Personally, we love barn weddings. They’re that perfect mix of rustic and charm. But if you want to plan a barn wedding, there are some things you need to know. Planning a barn wedding comes with a set of unique challenges, but the perfect barn wedding is possible if you follow our tips.

Choose the right barn

Not all barns are created equal, and it’s important to consider one that suits your style and needs. If you’re working with an actual barn wedding venue, chances are it has what you need, and you’re focusing more on size, style, and location when making the decision. However, if you’re dealing with a private barn, you’ll need to make sure you have the amenities you need for a wedding. This includes electricity, parking, and restrooms, as well as the factors we’ve already mentioned. Depending on the barn, you might also need to consider heating. Just because you’re getting married in the summer doesn’t mean it will be hot, especially once the sun falls.

It’s always important to create a comfortable experience for your guests, so unless you’re up for a big renovation project, pick a barn that makes sense.

Get a planner with experience

We’re big fans of wedding planners because we think they help make your wedding a more relaxing experience. If you’re having a barn wedding, it’s worth hiring a wedding planner with experience planning one. On top of all the usual reasons to hire a wedding planner, you’ll have someone who can guide you through the unique experience of a barn wedding. This is especially true if you’re getting married in a barn that’s going to be more complicated logistically.

Consider lighting

Lighting is important with any wedding, but it’s essential if you want to plan a barn wedding. You want to create the right ambiance and make sure your guests can see where they’re going. So, make sure you have plenty of lighting options. A combination of string lights, lanterns, and candles is always great for a rustic wedding. If you want a more elegant atmosphere, you can add a chandelier or two.

Embrace the rustic style

The beauty of a barn wedding is its natural rustic style. So, embrace the natural beauty of the barn and its surroundings. You can keep the décor simple, or you can go all out but take advantage of natural elements. This includes wood, burlap, twine, and even hay, as well as wildflowers and greenery. Large farm tables are an amazing option for creating your reception space if you’re looking for rustic but elegant.

Consider the sound system

Depending on the barn, the acoustics can be tricky. This means it’s important to consider your sound system or hire a DJ or band that has experience with barn weddings. If you’re DIYing your music (which we don’t typically recommend), test the sound system before your wedding day.

Have fun with the menu

We’ve written before about how to create the perfect menu for your wedding day. Considering your theme is the best starting point for putting together your wedding day meal. If you’re having a barn wedding, you can get rustic and casual with the food. From a buffet full of comfort foods to a big barbecue to focusing on farm-to-table cuisine, the options are endless. You can also opt for family-style serving, which can be a fun way to get your guests talking too.  

A barn wedding can be such a unique and beautiful affair, but you have to plan ahead and make sure you’re taking care of the logistics. Then, you can sit back and enjoy the rustic charm and natural beauty of your venue. Comment below and let us know which tip was the most helpful to you!