You’re planning your perfect Southern wedding—but you’re not sure what that exactly means. There are so many different variations on the Southern theme; how do you know which one’s right for you?
Here are 5 of the hottest themes to choose from, and ideas for how you can turn them into a reality.
- Rustic Barn
If you’re a country couple at heart, a rustic barn wedding could be perfect for you. It’s casual and fun and focuses on simple, down-home elements rather than tons of glitz and glam. Elements can include:
- cowboy boots and hats for the bridal party
- hay bales for ceremony seating
- lights and/or fabric hung from the rafters
- wildflower bouquets and centerpieces
- farm elements: horseshoes, wagon wheels, crates
- Shabby Chic
If you want to embrace the country element with a little more elegance, a shabby chic theme is ideal. You retain the natural, casual aspects while upping the bling factor just a tad. Elements can include:
- mason jars
- lace and burlap
- wooden accents
- vintage or antique accessories
- tarnished silver
- Garden Party
A classic garden wedding is pretty and romantic. You can keep it sweet and simple or make it luxurious and opulent, depending on your tastes. Elements can include:
- cottage garden flowers: roses, hydrangeas, lavender
- birdcages
- garden accessories: baskets, watering cans, trellises
- tea party finger foods for appetizers
- butterfly or dragonfly accents
- Stately Manor
If you want to make a statement, evoke the grandeur of a southern estate wedding. Your big day is sure to feel special. Elements can include:
- grand staircases
- high-ceilinged ballrooms
- sprawling verandas
- big ball gowns
- manicured gardens
- candelabras
- Fairy Tale
Classic and beautiful, a fairy tale wedding will make you feel like royalty for the day—and will tell your guests your love is one for the history books. Elements can include:
- a horse-drawn carriage
- lots of bling
- silks and satins
- complex updos
- monograms