We can’t blame you for wanting to plan a rustic themed wedding. Rustic is, after all, the most popular wedding theme of 2024! It’s down to earth, casual, and embrace the perfectly imperfect beauty of nature. But, with so many decorations, cake types, venues, and even attire that can constitute a rustic wedding theme, it can feel a little overwhelming to know what to pick.
Don’t worry — we’re here to help. We’ve collated our 50 favourite ideas for creating a rustic wedding theme. From cakes to decorations to dream venues, keep reading to learn everything you need to know about rustic wedding decor.
What is a rustic wedding?
A rustic wedding is a wedding inspired by the simplicity and beauty of nature. Think lots of rugged textures, natural colours, and DIY friendly crafts.
A rustic wedding is all about bringing a touch of the great outdoors into your special day. Whether you opt for an understated elegance with delicate wildflowers and subtle earth tones or go all out with vintage farm tables, hay bales, and burlap accents, a rustic wedding means embracing the perfect imperfection of nature.
50 best rustic wedding ideas
Let’s take a look at the 50 best ideas for throwing a laid-back, rustic wedding. We’ve broken our suggestions up into 5 categories: venue, attire, entertainment, cake, wedding favours, and decor.
This way, you can easily mix and match the elements to create the rustic wedding of your dreams. Whether you’re going for a full-blown, boho dream, or just want to add a touch of natural whimsy to your big day, there’s something for everyone in this comprehensive list.
Rustic wedding venue ideas
1) A barn
An old or converted barn is a classic choice for a rustic wedding venue. They’re usually fairly easy to find, are surrounded by beautiful landscapes, and easy to dress up and customise to match your personal style. Whether you prefer fairy lights, hanging banners, reams of flowers, or antique lanterns, the possibilities are endless.
But, be mindful of the limitations of this type of wedding venue. Barns were never (originally) intended to be wedding venues, so they’ll likely be lacking in important amenities like running water, electricity, and the all important toilets! Be sure to discuss these aspects with your venue manager before you take the plunge.
2) A forest clearing
Planning a forest wedding can be a truly enchanting experience, and planning your wedding in a forest clearing can bring a unique sense of magic and whimsy to your big day. Imagine getting married in your very own hundred acre wood, or a beautiful scene from a Midsummer Night’s dream.
Decorate with twinkling fairy lights, colourful lanterns, wildflowers, natural wood arches, and more to enhance the natural beauty of the surroundings.
3) Your back garden
If you have a big enough space, consider throwing your wedding reception in your back garden. You’ll need a marquee to stave off any bad weather, but imagine how relaxed and personal your wedding will feel in a space that holds so many memories.
You can set up cosy seating areas with mismatched chairs and vintage furniture, string up some fairy lights, and create a DIY bar with your favourite drinks. Plus, having your wedding at home allows you to save on venue costs and splurge on other aspects of your day!
4) A farm
The great news for any farmer’s sons or daughters is that farm weddings are very in vogue! Luckily, farms are also available for rent, so there’s no need to pull the plug on your dream farm wedding if your family are city dwellers.
Farms are a great blank canvas for whatever kind of rustic wedding you’re trying to create. Whether you’d like your guests to bask in the beauty of rolling fields, or simply enjoy the charm of a cosy barn, the possibilities are endless. You could even have a petting zoo as your cocktail hour entertainment. Your guests will have a whale of a time with miniature goats, sheep, horses, puppies, rabbits or even guinea pigs!
5) A vineyard
Vineyards are another great option for a rustic wedding venue, offering a romantic and picturesque setting with rolling grapevines and abundant hills.
Vineyards are a beautiful setting in themselves. But, to enhance the rustic charm, consider adding touches like hand-painted wooden signs, wine cork place card holders, and grapevine wreaths.
Equally, you can’t miss out on the opportunity to offer a fun and interactive wine tasting experience as part of your entertainment.
6) A campsite
If you love camping holidays, met on an outdoor excursion, or just want a wedding that’s a bit different, consider having your celebration at a campsite. Campsites are usually hooked up with a range of handy amenities, and they may be able to offer rental of different tents, yurts, and bars for a comfortable and unique wedding experience.
Throwing a campsite wedding is the perfect opportunity to lean into the rugged but playful charm of camping holidays. Think s’mores stations, lantern-lit pathways, and cosy bonfires where guests can gather and share stories. No need to worry about hotel rooms — have your guests camp overnight in glamping tents, campervans, or yurts. Complete with plush bedding and fairy lights to make your guests feel pampered.
7) Festival grounds
If you love the idea of a campsite themed wedding, but want to add a touch of festival flair, consider holding your wedding at festival grounds. Imagine creating your own mini music festival for your special day! Decorate with colourful bunting, boho-chic tents, and vibrant flower crowns for your guests. You can set up multiple stages for live bands or DJs, have food trucks serving delicious treats, and even include fun activities like face painting or a Ferris wheel.
Create cosy chill-out zones with hammocks, bean bags, and fairy lights where guests can relax and enjoy the atmosphere. Incorporate elements like art installations, interactive games, and a bonfire for evening gatherings.
Pro tip: Give your event an authentic festival name! Consider using your new, shared name or a fun mashup of your names to create something truly unique. For example, ‘Smith-Fest 2024’ or ‘Johnstone-bury’
8) A botanical garden
The beauty of getting married at a botanical garden is that you’re surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant blooms, meaning you can repurpose some of your floral budget towards other expenses. It’s a beautiful, picturesque, and natural place to celebrate your love.
You can enhance the garden’s beauty with simple decorations like fairy lights, mason or jam jar candles, and wooden signs. Opt for natural and organic elements that complement the garden’s charm, like burlap table runners, potted plant centrepieces, and floral wreaths. You could also offer tours of the garden as part of the entertainment, or set up a sweet afternoon tea station for guests to graze while you’re taking photos.
9) An old chapel
Old chapels will always be a popular option for wedding ceremonies. But, if you find somewhere especially beautiful, consider holding both your ceremony and reception there. It’s a great way to fully immerse your guests in the historic and romantic ambiance of your big day.
Lean into the semi-gothic decor by using long, banquet-style tables adorned with lace runners, antique candelabras, and fresh flowers. The acoustics in chapels are usually amazing, so consider having a live choir or classical musicians to enhance the experience.
10) An orchard
Orchards are another great option for a rustic outdoor wedding. The beauty of nature will speak for itself, and you can decorate with rustic elements like wooden crates, burlap table runners, and mason jar candles. You can set up long banquet tables under the trees, adorned with simple floral arrangements and vintage tableware. String fairy lights and lanterns through the branches to create a magical, twinkling atmosphere as the sun sets.
For a truly memorable experience, consider incorporating the orchard’s produce into your wedding menu. Serve fresh fruit platters, homemade pies, and cider where possible. You could even have a fun, interactive cider-making station for guests to enjoy.
Rustic wedding dress ideas
For brides
11) Lace wedding dress
Brides can’t go wrong with a floaty, lace-layered wedding dress. Opt for a champagne or pink-toned dress for a subtle twist on the classic white. Pair it with a floral crown made of wildflowers to embrace the natural beauty of the setting. Complete the look with dainty, vintage-inspired jewellery and a pair of charming cowgirl boots for that perfect blend of elegance and rustic charm.
12) Floral crowns
Flower crowns are the perfect whimsical, rustic addition to any wedding attire. You can either have a fresh flower crown made by your florist or craft one yourself using artificial flowers for a longer-lasting keepsake. Pair the floral crown with loose, flowing hair or a romantic updo to enhance the bohemian feel. This delicate accessory adds a touch of enchantment and ties in beautifully with the natural surroundings.
13) Tea-length dress
Tea length dresses are a sweet and playful option for a rustic wedding. Falling between the knee and ankle, these dresses offer a vintage charm and are perfect for showing off a great pair of shoes, like those cowgirl boots or cute ballet flats. A tea-length dress with layers of tulle and lace can create a fun, twirl-worthy look that’s perfect for dancing the night away.
14) Lace suit
If you aren’t a dress kind of person or simply prefer something a bit different, a lace suit can be a stunning and unique choice. Opt for a tailored lace blazer and matching trousers in a soft ivory or pastel shade. Pair it with a delicate camisole underneath and complete the look with some elegant, understated jewellery. This ensemble not only offers comfort but also brings a modern twist to rustic wedding attire.
For grooms
15) Tweed suit
A tweed suit offers a timeless, rugged look that fits right in with a rustic wedding theme. Choose earthy tones like brown or olive green, and consider adding a floral tie or a bow tie for a touch of whimsy. Don’t forget the brown leather shoes or boots to pull the whole look together. For an extra dash of personality, roll up the sleeves and skip the jacket for the reception.
16) Suspenders and bow tie
Suspenders and bow ties can add a fun and quirky touch to your attire. Pair them with dress shirts and chinos in coordinating colours. Brown leather shoes or boots will keep the look cohesive. Consider adding personalised boutonnieres made of greenery and small flowers for a special touch.
For guests
17) Earth-toned suits
Earth-toned suits include shades like tan, olive, and brown, offering a warm and natural look that fits perfectly with a rustic theme. Pair these suits with crisp white shirts and matching ties or bow ties. Add a touch of personality with patterned pocket squares or boutonnieres made of wildflowers and greenery. Brown leather shoes or boots complete the ensemble, ensuring guests look sharp yet in tune with the natural surroundings.
18) Floral dresses
Guests can embrace the rustic theme by wearing floral dresses in soft, earthy tones. Flowy maxi dresses or midi skirts paired with lace tops work wonderfully. Add a light cardigan or shawl for cooler evenings, and complete the look with comfortable sandals or cowgirl boots. A small clutch and simple jewellery will finish off the outfit nicely.
19) Cowgirl boots
Cowgirl or cowboy boots are a fantastic addition to any rustic wedding outfit. They add a touch of country charm and are the ideal, practical choice for an outdoor wedding. Pair them with dresses, skirts, or even dress pants for a stylish yet comfortable look.
20) Layering
If you’re really stuck on what to wear, you can’t go wrong with layering. Layering different textures and pieces not only adds depth to your outfit, but also ensures you stay comfortable throughout the day and night. Think about combining a lightweight cardigan over a lace dress or pairing a flannel shirt with a vest and suspenders. Adding a denim or leather jacket can also bring a bit of edge and versatility, allowing you to adapt your look as the weather changes.
Accessorise with statement jewellery, like a chunky bracelet or a beaded necklace, to add a personal touch. Scarves and shawls in natural fabrics can also be great additions, providing warmth and style as the evening cools down.
Rustic wedding entertainment ideas
21) Barn dance
Embrace your inner cowboy or cowgirl by hosting a lively barn dance. Hire a live country band and have a caller lead your guests through fun line dances and square dances. This interactive and energetic activity will get everyone up on their feet and enjoying the country spirit. Just remember to pop it, lock it, and polka dot it!
22) Axe throwing
Trust us — you’ll need a professional team to organise this entertainment for you. When done safely, axe throwing can be a thrilling and fun activity that adds an adventurous twist to your wedding day. Your guests will love testing their skills and cheering each other on. It’s a unique way to bring a bit of excitement and competition to your celebration.
23) Petting zoo
Bring in a mini petting zoo with friendly farm animals like goats, sheep, and rabbits for guests to enjoy. This adorable addition will be especially popular with kids and animal lovers, offering a sweet and memorable addition to any wedding reception. Who wouldn’t want to cuddle a little lamb or a fluffy bunny on your wedding day? If you chose this entertainment, we guarantee people will talk about your wedding for years to come.
24) Giant board games
You can’t go wrong with giant, wooden board games. Think Connect 4, Hoopla, Bat and Ball, or even giant Jenga. These oversized games are perfect for breaking the ice and adding a playful element to your wedding. They’ll keep guests of all ages entertained and create plenty of laughter and friendly competition. Plus, you can leave them outside during the food to double as evening entertainment!
25) Karaoke
Turn a corner of your venue into a funky karaoke lounge. Set up with microphones, a projector screen, and even some Strictly Come Dancing style voting cards. Provide a wide selection of songs and let everyone showcase their vocal talents for a fun and entertaining evening. You might even discover some hidden talent among your friends and family!
26) S’mores station
Create a campfire area where guests can roast marshmallows and make s’mores. This classic campfire treat adds a nostalgic touch and is perfect for a cosy, relaxed evening. Set up a small s’mores station nearby with sweet additions so guests can customise their s’mores. Think salted caramel, crushed candy canes, peanut butter, or even slices of fresh fruit.
Provide an assortment of different chocolates like milk, dark, and white, as well as digestive biscuits, graham crackers (if you can get hold of them), and other fun alternatives like chocolate chip cookies. Delicious!
27) Farm-themed photo booth
Wedding photo booths are a classic choice for wedding entertainment. Set up a photo booth with rustic-themed props like cowboy hats, vintage frames, and burlap banners. Guests can take fun and quirky photos to remember your special day, and you’ll have a collection of candid moments to cherish.
Pro tip: Have guests use the pictures from your photobooth in your wedding guest book! It’s a fun twist on a classic guest book idea.
28) Horse riding
Horse riding is the perfect way to add a touch of adventure to your wedding reception. You’ll need a small paddock area, some horse riding teachers, and, of course, some horses. For those who are new to riding, the instructors can offer guided rides or short lessons, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and safe. To make it even more special, consider decorating the horses with flower garlands or rustic-themed accessories that match your wedding decor.
If anyone is too nervous to try riding, they can always take some photos with the ponies or feed them a handful of carrots in exchange for a cuddle!
29) Nature walks
Guided nature walks work best in venues with a bit of history. Think vineyards, botanical gardens, or scenic estates. Arrange for knowledgeable guides to lead your guests through the beautiful surroundings, sharing interesting facts and stories about the area. This is a wonderful way for guests to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of your venue while learning something new.
30) Flower arranging
If you’d prefer a creative and hands-on activity, set up a flower arranging station. Provide a variety of fresh, seasonal blooms, and let guests create their own beautiful bouquets or floral crowns. This not only adds a fun, interactive element to your wedding but also gives your guests a lovely keepsake to take home.
Rustic wedding cake ideas
31) Naked cake
Naked cakes are cakes that don’t have any icing on top or on the sides. This means they showcase their beautiful tiers and allows you to really taste whatever is sandwiching the cakes together. Decorate with fresh flowers, berries, and maybe a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple, elegant look that feels right at home in a rustic setting.
32) Semi-naked cake
A semi-naked cake is similar to a naked cake, except it may have a thin layer of buttercream on the sides and on-top. Almost like a crumb-coat, it adds a subtle layer of sweetness to the cake while still allowing the natural beauty of the layers to peek through.
33) Fruit-topped cake
A fruit-topped cake is cake of any flavour and icing style, topped with fresh, seasonal fruits like figs, berries, and grapes. This not only adds vibrant colours, but also gives your guests a burst of natural sweetness. It’s a simple yet stunning way to make your cake look beautiful and taste delicious.
34) Muffin tower
If you aren’t a fan of sliced cake, consider serving lots of mini muffins instead of one large cake. The beauty of offering lots of small cakes is that you can offer a variety of flavours to suit everyone’s tastes. Arrange them on a tiered stand for a charming display. You can decorate each muffin with rustic elements like edible flowers, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Pro tip: You can still have one large cake so you can go through the transition of cutting the cake. Set your large cake at the top of the tier and arrange the muffins around the large cake in a cascading style. Find an XL cake tower for a truly show-stopping display.
35) Pie tower
Similarly to muffins, if you aren’t a fan of traditional wedding cakes, pies can be a fun and unusual alternative. Offer a variety of flavours like apple, cherry, peach, and lemon meringue, and arrange them on a tiered stand for a delightful display. Alternatively, go savoury — offer pork pies, cheese and onions pies, or dabble in a sausage roll. Each guest can enjoy a slice of their favourite pie, adding a cosy, homestyle, and potentially savoury touch to your wedding dessert table.
36) Cheese board selection
Cheese boards are a great way to incorporate your love of savoury foods into your wedding reception. Set up an elaborate cheese board with a range of cheeses, crackers, jams, chutneys, fresh fruits, and celery. You could also add some honey, olive oil, and rustic bread for an extra touch of indulgence.
37) Carrot cake
You can’t go wrong with a delicious, moist carrot cake. It’s a classic choice for a rustic wedding with its warm, homey feel. Decorate with nuts, edible flowers, or even cute carrot decorations for a fun and tasty treat that everyone will love.
38) Edible flower cake
Edible flower cakes can be any flavour base cake with any flavour icing. But, they are decorated with beautiful, edible flowers that add a touch of nature and elegance. These flowers can be pressed into the icing or scattered on top, creating a stunning, garden-like effect that fits perfectly with a rustic theme.
39) Herb-decorated cake
Use fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and lavender to decorate your cake. These fragrant and earthy additions provide a unique touch and enhance the rustic charm of your wedding. Plus, they’ll make the whole area around the cake smell moreish and delicious.
40) Drip cake
A drip cake is usually a naked or semi-naked cake with a rim of chocolate ganache, melted chocolate, salted caramel, or some other thick, sweet pudding dripped down the sides in a haphazard style. This creates a visually stunning and mouth-watering look that’s both elegant and playful. You can top it off with edible flowers, fresh fruits, or even macarons to add a colourful and fun element. Drip cakes are perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to your rustic wedding, making each slice a delicious work of art.
Rustic wedding decor ideas
41) Cornucopia centrepieces
Nothing says rustic like a real-life, mini cornucopia! Find some medium-sized, woven baskets and fill them with bread, fresh vegetables, fruit, dipping oils, and more for an authentic look. The beauty of this decor is that guests can graze on it before their meals are served, making it both functional and decorative.
42) Eucalyptus leaves
Eucalyptus leaves embody all the principles of a rustic wedding. They’re a beautiful sage green, are fresh, natural, and easy to DIY. Plus, they can be used in a range of different ways throughout your wedding decor. Try draping over tables, wrapping them around your bouquet, or using them as accents in your centrepieces. You can even scatter eucalyptus leaves down the aisle for a fresh, fragrant walkway!
43) Vintage lanterns
Vintage lanterns are a beautiful and eclectic way to decorate your rustic wedding venue. You can find a range of vintage lanterns at antique shops, vintage shops, and charity shops. Fill them with candles or fairy lights to create a warm, cosy glow. Place them on tables, hang them from trees, or line pathways with them for a magical effect.
44) Burlap table runners
Burlap table runners are a staple of rustic wedding decor. They’re perfect on both long or round tables, and add an earthy, textured element to your decor. Pair them with lace or doilies for a touch of vintage charm, and top with simple centrepieces like mason jars filled with wildflowers or candles to complete the look.
45) Wooden discs & mason jars
You can’t go wrong with wooden discs and mason jars. They’re a classic and foolproof option for rustic wedding table decor because they bring a natural, down-to-earth vibe to your tables. Place the wooden discs as bases for your centrepieces and top them with mason jars filled with wildflowers, candles, or fairy lights. Wrap the jars in burlap or twine to complete the look.
46) Barrel tables
If you’re struggling to find outdoor furniture, consider making some tables out of old wine or whiskey barrels. These are much easier to get hold of as they’re often sold second hand as junk. They’re the perfect height for sitting or standing, and you can even make quick chairs out of them by adding a wooden board on top. Decorate with a simple tablecloth or leave them bare for an authentic rustic look.
47) Wildflower bouquets
Collect a bunch of local wildflowers and arrange them haphazardly in a jam or mason jar. You only need a few for an authentic, rustic look, and you can spruce up the jars with ribbon, twine, or burlap. Try to use flowers that are seasonal to your wedding month. This way, you’ll be reminded of your special day every time you see them.
48) Homemade favours
Try making your own homemade wedding favours to give you guests on your special day. Depending on what you have available, this could be homemade honey, homemade jam, little fortune tellers, shortbread, or even handcrafted soaps. Personalise each favour with a label or tag that includes your names and wedding date, and package them in rustic materials like burlap or greaseproof paper.
49) Vintage books
Collect a range of vintage books from second-hand shops or antique shops. Look for books with beautiful, ornate covers, or consider using cloth, leather or hard-bound books. Stack them on your tables as charming centrepieces, or use them to add some extra height and flair to your decor displays.
To give them an even more rustic feel, tie them together with twine or colourful ribbons. You could even mix in a few sprigs of lavender or small flowers for a delightful, whimsical touch. These vintage books will not only look beautiful, but also spark curiosity and conversation among your guests. Try including a few of your favourites for a personal touch!
50) Pinecones and fauna
Pinecones and fauna are a simple and cost-effective way to decorate your wedding venue in a rustic style. Scatter pine cones along tables or use them as part of your centrepieces. You can also fill glass jars or wooden bowls with pinecones for a natural, earthy look. For a touch of colour, consider mixing in some seasonal foliage or dried flowers.
Pro tip: Pinecones make great place card holders, too. Simply cut a small slit in the top and slide in a name card. It’s a charming and practical detail that fits perfectly with a rustic theme.
Plan your perfect rustic wedding with Bridebook
The beauty of rustic weddings is their focus on DIY decor and the undone beauty of nature. Don’t be afraid to leave your burlap frayed, your cake uniced, or wear a sweet tea length gown with wellies. A rustic wedding is all about you and letting your personal style shine through.
That said, the customisability of a rustic wedding can make planning a little overwhelming. With so many options to choose from, it can be tricky to know which one is right. Luckily, Bridebook is here to help!
With Bridebook, planning your dream rustic wedding couldn’t be easier. Our app offers everything you need, from finding the perfect venue to connecting with talented vendors who share your vision. Use our tools to stay organised, manage your budget, and track your guest list effortlessly. It’s your new wedding BFF!
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Happy Planning!
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