B A N Q U E T S , R E C E P T I O N S , S H O W E R S & P A R T I E S
C H I C A G O W E D D I N G & P A R T Y R E S O U R C E
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You want a wedding that feels warm and comfortable but
also stylish and classy. Natural, yet beautifully detailed. Per-
sonal but with a nod to tradition. And, of course, downright
fun. Chances are a “rustic chic” theme would be a great fit
for your fête.
THE DEFINITION
The rustic chic aesthetic can be defined as a casually ele-
gant and eclectic mix of old and new, brought together with
a homespun vibe. Martha Stewart was the first to make it
popular in the late ’90s, bringing that casually elegant twist
to “fancy.” It has swept the nation, and has been prevalent
in the mountain states for about 10 years. It’s the non-stuffy
wedding approach.
It can be further described as mixing natural, raw and
woodsy elements with more refined and polished details.
Couples are particularly drawn to this wedding style be-
cause it’s easy to make it your own depending on personal
taste and geographic location. Everything from vintage to
country to backyard weddings could be put under the um-
brella term of “rustic chic.”
THEME PARTY
Barns and fields are natural settings for a rustic chic wed-
ding, but they certainly aren’t a requirement. To get the vibe
even if your venue is more town than country deck out your
décor with birch candleholders and vases, lace table run-
ners and mismatched vintage china, glassware and/or sil-
ver. Also, a mix of simple, farmers market-style bunches of
flowers, lots of candles, and touches of twine and burlap, as
well as incorporating mason jars, old crates and galvanized
metal. Muted hues like cream, grays, dusty rose, jade and
soft gold are often a good fit, as are wood accents (signs, table
runners, chargers) and unique lighting, such as paper lan-
terns or antique chandeliers.
Give guests a night to remember with a rollicking contra
or bluegrass band and rustic-themed photo booth. Sending
them home with favors featuring local flavors like jam, hon-
ey, maple syrup or granola is a perfect touch.
AISLE STYLE
For fashion, you don’t have to forgo an elegant gown (or veil)
just because you’re having a rustic-style wedding. Designers
Jenny Packham and Claire Pettibone are making dresses that
are both gorgeous and appropriate for the vibe, while fash-
ion-forward and often more affordable lines like BHLDN
and J. Crew are also in the mix. Don’t make it complicated.
Take a very traditional, plain dress, throw on a stunning bib
necklace and cowboy boots, and call it good. Simple hair
styles, turquoise jewelry, brooches and bracelets will also
add rustic charm.
For your bridesmaids, prints (stripes, dots, flowers) are
fair game, as is letting your ladies pick the style that suits
them best within a particular palette. And there are numer-
ous options for the men, from light gray or khaki suits with
a great tie, to the no-jacket/open shirt approach, to suspend-
ers, bow ties, fun socks, boots or sneakers. The true key to a
rustic chic wedding is being authentic.
Copyright © CTW Features
Rustic Wedding
Style Guide
Want a wedding that fits right in
with the fall season?
Here’s how to go ‘rustic chic’
By Anna Sachse, CTW Features
Robin Falk Photography
