

Embracing imperfection also extends to the overall atmosphere. Consider using burlap or linen tablecloths that may not be perfect but contribute to the rustic charm. Additionally, handmade signage and other details like a chalkboard menu can also contribute to this theme.

The key is to not stress about every detail being perfect, but rather to let the natural, slightly imperfect elements add character and charm to your special day. Embracing the imperfections is what makes a rustic wedding feel authentic and unforgettable.


9) Create a Cozy and Intimate Atmosphere

One of the most important aspects of a rustic wedding is creating a warm and intimate atmosphere that allows your guests to feel welcome and comfortable. Here are a few tips to help you achieve this cozy ambiance:

1. Use Soft Lighting: Soft lighting can add warmth to any space and create a cozy atmosphere. Try incorporating lanterns, string lights, and candles to your decor to achieve the desired effect.

2. Choose Comfortable Seating: If you're having an outdoor ceremony or reception, consider using comfortable seating options such as hay bales, wooden benches, or cozy lounge areas to allow your guests to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

3. Set the Tone with Music: The right music can create a relaxed and inviting ambiance. Choose songs that fit your rustic theme, or create a playlist of soft, soothing music that will make your guests feel at ease.

4. Incorporate Personal Touches: Adding personal touches to your decor can help create a cozy atmosphere. Use items that have sentimental value or that reflect your personalities to create a warm and inviting ambiance.

5. Offer Warm Beverages: For fall or winter weddings, consider serving warm drinks such as hot cocoa, cider, or tea to your guests. This will help create a cozy atmosphere and keep your guests warm and comfortable.

By following these simple tips, you can create a cozy and intimate atmosphere for your rustic wedding. Remember, it's the little details that can make all the difference and create an unforgettable celebration for you and your guests.


10) Use Vintage Items to Add Charm and Character.

One of the key elements of a rustic wedding is the charm and character that comes with it. One great way to achieve this is by incorporating vintage items into your wedding decor. These can include items such as antique picture frames, old suitcases, vintage signage, or even an old typewriter. Not only do these items add character to your wedding, but they can also be a great conversation starter for guests.

If you're unsure where to find vintage items, consider visiting local antique stores or flea markets. You can also ask family and friends if they have any vintage items that they'd be willing to lend or donate for your special day. Alternatively, there are a variety of online retailers that specialize in vintage decor, such as Etsy.

When incorporating vintage items into your wedding decor, be sure to keep your overall wedding theme and color scheme in mind. You don't want your vintage items to clash with your other decorations. Additionally, consider incorporating vintage items into other aspects of your wedding, such as using an old suitcase for your card box or incorporating vintage postcards into your guest book.

Overall, incorporating vintage items into your wedding decor is a great way to add charm and character to your special day. Whether it's an antique picture frame or an old typewriter, these items are sure to add a touch of nostalgia and make your wedding truly unique.

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