The Boho Wedding: Elements Of A Bohemian Wedding

Planning a wedding and considering a bohemian theme? The boho trend is here to stay and is a popular choice for many couples due to its ethereal, romantic, and earthy feel. Derived from the free-spirited, hippie-like style of the late '60s and early '70s, bohemian weddings are all about artistic self-expression, blending with nature, and creating a whimsical, relaxed ambiance.

From fashion to decor, here's an introduction to the key elements that make a bohemian wedding.

Bohemian wedding attire

A bohemian wedding is all about channelling a free-spirited, artistic, almost hippy-like style. Bohemian wedding attire is therefore all about romantic, light, comfortable, and flowy fabrics that make you feel in harmony with yourself and nature.

For the bride, a bohemian wedding dress is typically flowy, romantic, and light. A bohemian bride might also choose to wear a flower crown, a wide-brimmed hat, or a golden feather headpiece. For an extra touch of glamour, a diamond-and-turquoise ring, a diamond and mother-of-pearl bracelet, a woven friendship bracelet, initial earrings, and a unique body chain can be added.

For the groom, a quirky crochet dress or a Lilliputian bridal dress can showcase their bohemian, hippie nature. The groom can also incorporate shows of red and purple hues into this eccentric style.

For wedding guests, statement neckpieces or some exquisite wooden hoops can be worn to embrace the unique style of a bohemian wedding.

Wedding decor

For a bohemian wedding, you might choose to decorate your venue with natural elements like dream catchers, wildflowers, boho rugs, and fairy lights. You could also incorporate macramé, for example, by hanging macramé plant hangers or using macramé placemats for your table settings. To make a statement, hang flower chandeliers or create a ceiling installation with candles, brass accents, and hanging tassels.

When it comes to your table settings, don't be afraid to mix and match. Go for gauzy table runners and mismatched linens in earthy colours like beige, ivory, green, and blush. You can also add pops of colour with coloured glassware and napkins. For an extra boho touch, decorate your tables with vintage glass cloches housing individual blooms.

If you're having an outdoor wedding, you might want to opt for naturalistic bench seating, such as tree stump benches, or even cushioned rugs and pillows for a super-relaxed picnic-style reception. For an indoor wedding, you could choose a contemporary, rustic venue with white linen draperies, parquet floors, and redwood seats.

The devil is in the detail when it comes to wedding decor, so think about adding unique touches like quartz seating cards, flower crowns for your guests, or even a glamping tent for a truly nomadic experience.

Music

Live Instrumentation

Consider incorporating live instrumentation into your wedding music. This could mean hiring a band or individual musicians to perform during the ceremony, cocktail hour, or reception. Live music adds a unique and memorable touch to your celebration and can be tailored to fit your specific theme and style. For example, you could feature a fiddle player or a guitarist to create a relaxed and rustic atmosphere.

Thematic Relevance

When selecting your wedding music, choose songs that reflect the bohemian aesthetic. Think about the overall mood and atmosphere you want to create. The music should complement the natural, earthy, and romantic elements of your bohemian wedding. Soft, romantic ballads, folk music, or even some classic rock and roll from the 1960s and 1970s could be a perfect fit.

DJ or Band

You'll need to decide whether you want a DJ or a band to provide the musical entertainment for your wedding. Both options have their advantages. A DJ may offer more variety in terms of song selection and can often be more affordable. On the other hand, a live band can provide a unique, energetic performance that your guests will remember. If you opt for a DJ, be sure to communicate your musical preferences clearly to ensure they understand the bohemian theme.

Ceremony Music

The music for your ceremony sets the tone for the entire event. Consider choosing songs that reflect the beauty of nature and the free-spirited nature of your bohemian celebration. Instrumental pieces featuring acoustic guitar, piano, or violin can create a beautiful and intimate atmosphere. You could also incorporate nature-inspired songs or those with meaningful lyrics that reflect your journey as a couple.

Reception Music

The reception is where you and your guests will let loose and celebrate. Choose music that will get everyone on the dance floor! A mix of upbeat songs from various genres, such as folk, indie, and classic rock, can be a great way to appeal to a wide range of musical tastes. Don't be afraid to throw in some current pop hits as well to get everyone involved.

Special Dances

If you plan on having special dances, such as the first dance or father-daughter dance, carefully select songs that hold personal meaning for you and your partner. These songs should reflect your relationship and can be an opportunity to showcase your unique love story. Whether it's a song that was playing during your first date or a tune that captures the essence of your relationship, make it something memorable.

In conclusion, music plays a crucial role in creating an unforgettable bohemian wedding. By choosing thematically appropriate songs and creating a relaxed and whimsical atmosphere, you can ensure that your big day truly embodies the bohemian spirit.

Venue

The venue is a crucial aspect of a bohemian wedding, offering a blank canvas to create a dreamy, whimsical setting. Here are some ideas to consider for a boho-chic venue:

Outdoor Venues

Embrace the beauty of nature by opting for an outdoor venue. Imagine exchanging vows under a canopy of lush trees or with a stunning natural backdrop like a beach, desert, or garden. If you're lucky enough to live near the coast, a beach wedding is a perfect choice, with the sand-coloured surroundings coordinating seamlessly with the neutral tones of a boho aesthetic. Alternatively, a desert wedding is also a sublime option, where the sandy hues and natural landscape align with the earthy palette of bohemian style.

If you're seeking a more unique outdoor venue, consider a glamping site. This eclectic and nomadic option captures the free-spirited essence of bohemian weddings. It can serve as both a getting-ready space and a romantic wedding-night destination, offering an unforgettable experience.

Rustic Venues with a Modern Twist

If an outdoor venue isn't feasible, you can achieve a similar ambiance by choosing a rustic venue with modern touches. Look for wedding houses that offer refined settings while maintaining a warm and relaxing atmosphere. Think white linen draperies, parquet floors, redwood seats, and bare brick walls. Add custom neon signs instead of chandeliers to create a unique and affordable statement piece that reflects your wedding style.

Vintage Airstreams

For something truly unique, consider a venue with vintage airstreams. These retro trailers can serve as a charming backdrop for your nuptials, adding a touch of vintage charm to your bohemian celebration.

Naturalistic Seating

When considering seating for your venue, think outside the box. Instead of traditional folding or dining chairs, opt for naturalistic seating options like tree stump benches. Not only do they bring in elements of nature, but they also create a whimsical and earthy feel. Just ensure that you provide suitable seating for older or disabled guests.

Bohemian Decor

To transform your venue into a bohemian paradise, incorporate decor elements such as dream catchers, wildflowers, boho rugs, and fairy lights, and macramé. Use natural materials like light wood, wicker, and stones, and don't be afraid to mix and match different patterns and fabrics to create a truly eclectic and bohemian space.

So, whether you choose a breathtaking outdoor venue or a rustic indoor space, remember to embrace the beauty of nature, incorporate earthy tones, and add whimsical touches to create a venue that embodies the free-spirited essence of a bohemian wedding.

Bohemian wedding cake

A bohemian wedding cake is typically natural and organic in appearance, with fresh flowers, herbs, and fruits used to decorate. The cake can be white, but it should have a natural, earthy colour palette, such as burnt orange, terracotta, or sage.

Boho wedding cakes often feature textured buttercream, with a single or multiple tiers, and a collection of leaves and blooms on top. They can also incorporate natural, dried elements such as pampas grass, dried palm leaves, and baby's breath. Gold leaf is another popular addition, creating a textured, luxurious look.

For a more subtle take on the bohemian cake, opt for a white cake with just a hint of textured pattern and some organic dried greenery and leaves. You could also choose a colourful geode design with marble tiers, or a bright yellow cake with colour-washed buttercream and intricate piped flowers.

If you're having a fall wedding, consider a cake with burnt orange and earth tones, or a clear tier showcasing colour and texture. You could also add a pop of colour with crimson thistles on a muted pink tier. For a winter wedding, top a white cake with red and white blooms, thistles, and sprigs of greenery.

Boho cakes can also be black, with dried textured elements, or a colourful rainbow design with textured detailing. For a beach wedding, a moody turquoise cake with pops of orange and coral is a great choice.

Frequently asked questions