Rustic barn wedding

What it is

A wedding in a converted barn or farm venue: exposed beams, fairy lights, long wooden tables and a relaxed country feel. Barn venues often allow you to bring your own suppliers, which can save money and give a personal touch.

Plan ahead

• 12-18 months before: visit barn venues. Ask about heating, toilets, curfew, and whether you can choose your own caterer.
• 9 months before: book catering, a band or ceilidh, a photographer and florist.
• 2 months before: order decorations and plan the table layout.

Set the scene

Long trestle tables with hessian runners, jam jar flowers (gypsophila, wildflowers), candles in lanterns, fairy lights in the rafters, hay bale seating outside and wooden signs.

Ideas

• Lawn games outside for the drinks reception
• Dessert table with pies, cakes and a donut wall
• Ceilidh for a guaranteed full dance floor
• Hog roast for evening guests

Food and drink

• Sharing-style feasting boards or a hog roast
• A cheese wheel wedding cake
• Local ales, cider, prosecco and lemonade

Tips

• Barns get cold at night - check heating and offer blankets.
• Some barns have steep stairs or uneven floors; check access for older guests.