Whether you’re planning a glamorous New Year’s Eve black-tie bash or a laid-back beach affair, it’s the details that will bring your wedding vision come to life. And if you’ve always dreamt of a rustic day, you’re in luck, because today, bridal designer Sarah Janks is sharing all the must-haves for the perfect rustic wedding. Read on for her tips, and then head to The Vault for even more inspiration!
THE DRESS
The wedding dress will always be one of the hottest topics of the day. Because it’s kept under wraps, everyone wants to see what the bride is wearing. Embrace your natural style and work with what you have. Your dress choice will be influenced by the venue, indoors or outdoor options and weather. So, once you have the venue and destination locked in, it makes choosing a dress that much easier.
If your rustic wedding takes place out in the sunlight, choose a dress choice that photographs well in the natural light. Remember that different fabrics reflect light differently — heavy silks and crepes are fluid and move with the body, giving a svelte, sophisticated overall effect. Whereas, floatier choices such as silk georgette and chiffons lend a more ethereal feel to the look. Add a single tier veil for a magical effect or keep it natural with flowers in your hair.
When you put on your gown, you should feel like a million dollars and head out with confidence, focusing on the days celebrations, knowing you look fabulous.
THE VENUE
There’s a wonderful Italian word – sprezzatura – which means style and elegance executed with a certain nonchalance. That is really the rustic feeling for me– seamless, effortless grace and beauty, complemented by a beautiful natural venue and décor.
Every bride has a unique idea of how their wedding should come together and different venues can satisfy these out of the box ideas while still incorporating rustic elements such as:
- Resorts with a rustic twang
- Floral gardens with natural beauty
- A country lodge
- Vineyard/ Winery
- The backyard of a sentimental place
THE DECOR
I love white flowers in a rustic setting! It’s similar to the single tier veil – a nod to tradition, but a modern take thereon. Here are some of my favorite rustic décor ideas to incorporate into your own wedding:
- Use flowers in unconventional ways: weave florals or crystal adornment into the hair rather than a typical flower crown and create a whimsical feel with a flower canopy draped over your aisle/reception. Keep lighting soft and natural
- Reinvent the Mason Jar: use it as a wishing well and give each guest a piece of paper, have them write a tip for marriage or a well-wish and place it in one of the jars. Or, use the jars as photo frames: Pictures of you and your soon-to-be hubby in each, These could be engagement photos or candids from over the years!
CALLING THE SHOTS
Outdoors or indoors, photos are of the utmost importance- especially with a beautiful rustic atmosphere. Choose your photographer wisely – look through their portfolio and find someone who has the look you’re after and you feel comfortable working with. Map out your day in advance and create a shot list for the photographer. This can include pictures and creative angles with your gals while getting ready to special moments during the reception like the father-daughter dance. My favorite moments are often the candids though– shots taken of the bride and groom or guests that are unaware a photo is being taken. The emotion is so genuine! With that said not all pictures need to be posed. Let your photographer leave your side and don’t panic, candids many times speak louder than staged photos.
