Simple Country Wedding Ideas for an Elegant and Stylish Event

Saying “I do” while standing with your partner and amidst nature’s beauty creates memories of unforgettable celebrations off the books. Some delightful ideas will make your wedding day truly magical and can add elegance by blending heartfelt traditions into the event. 

Finding a Perfect Location

Barn Wedding

Barns are typical for rustic country weddings. They offer enough space and a simple, homely charm that’s hard to beat. Many barns are already set up for events, which makes them easier to decorate and accommodate guests. 

Outdoor Field or Meadow

An open field is an inspiring backdrop for your country wedding. Consider renting a large tent there that will provide shelter and create a cozy atmosphere. For example, vineyards with rows of grapevines are excellent for ceremonies and receptions.

Farmhouse

A farmhouse allows for an intimate setting. It is a great choice for both indoor and outdoor spaces to be used for the wedding. Look for farms that host weddings and have experience accommodating large events.

Setting the Scene: Decorations

Mason Jars

Fill mason jars with wildflowers, sunflowers, or your favorite blooms. You can place a single jar in the center of each table or group several jars of different sizes together for a more exquisite display. Tie a piece of twine or lace around the neck of these jars for an extra countryside touch.

Alternatively, fill the jars with sand, pebbles, or beans, then add a candle or a small bouquet on top. These make beautiful, glowing centerpieces, especially for evening receptions. For added decoration, add flower petals or stones to the bottom of the jars.

Burlap and Lace

Burlaps can be used for table runners, chair sashes, and bouquet wraps, and sewing them with laces adds a romantic feel and enhances the country theme for your wedding decor.

Wildflowers

Add wildflowers to your bouquets, centerpieces, and ceremony decor. They add a natural, colorful touch and are often more affordable than traditional flowers. An idea here is to design an old-fashioned arbor and decorate it with fresh or dried flowers in bright, beautiful colors.

String Lights

Hang string lights in the barn, tent, or outdoor area to create a romantic heaven as the sun sets. You can also use them to decorate the wedding truck for a great photo op.

Attire

Bride

Choose a flowing dress for a soft and romantic look. Lace or chiffon are good choices here for simplicity.

Groom

Casual suits or even suspenders and bow ties can fit the country theme. Select lighter colors and fabrics for a relaxed yet polished appearance.

Bridal Party

Choose dresses that complement the country theme. Bridesmaids can wear mismatched dresses in coordinating colors, and groomsmen can don vests or suspenders.

You can also dress up your dogs by adding a bowtie and letting them roam. This will surely put a smile on the people attending the wedding. Get a few horses as well for that unique country touch.

Delicious Country Fare: Food and Drink

BBQ or Picnic Style

Serve BBQ or buffet-style meals. These options are hearty and delicious and also add to the laid-back atmosphere.

Local Produce

Let your guests fill their plates with dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, along with fresh local fruits. For starters, delicious cheeses, chili cornbread, tacos, and potato salad are some options. This not only supports local farmers but also ensures fresh and seasonal fare.

Homemade Desserts

Instead of a traditional wedding cake, consider offering pies, cookies, or a naked cake. These desserts are more in line with the country theme. You can choose to wrap a rope around the cake and decorate it with southwestern vivid colors.

Entertainment and Activities

Lawn Games

Try setting up a few lawn games like cornhole, horseshoes, or croquet for your guests. These games are fun for all ages and help create a casual, festive environment.

Bonfire

A bonfire is a wonderful way to end the evening. Sit around it with friends, drink beer, eat s’mores, sing country songs, and provide them blankets to stay warm.  

Live Music

Hire a local band or musician to play country, bluegrass, or folk music. Live music will let your guests up their heels like a country scene.

Thoughtful Favors

• Homemade Jams: Small jars of homemade jam or honey make delightful favors. They’re personal, delicious, and fit the country theme perfectly.
• Favor Jars: Give guests seeds or herbs in jars as favors. Tie a thank-you tag around them and include care instructions for your guests. This offers a lasting memory of your wedding.
• Personalized Mason Jars: Offer guests personalized mason jars with their names. These can double as both a favor and a practical item for the event. Add fun straws and tags with your wedding date for uniqueness.

Tips for a Smooth Country Wedding

Weather can be unpredictable in outdoor country weddings. Have a backup plan, like a tent or an indoor space, to make sure your day goes by regardless of the weather.

A wedding coordinator familiar with country weddings can be invaluable. They can help manage logistics, coordinate vendors, and ensure everything runs smoothly.

While drawing inspiration from others is great, your wedding should show your own style and preferences to make your day more meaningful and unique.

Hire an experienced photographer for your simple country wedding because they will have everything to capture the essence of the ceremony.