How to Plan a Rustic Wedding
So, you’ve decided you want a rustic themed wedding. What a beautiful choice! Rustic weddings are unique, elegant, and super relaxed. They lean heavily into the outdoorsy, DIY, perfectly undone style of the countryside, making them great for couples who love nature, cherish simplicity, and want a laid-back atmosphere.
From the moment you start planning, you’ll find that rustic weddings are all about embracing natural beauty, adding heartfelt touches, and doing all the things that feel uniquely you. Read on to learn how to plan your very own rustic wedding, including how to budget, how to gather inspo, and how to nail your planning.
What is a rustic themed wedding?
A rustic themed wedding is a wedding that embraces the natural charm of the countryside. It’s all about creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere with elements that feel organic and effortlessly elegant. Think burlap fabric, barrels for tables, a sage green colour scheme, and lots of flowers.
Rustic weddings are perfect for anyone looking for a whimsical, low-key, and authentic wedding ceremony. Plus, from the decor to the cake to the wedding invites, almost every aspect of a rustic wedding is easy to DIY (so long as you have the skills!).
How popular are rustic themed weddings?
Rustic themed weddings are the most popular wedding theme of all! According to our 2024 UK Engagement Report, based on feedback from over 3,500 engaged couples, rustic vibes are the most popular wedding theme of 2024, with trending natural greens and burnt orange leading the way for wedding decor colours. Specifically, 38% of Millennials and 40% of Gen Z are currently planning a rustic style wedding. Couples are clearly being drawn to the authenticity and intimacy that rustic aesthetics provide, and want to create a wedding atmosphere that feels both timeless and personally meaningful.
How to plan a rustic themed wedding
Step 1: Get started with Bridebook
First things first — start your planning journey with Bridebook.
Bridebook is your free, all-in-one wedding planning tool that you can access from a smartphone or laptop. Bridebook has everything you need to plan the wedding of your dreams, including a budget tracker, a guest list planner, a scrapbook for collating fun inspo pics or vendors’ names, plus lists of all your favourite venues, vendors and wedding services. With Bridebook, you can stay organised and stress-free throughout your entire planning journey.
Step 2: Set your budget
Alright, let’s get the not-so-fun stuff out of the way first: the budget.
Your wedding budget touches every part of your big day, so you need to know what you’re working with. Sit down with your partner, your parents, and anyone else who’s making a significant financial contribution to your wedding. Decide what you believe a reasonable budget to be, and then add a slight buffer to account for any extra spending. We suggest a buffer of 10% to ensure you can have the day of your dreams. So, say your budget is £20,000, consider putting an extra £2,000 aside just in case.
We recommend setting your budget before you start planning your big day. This way, you won’t fall in love with a concept, venue, or dress before knowing its price point and accidentally break your heart. Trust us — set the budget first.
Step 3: Set a date
The next step is to set a date. Setting a date for your wedding gives you something to work towards and makes the whole process feel real. It can also help you when planning the finances as venues, caterers, entertainment and other suppliers are all typically more expensive on weekends or in ‘high season’ (May through to October). You can save a few pennies by getting married in the shoulder seasons (such as January, February, March and November) or on weekdays. Bear this in mind when planning your dates.
Step 4: Start gathering inspo
Once the admin is out of the way you can start the fun stuff — the planning!
Before you start booking anything or start viewing venues, we recommend that you start a wedding Pinterest board or use the ‘scrapbook’ section of the Bridebook app to keep track of any inspirational photos, colour schemes, or vendors you like the look of.
Saving all your inspiration pictures in one place will help you get a feel for your rustic wedding theme. Are you going for more of a whimsical rustic feel, an elegant marquee wedding, or a proper countryside knees up? Whatever you choose, having a clear vision will guide your decisions throughout the planning process.
Step 5: Start the planning
There’s lots to consider when it comes to planning your rustic wedding. We recommend starting with the ‘big ticket’ items and moving on to the smaller items as you work through the planning process. Your big ticket items include the venue, the catering, and the entertainment. These three aspects will set the tone for your entire wedding and will likely take up a significant portion of your budget.
Rustic wedding venue
It’s important to start with the venue first, as this will be the backdrop to your big day. There are four main options when it comes to rustic wedding venues. Think barn or farmhouse, a beautiful vineyard for an elegant destination wedding, or a marquee in an outdoor setting for a more relaxed vibe.
Rustic wedding venues weren’t traditionally designed to be wedding venues. That means they may be lacking in facilities and amenities. Be sure to check with your venue what amenities they offer before booking. No questions are silly questions! Imagine assuming a rustic barn has toilet facilities and then on their big day they’re nowhere to be found! Check everything, and ensure that the extra cost of hiring necessary facilities fits your vision and budget.
Visit a few venues and picture your big day there. Trust your gut and choose the one that feels just right. If you need a helping hand in your search, check out the top rustic wedding venues in your area here on Bridebook. These venues all specialise in weddings, and make for the perfect rustic wedding setting.
Rustic wedding themes
The beauty of a rustic wedding is its versatility. You can make the most simple themes and decor look beautiful in a rustic setting, and it allows you to infuse your personal style and creativity into every detail.
Here are a few ideas to get you started. There are plenty to choose from:
- Whimsical rustic. Think fairy lights, gypsophila (aka baby’s breath), soft pastel colours, and vintage touches. This theme is dreamy and romantic, perfect for creating a magical atmosphere.
- Western chic. Embrace your inner cowgirl with hay bales, cowboy boots, and wildflowers. This theme is perfect for a laid-back, fun celebration.
- British countryside. Welcome to the rolling hills of the Great British countryside. Think wellies, afternoon tea, scrumpy cider, classic Land Rovers, Union Jacks, and lots of hunter green everywhere.
- Boho vibe. Go for a bohemian vibe with macramé, earthy tones, and lots of greenery. This theme is relaxed and natural, ideal for free-spirited couples.
- Vintage charm. Incorporate antique decor, lace, old clocks, and old-fashioned charm. This theme adds a touch of nostalgia and elegance to your big day.
Rustic wedding catering
When it comes to rustic themed wedding catering, the focus should be on comfort, warmth, and an inviting sense of community. Rustic weddings often celebrate farm-to-table freshness, hearty meals, and a communal dining experience that brings everyone together. Here are some super cute rustic catering ideas to make your wedding feast extra special:
- Family-style dining. Family-style dining is a perfect fit for a rustic wedding. Large platters of delicious, home-cooked food are placed on each table, encouraging guests to serve themselves and each other. Think of options like roasted meats, seasonal vegetables, and fresh, crusty bread.
- Farm-to-table freshness. A key element of rustic catering is using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Work with your caterer to create a menu that showcases the best of what’s in season. This could include a vibrant salad with garden-fresh greens, a selection of cheeses from a nearby dairy, or ripe, local fruits.
- Comforting classics. Rustic weddings often embrace a sense of nostalgia, and what better way to evoke that than with comfort food? Think of dishes that warm the heart and soul: creamy mashed potatoes, succulent pot roast, or a hearty stew. These dishes can be elevated with gourmet twists or kept simple and traditional, depending on your personal taste.
- Appetisers and grazing stations. Lead with a selection of rustic appetisers or a beautifully curated grazing station. Wooden boards laden with artisanal cheeses, cured meats, rustic bread, olives, and fruits make for an inviting and visually appealing spread. You could also offer mini versions of rustic favourites like bite-sized meat pies, bruschetta with fresh tomato and basil, or savory tarts.
- Outdoor BBQs and roasts. For a more casual and interactive dining experience, consider hosting an outdoor barbecue or roast. You could opt for a whole hog roast, grilled vegetables, or even a DIY burger bar with all the fixings. This style of catering adds an element of fun and engagement to your reception.
- Sweet endings. Consider a dessert table featuring a variety of treats such as homemade pies, tarts, and cakes. Seasonal fruit crisps and cobblers can also make a yummy addition. For something unique, set up a s’mores station where guests can roast marshmallows and assemble their own gooey treats.
Rustic wedding drinks
Complement your rustic menu with beverage choices that reflect the theme. Offer a selection of locally brewed beers, artisanal ciders, or a signature cocktail inspired by seasonal ingredients. Mason jars filled with lemonade or a rustic punch can add to the charm. For wine lovers, feature a variety of wines from local vineyards. Providing a range of drink options ensures that there’s something to satisfy every guest’s palate.
Rustic wedding presentation
The way your food is presented and served can greatly enhance the rustic atmosphere. Consider using wooden platters, vintage crockery, or enamelware to serve your dishes. Simple yet elegant table settings with burlap runners and wildflower centrepieces can further enhance the rustic feel. Encourage your caterer to incorporate these elements into their service style to create a cohesive and charming dining experience.
Rustic wedding entertainment
Wedding entertainment is usually provided in the early afternoon or during cocktail hour. It keeps conversation flowing and helps guests get through that interim period without becoming too bored!
For a rustic wedding, consider charming activities that fit the relaxed, natural vibe. Here are just a handful of cute rustic themed ideas:
- Lawn games (for example, egg and spoon races)
- Hayride or wagon ride
- A live folk band/ceilidh band
- Outdoor cinema/movie screening
- Themed photobooth
- Farm animals/petting zoo
- Bonfire with s’mores station
- A DIY craft station herb/flower crown making)
Once you’ve ticked these big ticket items off your list, you can start pulling together everything else. This includes the cake, wedding invitations, the decor, and, of course, what you’re going to wear!
Rustic wedding cake
The type of wedding cake you choose will depend on your tastes and budget. The beauty of a rustic wedding is that lots of different styles can fit the theme of this wedding, so you’re free to choose whatever cake you and your partner like best.
You could consider:
- Naked cakes. These are very fashionable at the moment and are great for those who don’t like anything too sweet. Naked cakes are cakes with minimal icing that let the sandwich layers peek through. They can be decorated with fresh fruits, flowers, or greenery for a charming, rustic look.
- Buttercream icing. Smooth or textured buttercream icing can be adorned with fresh flowers, berries, or even herbs to complement your theme. Perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth or for couples going for a more classic look.
- Cupcakes or muffins. If you prefer the look and style of cupcakes or muffins, you can have a range of little cakes displayed on cake stands. This not only looks adorable but also allows for a variety of flavours to please all your guests. Plus, it’s easy for guests to grab and enjoy.
- Your favourite food. Not a fan of cakes? No problem! Consider having a cheese stand, a tower of doughnuts, or even a pork pie stand if that tickles your fancy! This is your big day, which means you can have whatever you want in place of a traditional wedding cake, if you want to!
Rustic wedding invites
Rustic wedding themed invites are the first impression guests will have of your big day, so it’s important you set the scene right from the beginning. Your wedding invitations should reflect your chosen colour scheme, include all the key information about your big day, and a hint at the rustic charm that awaits.
You can either make your wedding invitations yourself or have an expert stationer craft them for you. Either way, you’ll need to have an idea of the kind of style you’d like. You could use any combination of the following elements to create a beautiful, rustic themed wedding invitation.
- Floral or botanical designs. Incorporate delicate floral designs or botanical prints that reflect your rustic theme. Think wildflowers, greenery, or even watercolour illustrations to add a touch of whimsy.
- Vintage wood and lace. A classic combination. A wooden background design with a lace overlay can create a beautiful, vintage-inspired invite.
- Eco-friendly/recycled. Consider using recycled or seed paper for your invitations. Seed paper can be planted by your guests to grow wildflowers, making it a lovely and eco-friendly keepsake.
- Handwritten calligraphy. Handwritten or calligraphy-style fonts add a personal and elegant touch to your invitations. You can even add a personal note or message for that extra special touch.
- Rustic elements. Incorporate a medley of charming rustic elements such as burlap, twine, or even small wooden charms to embellish your invites. These little details can tie your whole theme together.
Rustic wedding decor
The beauty of a rustic wedding is that just about anything can become rustic wedding decor. Whether you love a mason jar, can’t get enough burlap, or love the look of hay bale sofas, you can have it all with a rustic wedding reception.
Here are just a few ideas to help get you started:
- Mason or jam jars. Use them as vases, candle holders, or even drinking glasses. Decorate them with lace, burlap, or twine for an added rustic touch.
- Wooden elements. Try using barrels, wooden crates, wooden discs, and signs to add warmth and a country feel. You can use wooden barrels as tables, a cake stand, or standing bars, while wooden discs act as great table number markers.
- Burlap and lace features. The decor opportunities are endless with these two popular materials. You can use them as anything from table runners to chair sashes to bouquet wraps, or however else you see fit.
- Hay bales. Use hay bales as seating for an outdoor ceremony or reception, or for a marquee. Push them together to create sofas and tables, then cover them with cosy blankets or quilts for comfort.
- Fairy lights. Create a magical atmosphere with twinkling fairy lights draped around your venue. They add a touch of romance and enchantment to any rustic setting, especially once the sun starts to go down.
- Wildflowers. Use wildflowers in your bouquets, centrepieces, and decor to add a natural, effortless beauty to your wedding. Who doesn’t love a good foxglove?
Rustic wedding attire
Rustic wedding dresses are usually lacy, floaty, and effortlessly elegant. Don’t shy away from ivory or even slightly pinker tones for a beautiful and ethereal look. Picture yourself in a gown that moves gracefully with the breeze, speckled with delicate lace or perhaps even some whimsical floral embroidery.
For attire other than wedding dresses, think about relaxed, yet stylish attire. In particular, tweed suits, suspenders, or vests paired with a crisp white shirt can create a charming and cohesive look. Warm earthy tones such as brown, green, orange or navy can complement the rustic theme perfectly.
Looking for an extra something special? Sew a small, meaningful patch inside your dress or suit jacket. This could be a piece of fabric from a loved one’s clothing, a tiny embroidered message, or a little blue bow. It’s sweet, sentimental, and can make your wedding attire even more special.
Step 6: Capture the moments
Once you’ve considered the major and minor elements of your big day, be sure to book your photographer, videographer, and any content creators you’d like to capture your special moments as soon as you can. The type of photography and videography you choose can make a significant impact on how you and your guests remember your wedding. But, the type you choose will depend largely on the type of vibe you’re trying to create, as well as your overall budget.
If you want a classic and professional look, a photographer is the obvious choice. If you want to re-live every moment, opt for a videographer in addition. If you want something low-key and relaxed, a content creator who captures snaps and videos for your social media could be the choice for you.
If you’re on the hunt for wedding photographers and videographers, be sure to check out their profiles here on Bridebook, which provide a high-quality, accessible, and up-to-date showcase of their work. You can filter by any style that fits your vision, from modern and natural to artistic and alternative.
When exploring options, look for styles that resonate with you and match your wedding theme. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
- Research and review. Check out their portfolios and read reviews from other couples. This will give you a sense of their style and reliability.
- Meet and greet. Arrange a meeting or video call to discuss your vision and see if you connect with them. A good rapport with your photographer or videographer is crucial, to make sure you’re totally comfortable on the day.
- Share your vision. Be clear about what moments and details you want to be captured. Whether it’s the emotional first look, the exchange of vows, or candid shots of guests enjoying themselves, make sure they understand your priorities.
- Get a mix. If your budget allows, consider hiring both a photographer and a videographer. They can capture different aspects of your day, giving you a comprehensive collection of memories.
- Discuss available packages. Most professionals offer packages that include engagement shoots, wedding albums, and highlight reels. Consider all the options and choose what works best for you and your budget.
Step 7: Sit back and relax
Once this final box is ticked, it’s time to sit back and relax. Revel in this interim period, knowing the happiest day of your life is just a stone’s throw away. Take some time to enjoy being engaged, maybe plan a few date nights, and keep reminding yourselves why you’re doing this in the first place.
The bottom line on planning a rustic wedding
Rustic weddings are a beautiful, low-key way to celebrate your love. They offer a charming blend of natural beauty, personal touches, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes everyone feel at home. They’re beautifully customisable, easy to DIY, and are perfect for couples who want to reflect their love of the countryside.
So, set your budget, gather your inspo pictures, and start your planning. Oh, and don’t forget to sign up to Bridebook — it really is a lifesaver!
You Might Also Like…
Happy Planning!
Related articles
