Rhiannon Hendricks
Planning a wedding can be a stressful and expensive process. If you're looking to save some money on decor, a rustic wedding might be the way to go. Rustic weddings are typically more laid-back and are dedicated to celebrating love in a natural setting. They often take place outdoors, in venues like gardens, farms, vineyards, or backyards, and are decorated with natural elements like wood, flowers, and greenery. But do all outdoor weddings have to be rustic? Not necessarily. While rustic weddings are often outdoors, not all outdoor weddings need to follow a rustic theme. Ultimately, it's up to the couple to choose the style that best represents them.
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What You'll Learn
Outdoor wedding venues
Outdoor weddings are a great option for couples who love nature and wide-open spaces. When it comes to choosing an outdoor wedding venue, there are numerous options to consider, from beachside locations to rustic barn celebrations.
If you're looking for a rustic wedding, you can opt for a garden estate or a private residence, which can provide a scenic outdoor location along with the necessary amenities like kitchen access, bathrooms, and electricity. Many couples prefer this option as it offers the best of both worlds, allowing for a slightly less formal atmosphere while still providing essential conveniences.
For those seeking a more intimate and cost-effective option, a backyard wedding at your own home or that of a friend or family member can be a perfect choice. This is especially suitable for smaller weddings, and you can always enhance the setting with beautiful decor to make your celebration memorable.
If you're fortunate enough to reside in a place with awe-inspiring natural scenery, such as Los Angeles County, you can take advantage of the diverse outdoor wedding venues available. Imagine exchanging vows on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, in a rooftop garden amidst city lights, or within a serene forest setting.
Additionally, all-inclusive packages offered by venues like Wedgewood Weddings can make planning more accessible and budget-friendly. These packages often include practical aspects like wedding insurance and even honeymoon savings.
Remember, when selecting an outdoor venue, consider the climate and the possibility of inclement weather. Choosing a venue with an indoor space can provide a backup plan to ensure your special day isn't spoiled by unexpected rain.
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Rustic wedding decor
Rustic weddings are all about creating a laid-back, natural vibe, often in an outdoor setting. If you're looking to create a rustic aesthetic for your wedding, here are some decor ideas to consider:
Venue
Rustic weddings typically take place in outdoor venues such as backyards, gardens, estates, barns, farms, vineyards, or ranches. These venues provide a beautiful natural backdrop for the ceremony and reception. If you're having an indoor wedding, you can still create a rustic feel by bringing the outdoors in with your decor and colour choices.
Colours
When it comes to colour palettes, rustic weddings usually centre around warm, muted, neutral tones that reflect the hues of nature. You can add pops of colour as you see fit, such as with flowers or other decor elements.
Flowers and Greenery
Speaking of flowers, consider using fresh flowers or greenery in your decor to add a natural touch. You can buy flowers in bulk and add them to your venue setup, cake, and centrepieces to tie your decor together. For a forest-inspired design, hang greenery over wooden arches and benches.
Lighting
The right lighting can also lend a rustic touch to your wedding. For an outdoor wedding, Edison bulbs or string lights can illuminate your space while creating a rustic, romantic backdrop. For an indoor wedding, transform the space with candlelight for a moody, sophisticated, yet rustic feel.
Dessert
Continue the rustic theme with your dessert by opting for a semi-naked cake. You can decorate it with fresh flowers or leave it unfrosted for a more rustic, naked cake effect.
Table Decor
For table decor, consider using little wood berry baskets, chalkboard labels, and candles to create a rustic vibe. You can also add lanterns and floral accents to your tablescape. If you're having an outdoor wedding, provide a bug spray station for your guests by wrapping the cans with marble contact paper and tying them with jute.
Remember, these are just some ideas to inspire your rustic wedding. You can tailor the rustic theme to make it uniquely yours!
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Dressing for a rustic wedding
If you've been invited to a rustic wedding, you may be wondering what to wear. In general, a rustic wedding refers to anything country, outdoorsy, or settled in nature with boho vibes. Think of a lovely old barn, an overlook in the countryside, an outdoor wedding, or something nestled among a garden.
For women, a sundress or maxi dress is a perfect rustic wedding outfit. Unlike traditional strappy or mini dresses, these dresses are cute, fun, and comfortable, allowing you to show off your favourite pair of boots. For Fall and Winter rustic weddings, focus on a natural mix of earth tones across tights, cardigans, dresses, skirts, and pants. You can also opt for floral prints, which are a great way to stay formal, fun, and comfortable, all while staying on theme. Don't be afraid to accessorize with florals, ribbons, and bows, which can be incorporated into your hairband, hairstyle, or even as ties around your waist or chest as an accent piece. This is your chance to show off your style and personality!
For men, you don't need to stick to traditional suits and ties. Instead, you can join in on the theme by choosing vests or blazers, and swapping out suit pants for khakis. Opt for dark brown or dark green suits or ties to stay on theme, and feel free to accessorize with suspenders, fun socks, and even bowties.
If you're the bride, a rustic wedding dress is all about enhancing your natural beauty and embracing your natural surroundings. This means leaning into some practical footwear, such as boots, which are comfortable, sturdy, and perfectly suited for that “home on the range” wedding vibe. A rustic wedding dress often features enchanting florals, flowing accents, and intricate bohemian details, made with breezy fabrics like lace, tulle, chiffon, and organza.
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Food and tableware
Planning an outdoor wedding is no easy feat, but it can be a beautiful and creative way to celebrate your special day. When it comes to food and tableware, there are a few things to consider to ensure your big day goes smoothly.
Food
Firstly, think about the time of year and the weather conditions you're likely to face. If you're planning a wedding during the hotter months, you'll need to take extra measures to keep food hot and drinks cold. Opting for passed appetizers and plated meals can help avoid pests that may be attracted to a buffet. Finger foods are also a great option for outdoor weddings, as they don't require formal sit-down dining tables, allowing for more flexibility in your setup.
If you're going for a rustic theme, comfort foods with a gourmet twist can be a great option. Think dressed-up mac and cheese, BBQ chicken, or a unique take on classic comfort foods. For a more western or southwestern vibe, tacos, brisket, or pulled pork can be delicious options. Don't be afraid to get creative and make your menu your own!
Tableware
When it comes to tableware, rustic weddings often feature wooden boards and slices, mason jars, lace, and twine. For a western rustic feel, consider using beaded glass, crystal, bronze, or brass tableware atop coordinating table runners. If you're looking for a more rustic-chic vibe, mix and match chair styles and incorporate vintage lace table runners and leather name tags for seating décor and food displays.
Don't forget to consider the practical aspects as well. Ensure your caterers have access to electricity and water, and a spacious, covered area to prepare food. If your venue doesn't have these facilities, you may need to rent a generator and additional equipment.
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Creating a rustic look
Choosing a venue
When it comes to choosing a venue for your rustic wedding, there are many options to consider. From garden estates and private residences to backyard weddings, you can create a beautiful rustic setting. If you're looking for a more intimate gathering, consider a backyard wedding at your own home or that of a friend or family member. These venues offer a scenic outdoor location and all the amenities you need, such as kitchen access, bathrooms, and electricity. Alternatively, you can also look into B&Bs, inns, and resorts, which often have accommodation options for your guests and are usually located in beautiful areas with plenty of outdoor ceremony options. If you're looking for a more unique setting, a raw event space like a warehouse can also be transformed into a rustic wonderland.
Decorations and colour palette
To create a rustic look, incorporate natural and organic elements into your decor. Use warm and muted colours that reflect the hues of nature, such as greens, browns, and neutrals. Bring the outdoors in with greenery and flowers as table decorations and consider adding a vintage touch with vintage dresses and decor. Create a romantic ambiance with candles and vintage lights, and add a dramatic central area for your ceremony with a rustic arch made of wood and adorned with foliage or flowers. For a unique touch, use hanging fairy lights or string lights to illuminate your space.
Food and drinks
Incorporate the rustic theme into your food and drinks by setting up an alfresco cocktail hour with a bar made from wine barrels and topped with a wooden board. Accent it with dried flowers for a gorgeous display. For a fun twist, create a bug spray station by wrapping cans with marble contact paper and tying them with jute. Add a cute sign, place them in a basket, and your guests will surely appreciate this thoughtful touch.
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Frequently asked questions
No, they do not. While rustic weddings are typically held outdoors, you can have an outdoor wedding without incorporating rustic elements.
A rustic wedding is an outdoor-inspired, laid-back, and cozy celebration that takes place in a natural setting. It often involves rustic wedding decorations and a simple, no-frills style.
Planning a rustic wedding can involve choosing a natural setting, such as a garden estate, a backyard, a barn, a farm, a vineyard, or a ranch. You can incorporate rustic elements such as wooden cutting boards, baskets, and metal buckets for serving food, and use warm and muted colors that reflect the hues of nature.
