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It's all about the comfort and joy. Droshipping Diamond Painting
There's something innately comforting about a rustic-themed wedding, like the warm feeling of returning home and being cozy. What better way to begin your new life with your spouse than by capturing the sentiments of home from the get-go? A relaxed atmosphere, soothing neutral tones, all the bounty of nature, and sturdy wood accents to ground the casual palette are all facets that speak to the rustic wedding persona.
"I feel that the setting is the most important," says wedding planner Julie Lindenman of Julie Lindenman Events. "Working with a palette or design that ties in the natural surroundings feels the most authentic to me." But capturing such an intimate aesthetic that is entirely you can be difficult, especially amidst a sea of trendy rustic wedding décor we've no doubt seen a million times. "Keep it simple," advises Vanessa Vierra of Vanessa Noël Events. "Sometimes with a rustic design, the tendency can be to try to overdo it with signage and clutter. Less is more!"
Whether you're pulling out all the stops or opting for something a bit more laid-back, check out our picks of the best rustic wedding ideas.
Photo by Nicole Leever; Event Planning by Vanessa Noël Events; Floral Design by Idlewild Floral
More than any accessories or types of wedding decorations you opt for, rustic weddings are all about creating a feeling of organic simplicity and comfort. "The way that we design 'rustic' is in a more elevated and timeless way," explains Vierra. "Rustic becomes synonymous with comfort and farm-to-table; connected to nature and an understated design that enhances our already beautiful surroundings."
Photo by Belathée Photography
Flowers set the tone when it comes to wedding themes, so make sure that your choices are reflective of the sweet aesthetic. Exotic blooms and over-the-top arrangements may seem too obtrusive for a rustic reception but an unfussy mix of foraged goodies fit the bill perfectly. Just check out the friendly tablescape of garden roses, olive leaves, ruffly petals, chamomile, and greenery at this Bridgerton-inspired wedding in Connecticut.
Maintain a bit of formality during your rustic-themed soirée with custom calligraphy escort cards. Display them with clothespins and twine to exude the chic casualness that goes hand in hand with this wedding style.
Courtesy of Our Vows / Etsy
A charming protective pouch is the perfect vessel to store your wedding vows on your big day and for years to come.
Photo by Chris & Ruth;Event Planning by Laura Bravi;Floral Design by Il Profumo dei Fiori;Rentals by Lincei Catering Umbria and Il Profumo dei Fiori
When having an outdoor ceremony, the key is to let the natural splendor of the environment shine. While minimal bench-style seating is the traditional go-to, we are obsessed with the scene set with these romantic bistro chairs amongst an olive grove.
Having an outdoor wedding? Cue the lights and set the mood with strings of delicate, globe-shaped bulbs to decorate the venue.
Courtesy of Z Create Design / Etsy
Even your reception desserts deserve a dash of rustic appeal. If you're serving everyone's favorite round confection, create a fully-fledged donut wall and display them proudly underneath a wooden cutout cursive sign.
Photo by TOM LEUNG PHOTOGRAPHY; Hair by Sarah Tupper; Floral Design by Doe + Jay
The perfect hair adornment for a rustic bride, bridesmaid, or flower girl is guazy ribbon and a sprig of fresh flowers. This particular circlet features white scabiosa and miniature ferns. Be still our rustic-loving hearts.
Photo by SERGIO SANDONÁ; Event Planning by Julie Lindenman Events; Floral Design by Jenevieve Peralta Events
Make your grand entrance down a dreamy aisle flush with earthy blooms, wildflowers, and foraged botanicals like at Lindenman's own wedding. "I enjoy working with floral teams who are happy incorporating local wildflowers into their work, or décor vendors who use found objects to tie in the rustic surroundings," she says.
Courtesy of Melanie Porter Co. / Etsy
Channel natural elements and adorn any flat surface with hand-spun fairy lights, embellished with mini leaves. These can even spruce up your reception tablescape.
Courtesy of Jarful House / Etsy
Mason jars have earned themselves a spot as rustic wedding staples. These distressed mason jars with a wood backdrop are ideal for easy hanging décor.
Photo by Kami Olavarria; Event Planning by Saguzo Eventos; Floral Design by Addy Florales and Native Poppy
In lieu of a train, this bride opted for a dramatic 60-inch amber ribbon tied to her bouquet for an added "sense of flow." The autumnal hues and soft textures have all the makings of a rustic dream.
Experiment with different textures when choosing a ribbon to tie to your bouquet. Lace and tulle are quintessentially bridal, while burlap has all the trappings of a rustic moment.
Photo by O'Malley Photographers; Wedding Planning and Floral Design by Valley and Co.
Create a visual focal point for an alfresco cocktail hour by building a bar out of wine barrels topped with a wooden board. Accent with some dried flowers and you have an exquisite display for drinks.
Photo by Hugo Coelho Photography
Another us for wine barrels? Rustic plinths for displaying decorative elements. These humble pedestals are a match made in heaven with the verdant vista of this Portugal vineyard wedding.
Courtesy of The Dutch Goldfinch / Etsy
Good news, wine lovers, you can incorporate your vino enthusiasm into your rustic nuptials. Cork pieces emblazoned with your names and wedding date create a striking display for escort cards.
Photo by Jeremiah & Rachel; Event Planning and Floral Design by Greenwood Events
An open-air chapel provides a structured ceremonial space without obstructing the sweeping pastoral views. Drape vines and greenery from the beams to create an illusion of age and weathering against the bones of reclaimed lumber.
Continue the organic and sustainable theme into your grand exist by choosing natural alternatives to confetti. Have guests toss handfuls of olive leaves, dried lavender, rose petals, calendulas, whatever your heart desires.
With monogrammed lace and satin ribbon, this embroidery hoop makes for a creative take on the traditional ring bearer pillow.
Courtesy of Ines Wedding Gallery / Etsy
These adorable rustic vow books are an absolute must-have for any nature-loving pair, complete with wooden covers emblazoned with your engraved initials.
Photo by Liz Banfield; Event Planning by A Day in May Events
Summery floral prints like these are always reminiscent of balmy summer days. Incorporate those warm memories into your wedding day by weaving them into cocktail hour for a homey atmosphere.
Photo by Pat Furey;Floral Design by Il Profumo Dei Fiori
Bare tables look striking when topped with sumptuous jewel tones. Brass accents, mismatched amber-hued glassware, and bolts of vivid blues create an enchanting space.
Courtesy of Z Create Design / Etsy
Play on the wood and floral decorations synonymous with rustic wedding décor through matching seat backs. These adorable "Mr." and "Mrs." hoops can be repurposed and live on as home décor.
Photo by Federico Sbardolini; Flower Girl's Dress by Jenny Yoo; Floral Design by Bohem Fiori
Baby's breath—a pastoral wedding decoration must-have—has never looked better than in flower crown form, adorning the heads of your bridesmaids or flower girl.
Photo by SERGIO SANDONÁ; Event Planning by Julie Lindenman Events; Floral Design by Jenevieve Peralta Events
Whether in a barn, tent, or any space with high ceilings consider adding an installation of woven rattan pendant lights and accent with greenery. Hanging installations are best saved for soaring ceilings as they can overwhelm more petite spaces.
Photo by Cassidy Carson; Event Planning by Fête Nashville; Floral Design by Enchanted Florist
Create a sustainable tablescape by swapping out floral centerpieces for fruits and veggies. These tables were decorated with garland runners of lettuce, apples, artichokes, pomegranates, and bunches of wheat. "My favorite part was that, after the wedding, all of the fruits and vegetables we used to decorate the tables were fed to the farm's animals," explains bride Kim.
Courtesy of Fira Studio / Etsy
Yes, your cake topper can also revel in the full rustic treatment. A simple plywood heart bedecked with your initials makes for the final romantic touch to your dessert.
Photo by SERGIO SANDONÁ; Event Planning by Julie Lindenman Events; Floral Design by Jenevieve Peralta Events
Don't forget the littlest members of your bridal party. Lindenman outfitted the page boys at her own wedding to look every bit the rustic-chic gentlemen in gray pants, white button-downs, blush linen bow ties, and leather suspenders.
Photo by Kindred Weddings; Floral Design by Marigold; Pies by Gizditch Ranch
Forgo the usual dessert bar, or traditional wedding cake even, and have an exclusive pie table instead. "We served the pies warmed in an outdoor fire oven and served à la mode,” explains bride Sarah.
Photo by Katie Grant; Flower Girl Attire by Harriette Gordon; Floral Design by Ivy Flowers
These adorable little flower girls wore earthy crowns of dried bunny tails that matched their mini-bouquets. Add their wholesome gray dresses and black Mary Janes and we couldn't think of a more appropriately rustic ensemble.
Photo by SERGIO SANDONÁ; Event Planning by Julie Lindenman Events; Floral Design by Jenevieve Peralta Events
Escort card displays are a great place to show off your creative side. Lindenman's garden-inspired wall is covered in local flowers, each attached to a card that directs guests to their tables. Bonus: It can double as a photo booth backdrop.
Dried flowers are the perfect rustic touch to wedding decorations. These preserved gypso branches incorporate tons of texture with their frilly stems adding a playful charm to any arrangement.
Photo by MK Sadler; Event Planning by Princess Wedding; Paper by Silk & Willow
Create a romantic outdoor atmosphere by hanging love letters and snippets of your favorite poems in the trees alongside lit candle votives. Mood, set.
Photo by Jeremiah & Rachel; Event Planning and Floral Design by Greenwood Events
At this Montana ranch wedding, the seating chart was framed by elk antlers, with each table assignment pinned to a plywood board. A base of large blossoms added softness to the rugged display.
Courtesy of Open Vintage Shutters / Etsy
These vintage lanterns can be customized with table numbers so that wedding guests can easily find their seats.
Photo by Madeline Broderick Photography; Floral Design by Splints and Daisies
You already know we love baby's breath in floral crowns, but how about sprays of baby's breath in lieu of complicated bouquets? Opting for simpler touches adds tenderness as opposed to overwhelming drama, an ongoing theme when it comes to rustic wedding ideas.
Photo by Jennings King; Event Planning by Fox Events; Paper Products Studio R and J.Lily Design
These menus were printed on bread bags containing small baguettes for each guest. A sprig of rosemary and twine finish off the provincial vibe.
Photo by Rebecca Yale; Event Planning by Callista & Company; Catering by Naturally Delicious
Nothing says homegrown like a batch of freshly baked cookies. Personalize your wedding reception by using favorite family recipes or host a bake-off the night before and have guests bring their own favorites, along with the accompanying recipes to start off your newlywed recipe collection.
Photo by Lisa Poggi; Event Planning by Exclusive Italy Weddings; Floral Design by La Rosa Canina
Transform a sturdy wooden table into a light and airy rustic tablescape by incorporating pastel tones, clear glassware, and satin-finished champagne-gold metals. We especially love the lush pergola and hanging lanterns creating a cozy atmosphere despite the alfresco dinner.
Photo by Kurt Boomer; Event Planning by Jacqueline Hallgarth Events; Floral Design by Janna Brown Design Co.
Flower crowns aren't the only way to bring in a touch of freshness. Tucking a few loose stems or fresh sprigs into a hairstyle is adorably rustic and far more budget-friendly.
Photo by Nicole Leever; Event Planning by Vanessa Noël Events; Floral Design by Idlewild Floral
These seating arrangements were written on containers brimming with olive leaves, eucalyptus, and moss for a residential spin on an escort card display. "We wanted the seating chart to feel very organic and homey without feeling girly," explains Vierra. "We opted for greenery instead of flowers, but greenery with no shortage of texture and variance. This is a great option for rustic design, especially if you're going for a style that feels more farm-to-table."
Photo by Cassidy Carson; Event Planning by Fête Nashville; Floral Design by Enchanted Florist
Bunches of golden wheat make for an autumnal, rustic alternative to traditional flower arrangements. These aisle runners contrast beautifully with the white chairs.
Courtesy of Rust Wood Slices / Etsy
Wood slices are a versatile and budget-friendly way to incorporate a dose of rustic-chic to any wedding decorations. Use them in lieu of chargers, or as a cake stand, or as a base for decorative arrangements like the above.
SHOP NOW: Etsy, from $44.99 for 15
Courtesy of La Mia Casa / Etsy
Decorate your venue (or hang them off of trees for an outdoor celebration) with these dainty heart-shaped paper doilies.
Photo by Kristin Sweeting; Floral Design by Overgrowth Floral
For an easy craft of rustic table décor, put together an eclectic mix of mismatched bud vases in various colors and styles. Get creative by adding miscellaneous household items like small glass pitchers and bottles to the assortment.
Think local when it comes to wedding favors or creative place cards. "I love the idea of sourcing locally," says Lindenman. "For our wedding weekend, we wanted to support local businesses. I still get photos from our guests making pancakes using the farm-crafted syrup we gifted them."
Photo by Whitney Darling; Event Planning by RO & Co. Events; Floral Design by Bloom Babes; Rentals by Adore Folklore, Amber Event Rentals, Archive Rentals, Bright Event Rentals, Hostess Haven, La Tavola Fine Linen & Theoni
Pops of copper bring warmth and luster to neutral tones while still complementing the rustic table décor. This tablescape pairs copper mugs and flatware with amber and fuchsia hues. Eucalyptus, fresh grapefruits, and canopies of bougainvillea freshen up the aesthetic while rattan lanterns add texture.
Photo by Aaron Delesie; Event Planning by EKS Events; Floral Design by DesignWorks; Rentals by Premier Party Rental
Here a vintage dresser was transformed into a whimsical petal station where guests could load up on cones filled with loose rose petals for the couple's grand exit. Now that's some serious upcycling!
Photo by Carmen Santorelli; Event Planning by All Who Wander Events
Vintage elements with bronze or brass fixtures make for a great accompaniment to a rustic theme as they easily complement raw wood and natural greenery. Mirrors, candlesticks, or picture frames can add an ornate elegance to any space without taking over the scenery.
Transform mirrors or picture frames into signage for the entryway, bar, or tables by writing on them yourself or having decals made that adhere to the surface.
Photo by MK Sadler; Event Planning by Princess Wedding; Floral Design by Nina e I Fiori
Here a bare wooden table is topped with matte silver candlesticks and vases, a scattering of wine bottles, and fresh greenery. A gauzy white runner adds a touch of sumptuous softness while wooden garden chairs blend in seamlessly.
Courtesy of Open Vintage Shutters / Etsy
How charming are these miniature, painted lanterns? Use them to light up walkways, scatter them around tables or, have your bridesmaids carry them down the aisle.
Photo by Jeannine Lombardo Photography
"You want your guests to enjoy the outdoor setting, so why not incorporate fun games into your cocktail hour?" says Lindenman. She personally recommends Upstate Jamboree, a rental company that builds all of their games from sustainably-harvested local lumber.
This charming nuptial arch was built by the bride's father out of oak branches. The bride and groom personally decorated the structure with swags of eucalyptus and fresh garden roses.
Photo by James x Schulze; Event Planning by Calluna Events; Décor & Design by Eclectic Hive; Floral Design by Bare Root Flora; Tabletop Rentals by Yonder Floral and Decor House
This bare table is adorned with an earthy runner of moss and embellished with candles, scattered flowers, and fresh fruit. Wooden charger plates and champagne-gold flatware pair incredibly well with the simple yet bountiful setting.
Courtesy of Susie's Wood Shop / Etsy
Reclaimed wood planter boxes packed with mason jars are another versatile and budget-friendly accessory for any rustic theme. Use them to hold floral arrangements, fill them with glowing fairy lights, or stuff them with garnishes for the cocktail bar..
Courtesy of My Primitive Boutique / Etsy
A custom sign combining your first names and new last name is the perfect rustic wedding decoration that can easily transition into your new home together.
Courtesy of Sweet Confetti Co. / Etsy
These acrylic table numbers give off the illusion of expensive glass for a far more attractive price. The minimalist look will blend seamlessly with your rustic table décor
Photo by Mike Larson; Event Planning by Bash Please; Floral Design by Marigold
Here an antique dresser holds an assortment of wicker baskets brimming with olive branches and minimalist escort cards attached to olive leaves with leather cords—all the trappings of an idyllic pastoral fête.
Courtesy of Place Card Holder Shop / Etsy
How cute are these birch place card holders? Each can be burned with custom text and date for a personalized wedding favor.
Photo by Nicole Leever; Event Planning by Vanessa Noël Events; Floral Design by Idlewild Floral
"The size of the barn was quite large for the guest count so the draping helped in several ways—it filled the space well and made the scale of the barn feel more appropriate, lightened up the dark interior, and added layers of texture," explains Vierra. "While wood is a staple in rustic design, it can also become quite dark and heavy so using draping in creative ways can lighten up the space and add softness."
Photo by Ross Harvey; Event Planning by The Lake Como Wedding Planner; Rentals by Tearose
"Go for more high-end materials and textures like linen, stoneware, and iron to keep the focus on the quality of those elements rather than the quantity of things to look at," says Vierra. "This will help maintain sophistication in your rustic theme and keep the aesthetic timeless." Neutral hues with a heathered grain evoke an organic feel without having to go full burlap to achieve a rustic look.
Photo by Larissa Cleveland Photography
While crystal-cut glass and chinoiserie vases have their place, they tend to seem out of place in a more laid-back setting. Enter: galvanized buckets. These rustic dreams were the quintessential, homespun vessels for pretty blooms at this California ranch wedding.
Photo by Courtney Simpson Photography
Now this is a talking piece! All it takes is a vintage find and some crawling greenery to create the most rustic refreshment station fit for an enchanted garden wedding in New Jersey.
If we haven't made a case for olive branches already, here are a few extra rustic wedding ideas to get your craft on. Use them to fill centerpieces or scatter them down runners for a mediterranean feel. Tuck them into hairstyles or get crafty and weave them into floral crowns. Grab a bunch and let them shine on their own in your bridal bouquet. The possibilities are endless.
"One of the highlights of our wedding was a bonfire after party," says Lindenman. "We easily could have brought down chairs or cute lounge pieces, but we chose to go with the existing tree stumps that surrounded it. Using the natural elements was a great way to keep things understated and authentic to the environment."
Photo by Kelsey Halm Photography
Note that you don't need to choose between an inviting bonfire and a cushy lounge, you can certainly have both. And if you do, let it include a whimsical swing like at this Charleston wedding full of rustic, southern charm. We love the addition of climbing vines and a vintage chandelier for extra oomph.
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