When it comes to weddings, couples nowadays are moving away from traditional settings and opting for unique, personal and charming themes that reflect their personalities. One such trend that has gained immense popularity is the rustic wedding theme. Rustic weddings emanate a warm, intimate and timeless vibe, that celebrates the beauty of nature and simplicity.
In this blog post, Encore Musicians will be exploring the captivating world of rustic weddings and discovering the perfect rustic wedding musicians that complement your idyllic wedding day.
Rustic Wedding Invitations
- Kraft paper or wood grain textures for that earthy feel.
- Wildflowers, twine, lace, and wax seals – rustic charm in every detail.
- Casual wording and playful RSVPs for a laidback, casual vibe.
Rustic Venues
- The venue sets the scene for your big day. Popular choices for rustic wedding venues include charming barns, quaint windmills and gorgeous country houses. The exposed beams, stone walls, and open spaces will instantly set the rustic tone.
- If weather permits, hold your ceremony under a majestic oak tree or in a wildflower meadow. Fresh air and natural light are your best friends when it comes to rustic weddings.
Rustic fashion
The dress
For a rustic wedding, the ideal dress should capture the essence of nature’s beauty and blend seamlessly with the laid-back elegance of the setting. Here are some ideas to inspire your search:
Silhouettes and Fabrics:
- Flowy and ethereal: Choose silhouettes that move effortlessly, like A-lines, empire waists, or boho-chic maxi dresses. Think soft chiffons, silks, or lace for a touch of romance.
- Vintage charm: Embrace vintage-inspired cuts like tea-length dresses with playful ruffles or swing dresses with cinched waists. Linen, cotton, and even chambray can add a rustic touch.
- Modern twist: Don’t be afraid to inject some modern elements. A contemporary slip dress with a lace overlay or a jumpsuit with delicate embroidery can still evoke the rustic vibe.
Colour Palette and Details:
- Earthy tones: Opt for warm hues like terracotta, sage green, dusty rose, or even muted blues.
- Floral prints: Embrace floral patterns that evoke wildflowers or meadow blooms. Keep the prints delicate and avoid anything overly bold or graphic.
- Luminous details: Lace, embroidery, and delicate beading can add a touch of sparkle and romance. Think of them like dewdrops on a flower petal.
- Unique accessories: Skip the traditional veil and consider a floral crown, a woven headband, or a simple ribbon tied in your hair. Keep jewellery understated and natural-looking.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to consider the practicalities! If your wedding is outdoors, choose a dress that’s comfortable to move in and won’t snag on any rough surfaces. And if it’s chilly, consider a shawl or light jacket for later in the evening.
Bridesmaids
Ditch the matchy-matchy look and let your bridesmaids embrace their individuality with flowy maxi dresses in earthy tones. Think floral prints, soft silks, and lace for a touch of romance.
Groom
Suspenders, tweed waistcoats, and earthy-toned suits are perfect for the rustic groom. Think natural fabrics like linen and cotton for a relaxed yet stylish look.
Rustic Décor
- Wood: Let wood be your guiding star. Think wooden farm tables adorned with burlap runners, mismatched vintage chairs, and centrepieces featuring mason jars filled with wildflowers.
- Greenery: Garlands of eucalyptus, ivy, and wildflowers will add a touch of whimsy and life to your décor. Don’t shy away from other fresh flowers, or potted herbs and succulents either!
- Twinkle & Glow: Fairy lights are a must-have! String them over tree branches, drape them around doorways, or weave them into your centrepieces for a magical touch. Lanterns and candles will add a warm, inviting ambience.
- Personal Touches: What makes your love story unique? Incorporate elements that reflect your personalities and shared passions. Perhaps it’s a vintage bicycle guestbook or a playlist of songs you get to.
- DIY Magic: Get crafty! Handmade table runners, mason jar favours filled with local honey, or a hand-painted welcome sign will add a special touch.
- Embrace the Imperfect: Don’t get hung up on perfection. Rustic weddings are all about relaxed charm, so let go of any anxieties and enjoy the celebration of your love!
Rustic Wedding Cake Ideas
Flavours
- Rustic Classics: Embrace flavours like vanilla, carrot, lemon, red velvet, or even chocolate with spiced fruit fillings for a warming touch.
- Naked or Semi-Naked: Skip the heavy icing and let the layers of cake take centre stage. Decorate with naked buttercream rosettes, fresh fruit, or edible flowers.
- Tiered Textures: Combine smooth buttercream with textured icing-like basketweave or wood-grain patterns for a touch of rustic charm.
Decor
- Fresh and Foraged: Top your cake with edible flowers, herbs, and berries for a whimsical, seasonal touch. Think lavender sprigs, rosemary leaves, blueberries, and figs.
- Dried Floral Magic: For longer-lasting beauty, incorporate dried flowers and foliage alongside fresh ones. Pampas grass, eucalyptus, and dried wildflowers add a romantic, bohemian vibe.
- Fruitful Adornments: Arrange slices of citrus fruits, apples, or pears on your cake for a vibrant and delicious decoration. Consider drizzling them with honey or a simple glaze for extra shine.
- Rustic Toppers: Ditch the traditional figurines and choose unique toppers like a hand-painted wooden sign, a vintage cake topper, or even a pair of miniature antlers.
Alternative Rustic Wedding Cake Ideas
- Cupcake Tower: Individual rustic cupcakes are fun and easy to share. Decorate them with buttercream swirls, fresh fruit, or piped chocolate leaves.
- Dessert Platter: Create a grazing board of sweet treats like mini pies, tarts, cookies, and brownies. Arrange them on a rustic wooden board with fruit and greenery for a casual yet stunning dessert display.
- Cheese Wheel Cake: For a savoury alternative, stack tiers of different cheeses and decorate with nuts, honey, and dried fruit. It’s a unique and delicious option for cheese lovers.
Rustic Food
- Comfort Food Feasts: Skip the stuffy sit-down dinner and go for a casual grazing spread. Think platters of roasted vegetables, artisan breads, mini pies, and locally sourced cheeses. Don’t forget a signature cocktail with seasonal fruits and herbs!
Rustic Wedding Entertainment
When it comes to choosing live musicians for your rustic wedding, the key is to evoke a warm, relaxed atmosphere that complements the natural beauty of your setting. Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
Solo Acts
- Singing Guitarist: An acoustic guitar and soulful vocals can create a truly intimate and romantic atmosphere. Look for artists who blend folk, country, or even indie influences with their music.
- Harpist: The ethereal sounds of a harp will elevate your ceremony or cocktail hour to a truly magical level. They can play classical pieces, folk melodies, or even modern covers.
- Flautist: Add a touch of elegance and whimsy with a solo flautist. Imagine romantic classical pieces, lively folk tunes, or even modern covers with a rustic edge.
Small Ensembles
- Folk Trio: A guitar, mandolin, and upright bass combination is a classic recipe for rustic musical magic. They can play lively jigs, melancholic ballads, and everything in between.
- String Quartet: For a touch of elegance, consider a string quartet. Choose one that performs a variety of genres, from classical pieces to modern covers with a rustic twist.
- Jazz Band: A jazz band with saxophone, trumpet, piano, bass, and drums can add a lively and sophisticated touch to your reception. Choose a group that can play smooth jazz standards or swing numbers that will get your guests dancing.
Expert tips for choosing your rustic musician:
- Local Talent: Consider supporting local musicians or bands who specialize in folk, country, or bluegrass music. You’ll get a unique and authentic sound that reflects the character of your region.
- Unplugged Ceremony: If you’re having an outdoor ceremony, consider keeping the music unplugged. Let the sounds of nature be your soundtrack and enjoy the intimacy of live, acoustic music.
- Interactive Musicians: Hire musicians who can engage your guests throughout the day. A strolling acoustic guitarist or a fiddler who can teach basic dance moves can add a fun and interactive element to your celebration.
Final thoughts
In the world of weddings, the rustic theme stands out for its timeless appeal and genuine connection to nature. To enhance this enchanting atmosphere, carefully select musicians who can bring the celebration to life with their soulful tunes.
Whether it’s the twang of a banjo, the strumming of an acoustic guitar, or the poetic lyrics of a folk singer, the right musical accompaniment can transform your special day into a rustic fairytale.
Ready to book? Check out our collection of skilled wedding musicians ready to turn your rustic wedding dreams into a reality.