There’s something undeniably magical about the countryside. Rolling hills, golden sunsets, and the gentle whisper of the breeze through the trees provide the perfect backdrop for couples looking to tie the knot. It’s little wonder at all that country weddings have become increasingly popular. They’re natural, rustic, and offer a relaxed atmosphere that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.
In this blog, we’ll going to be talking about the many reasons why country weddings capture our hearts and imaginations, from their laid-back vibe to the stunning decor possibilities that embrace earthy tones and natural greenery. Whether you’re already planning your dream rustic wedding or trying to decide on a theme and want some inspo, this is the perfect rustic wedding guide.
Why are country weddings so appealing?
We’re jumping straight in with this blog’s million-dollar question! Country weddings are the perfect mix of simplicity and elegance. Unlike traditional weddings, which often feel formal and structured, a country wedding embraces a more casual, carefree vibe. This makes them ideal for couples who want their big day to feel intimate and just a bit more chilled out.
Natural settings
Nature is the star (aside from the bride and groom of course!) of a country wedding. Doesn’t saying your vows under a canopy of trees, with wildflowers at your feet and a backdrop of rolling fields or distant mountains sound positively dreamy? These settings not only look stunning but also create a calm and serene atmosphere for you and your guests.
Rustic charm
Country weddings celebrate imperfection in the best way possible. Reclaimed wood, vintage lanterns, and mason jars filled with simple greenery create an atmosphere of rustic charm. Hay bales can double as seating (throw a rug on them for comfort as they can be a little itchy), and wooden signs pointing the way to the ceremony or reception add a whimsical touch.
Relaxed atmosphere
One of the biggest draws of a country wedding is the relaxed, unpretentious vibe. Guests can kick off their shoes and dance under the stars, enjoy a hearty hog roast, or sip on lemonade from mason jars. The informal setting makes everyone feel at ease and ensures your wedding feels like a celebration, not a performance.
If all of this sounds exactly how you’re picturing your special day, then the next question on the tip of your tongue is probably, “how do I create a country wedding?”. Well, you’re in luck as we’ve got lots of tips and ideas coming up.
Popular country wedding venues and decor ideas
The right venue sets the tone for your country wedding. Popular options include barns, open fields, vineyards, and even orchards. Each has its own unique charm:
Barns: Rustic yet versatile, barns can be dressed up with fairy lights, draped fabric, and rustic furniture.
Fields: Perfect for a tented reception or an open-air ceremony.
Vineyards and orchards: Combine natural beauty with the romance of wine and fruit blossoms.
For décor, embrace simplicity such as:
Using wooden tables and benches for dining, decorated with greenery runners.
Hanging string lights or Edison bulbs for a soft, romantic glow.
Incorporating vintage elements like old wagons, wooden barrels, or lace tablecloths.
Featuring natural materials like burlap, jute, and linen.
Country wedding colour palette ideas
Country weddings are all about blending with nature, so earthy tones and natural greenery are the perfect choice. Popular colours include:
Greens: From willow greens to olive and sage, these tones provide a fresh, natural look.
Light browns: Think tan, beige, and even soft amber for a touch of warmth.
Amber sunset: Add subtle pops of orange or gold for a romantic, sunset-inspired palette.
When it comes to flowers, less is more, so opt for lots of greenery, such as eucalyptus, ivy, or ferns, with minimal blooms. Wildflowers or soft, neutral-toned flowers like white roses or daisies can add a delicate touch without overpowering the greenery.
Styling the bride and groom for a country wedding
Country weddings call for outfits that are both stylish and comfortable:
For the Bride: Soft, flowing dresses in lace or chiffon fit the theme perfectly. You may even want to consider pairing your dress with cowboy boots for a fun twist (also great if you anticipate having to navigate muddy or uneven terrain!) or add a flower crown made of greenery for a boho vibe.
For the Groom: Ditch the tuxedo for something more relaxed, we’re thinking tweed vests, suspenders, or even a crisp white shirt with rolled-up sleeves. Brown leather shoes or boots will complete the look perfectly.
For the bridal party, consider mismatched dresses in earthy tones for the bridesmaids and neutral-coloured suits for the groomsmen. This creates a cohesive aesthetic, that still feels natural and relaxed.
Fun touches for country weddings
The beauty of a country wedding is that it allows for plenty of creativity and personal touches. Here are a few ideas to make your wedding day uniquely yours:
Less formal seating
Instead of traditional chairs, use hay bales covered with cosy rugs or blankets. This not only looks great but also adds to the relaxed feel.
A hearty feast
Forget the formal sit-down dinner, and instead go for a hog roast, barbecue, or even a picnic-style meal fits perfectly with the country theme. You can even add a dessert table featuring pies, cobblers, and other rustic treats.
Interactive elements
Lawn games like cornhole or horseshoes keep guests entertained during cocktail hour. You could also set up a DIY photo booth with a rustic backdrop and fun props.
Dancing under the stars
Set up an outdoor dance floor with string lights overhead or create a bonfire area for guests to gather and relax as the evening winds down.
Need a wedding dress for your country wedding? Book an appointment! At Lily’s we stock a huge range of dresses and have years of experience helping brides pick their dream dress.
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