If you are in that exciting stage of trying to decide what type of wedding you want to have, or maybe you have just started researching to get a little inspiration, there’s no doubt that you’ve probably come across the rustic theme. We are here to provide you with the perfect guide to achieving this ever-so-popular look (and there is a reason for its popularity).
This theme is perfect for that laid-back couple that is not looking for a fancy over-the-top vibe for their big day. It is more about simplicity rather than chandeliers, pearls, and crystal centerpieces.
A huge trend within the rustic theme is the idea of a DIY or do-it-yourself wedding. Many brides who decide on the DIY decor are often drawn to a rustic-themed event. This trend takes inspiration from using what is around you in nature and is most often held in an outdoor space. It is also very popular among environmentally conscious brides. It’s all about that little Southern flare – and a whole lot of good vibes and mingling – so let’s get down to it!
The Perfect Rustic Venue
Finding a rustic wedding space isn’t too hard. A farm, field, or anywhere that has a barn are all great options. You want it to be the picture-perfect outdoor setting!
This space should really set the mood for the event. The most ideal venue space for achieving this rustic theme is a barn. We love it when we can utilize what the venue already has to offer in your decor. Farms and barns are great because they have beautiful trees and landscaping, countryside-inspired signs, and usually some sort of horse fencing.
Some of our favorite Southern California rustic styled venues are Forever and Always Farm in Murrieta, Sacred Mountain in Julian, the Condor’s Nest Ranch in Pala, and Sweet Pea Ranch in Upland. We even wrote an entire post about unique venues in Temecula, California. Just take a look at this rustic wedding at Forever and Always Farm with a cute, furry farm friend!
Forever & Always Farm. Credit: The McFarlands
Rustic Rentals
Rustic Reception. Credit: Hannah Arista Photography
Rentals on your big day are a great way to really showcase the rustic/barn vibe you are going for. When it comes to your rentals, think simple and think wood. Wooden tables are a great option for reception seating or a sweetheart table. Barrels are also great for rustic weddings. Think about a barrel table for the dessert display or maybe even as an escort table.
If you want something a little more unique than a wooden chair or white farm chair when it comes to reception seating, benches are a wonderful alternative. They give off a very laid-back, casual, and friendly vibe that will set a great mood for your event. If you decide you want lounge area seating, go for more neutral colors with wood accent tables.
Now let’s talk ceremony rentals. A classic wood arch works great for a rustic wedding and they are available from most rental companies. For a little extra flare, think about renting some rustic barn doors as an entrance to your ceremony aisle. If you are really trying to go Country-Western, swap out ceremony chairs for hay barrels!
Rustic Signage
Wooden Sign & Chalkboard Sign. Credit: One Love Photography
The signage around your wedding may seem like a minor and unimportant detail. It is so easy, though, to incorporate a rustic/barn theme with it!
Having fun little signs around your venue also adds a touch of personalization to the day. When it comes to sign options, a wooden material with pretty white writing really stands out and ties into the rustic theme super well. Add a touch of greenery and some florals around the sign to brighten it up. Use these signs for the escort chart, dessert table, entrance, or even as table numbers.
Another great signage option for your rustic barn-inspired event is a chalkboard-style sign. This is a great one for those DIY brides. You can put country-inspired sayings on the signs to really get your guests in the mood!
Rustic Wedding Decor
Decorating your rustic space is sure to be loads of fun! There are a variety of different decor items that can be used throughout the space. Some of our favorites are barrels, buckets, vintage barn doors, lanterns, wooden ladders, wooden crates, tree slices, and variations of vintage glass vases.
- Barrels work wonders as sign holders or even look great with a pretty floral arrangement on top.
- Place metal buckets around the ground and fill them with flowers for a simple and easy decor element.
- There are many rental companies that offer vintage or barn doors. Add some greenery and florals to it and they look lovely as a photo op area!
- Lanterns are great centerpieces and are an easy way to add some height variations on tables.
- On a wooden ladder, showcase photos of you and your future husband or wife, or even throw cute little desserts with florals on it.
- Wooden crates are another great way to add some height variations to your decor, and they work perfectly as floral and dessert stands.
- Tree slices have gained a lot of popularity in the wedding world, especially with the rustic theme. They are perfect to incorporate in your centerpieces for the reception tables.
- To top it all off, add some globe string lights or café style lights along the outside area to light up the night!
Rustic Barn Wedding Decor (Lantern & Wood Crate). Credit: John Robert Woods Photography
The Perfect Rustic Style Attire
The awesome part about a rustic/barn wedding is that you have many more options when it comes to your attire. One of the misconceptions about the rustic theme is that you have to use a neutral color palette, but really, you can incorporate almost any color scheme that you’d like!
Having a rustic inspired wedding during the Fall season? You can most certainly have burgundy-toned bridesmaid’s dresses. Obsessed with blue hues? Have your groomsmen wear varying shades.
One suggestion we do have when it comes to your rustic wedding day is that casual attire suits the theme best. Rustic weddings have a much more laid-back vibe with the natural-inspired decor and calm outdoor venue setting. We love to see brown accessories in the groom and groomsmen outfits such as brown dress shoes, suspenders, or even a watch. When it comes to finding your perfect wedding dress, a bohemian style looks great with a rustic theme. Don’t be afraid to try a more casual cut such as a cap sleeve. If you are really trying to embrace the rustic barn look and incorporate more of a Southern/Country vibe, have your bridal party rock some fun cowboy boots!
BHLDN Gown at Rustic Wedding. Credit: India Earl
A rustic barn wedding is an excellent choice for any size wedding, big or small. It also looks great during any season of the year. It’s a fantastic option if you are looking to really personalize your decor. You can add so many natural romantic elements to it. Whether you decide on a simpler, eco-friendly rustic look or a full-on, countryside extravaganza, this theme is always a crowd pleaser and looks lovely in photos.