Tying the Knot in Rustic Style
In the last couple of years, the humble (yet increasingly luxurious) barn wedding concept has exploded in popularity. People are drawn to the charming blend of rustic elegance, wild-west themes, and cowboy dress codes. Barn venues capture all of this with their exposed beams, warm wood tones, and open spaces creating a magical atmosphere. But, crafting the perfect barn wedding requires careful planning so at Otis & Oliver, we’ve compiled a simple checklist to help you plan your dream wedding.
1. Finding Your Dream Barn:
The venue is the heart of your barn wedding. Consider these factors:
- Capacity: Ensure the barn comfortably accommodates your guest list, including space for dancing and dining.
- Amenities: Does it have restrooms, heating/cooling, and a kitchen or catering prep area? You might want a rustic vibe, but most guests won’t be excited to use an old-timey outhouse.
- Location: Is it easily accessible for guests? Consider travel time and accommodation options. Likely not everyone on your invite will have a 4-wheel drive vehicle.
- Aesthetics: Does the barn's style align with your vision? Evaluate its condition, lighting, and surrounding landscape.
- Permits and Restrictions: Check for noise ordinances, alcohol restrictions, and any necessary permits.
2. Embracing the Rustic Charm:
Enhance the barn's natural beauty with thoughtful décor:
- Lighting: String lights, fairy lights, and Edison bulbs create a warm, romantic ambiance. Consider chandeliers for a touch of elegance.
- Floral Arrangements: Wildflowers, greenery, and rustic bouquets complement the barn setting. Use mason jars, wooden crates, and vintage containers for arrangements.
- Natural Elements: Incorporate wooden accents, burlap, lace, and natural fabrics. Utilize hay bales for décor (or even for guest seating.)
- Personal Touches: Display photos, vintage wooden signs, and possibly some handcrafted details to personalize the space.

Photo by Eric Brehm on Unsplash
3. Planning for Practicalities:
Depending on how authentic your barn venue is, you may need to do some extra planning:
- Weather Contingency: Have a backup plan for inclement weather. Most official wedding venues will have ways to keep you dry and/or warm. Ensure that you talk with the venue owner about options in case of non-optimal weather.
- Power Supply: Ensure adequate power for lighting, music, and catering equipment.
- Accessibility: Consider guests with mobility issues and ensure the venue is accessible for wheelchairs and the elderly.
- Sound System: Test the acoustics and ensure a quality sound system for music and speeches. Barns can be prone to echoes, depending on their size and contents.
- Pest Control: Real barns are often home to a variety of mice, bugs, and other critters that could be unwanted guests at your wedding or reception. Speak with your venue about pest control measures, especially during warmer months.
4. Make Sure Your Groomsmen and Guests Have The Perfect Ties:
Here are some of our favorite styles for barn weddings.
5. Creating a Memorable Experience:
Make your barn wedding unique:
- Food and Drink: Consider opting for a farm-to-table menu, classic American cooking, or something else that fits the rural American vibe.
- Entertainment: I am always partial to live music and believe that barn wedding venues are the perfect place to host a local live band. Additionally, consider lawn games or a bonfire for added fun.
- Photography: Capture the rustic beauty of your wedding with a photographer who specializes in natural light and outdoor settings.
- Favors: Offer rustic favors like small jars of honey, personalized mason jars, or really anything made of wood.
6. Enjoying the Process:
Planning any wedding can be a stressful, yet exciting experience. Remember to:
- Delegate Tasks: Enlist the help of friends, family, or a wedding planner.
- Stay Organized: Create a timeline and checklist to keep track of tasks.
- Embrace Flexibility: Be prepared for unexpected changes and enjoy the journey.
- Most Importantly: Relax and savor every moment of your special day.