If you’re a fan of festivals, why not bring those same carefree vibes to your special day? After all, what’s not to love about live music, laid-back celebrations, the great outdoors, and even camping?!
But how do you capture that festival essence in your wedding planning? As someone who’s had the pleasure of witnessing hundreds of creative and fun-filled festival-inspired nuptials, I’m excited to share my top tips and ideas with you. From unique venues to out-of-the-box entertainment options and decor inspiration, we’ll explore it all.
So if you’re ready to let loose and have an unforgettable celebration, keep reading for the ultimate guide on how to plan your festival-themed wedding.
Festival Wedding Outfit & Style Tips
Wedding Dresses
When it comes to choosing the perfect wedding dress, it’s easy to get caught up in visions of fairytale-like gowns and forget about practicality. But why should your dress dictate the tone of your special day? Instead, think about what you want to achieve – do you want to dance the night away or make a bold statement? Consider your venue, the activities you have planned, and even the weather forecast. For instance, if your ceremony is being held outdoors, you may want to opt for a dress that’s easy to move around in, rather than one that’s going to get caught up in the wind. And if your venue is prone to getting muddy, don’t worry about ruining your dress – choose something that can withstand the elements or wear wellies with pride! Ultimately, the most important thing is that you feel confident and comfortable on your big day. So go ahead, take a deep breath, and let your dress reflect your unique personality and style.
Wedding Suits
For a festival wedding, you can still exude formality while embracing a more relaxed atmosphere. To achieve this, consider incorporating some trendy and casual elements into your wedding suit. This can be done by mixing and matching different pieces, accessorizing with unique items, and opting for open collars. The possibilities are endless!
To get started, try swapping out the traditional collar for an open-necked look or a stylish neckerchief. You could also add some flair with a bow tie or alternative buttonholes. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to accessorizing – badges, lapel pins, and even trainers can make great additions.
For a truly unique look, consider skipping the suit jacket altogether and wearing braces instead. Tweed or linen fabrics can also add a touch of rustic charm to your overall ensemble. And why not take it up a notch by swapping out trousers for shorts or opting for wellies over traditional dress shoes?
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of a great hat – it can be the perfect finishing touch for your festival-inspired wedding suit.
Have An Outfit Change!
Why not elevate your daytime look to a sophisticated evening ensemble? As the sun sets and the festivities heat up, why settle for anything less than the ultimate festival getup? Pair your daytime attire with an equally impressive evening outfit to create a truly memorable look. After all, who says you can’t bring a little glamour to the great outdoors?
Don’t Forget Your Hair-Do
Give your hairstyle a laid-back vibe by combining plaits, flowers, beach waves, and accessories. Perfect for a music festival or summer wedding, this look is all about embracing the effortless cool of the season. Take inspiration from the stylish photo above, featuring hair by Lynnette Chasmer Bridal Hairstylist.
Wear Hats
As the sun sets, effortlessly elevate your evening attire by incorporating a statement-making hat. In fact, you can never go wrong with having multiple hat options at your disposal. With an embellished hat or two, you’ll be sure to make a stylish impression on all who lay eyes on you.
Flower Crowns All Round
Transform the entire wedding party into a picturesque, free-spirited ensemble by adorning them with bohemian-inspired flower crowns. Alternatively, set up an interactive station where guests can craft their own unique floral creations, fostering a sense of community and excitement within the celebration. This whimsical touch is sure to leave a lasting impression on your loved ones, as captured beautifully in this shot by Kevin Fern Photography for Outside Inside Wedding.
Your Festival Wedding Venue
UK Festival Wedding Venues
When it comes to festival wedding venues, there are countless options to choose from. Recently, I’ve had the pleasure of highlighting some truly unique and special spots that perfectly capture the essence of a festive celebration. From the rolling hills of Cambridgeshire to the rugged landscapes of Scotland’s Highlands, these exceptional venues offer an unforgettable experience for couples looking to tie the knot in style. Some of my personal favorites include Horsley Hale Farm in Cambridgeshire, Rushmere Farm Workshops in Hampshire, and Endeavour Woodland Weddings in Buckinghamshire, which offer a tranquil atmosphere amidst lush greenery. Lynsted Park in Kent, Holmwood Park in Devon, and Mount Pleasant Eco Park in Cornwall are also must-visit destinations for any couple seeking an eco-friendly wedding celebration. For those looking to incorporate a rustic charm into their big day, I highly recommend exploring Happy Valley Norfolk in Norfolk, Hidden River Barn in Cumbria, or Glevering Hall in Suffolk. Of course, there’s something to be said for the whimsical and romantic settings offered by Hammed and Pincers in County Durham, Hadsham Farm Weddings in Oxfordshire, Longton Wood in Kent, Alderford Lake in Shropshire, Brook Farm in Hertfordshire, The Hidden Hive in Derbyshire, Ash Farm Barns in Lincolnshire, Alcott Farm in Worcestershire, Bach Wen Farm & Cottages in North Wales, Blithfield Lakeside Barns in Staffordshire, Fforest in Wales, The Party Field in East Sussex, Overgrown Acres in Nottinghamshire, Pennard Hill Farm in Somerset, Log Cabin Ravensheugh in East Lothian, Glen Dye in Scottish Highlands, Yew Tree Farm in Cumbria, and The Lakeside in Bedfordshire. And for those couples looking to create an unforgettable experience, Barnston Lodge in Essex and Cheshire Woodland Weddings in Cheshire are top-notch choices.
Head Outdoors
Imagine exchanging vows and celebrating with loved ones amidst nature’s breathtaking beauty. A woodland ceremony, tipi reception, or alfresco dancing could be a truly unforgettable experience. However, it’s essential to have a backup plan in place should the weather fail to cooperate on your special day. After all, as any seasoned wedding planner knows, Mother Nature can be quite unpredictable! A wise move would be to prepare for the unexpected and ensure that your outdoor celebration remains nothing short of magical, regardless of the forecast.
Craft Your Dream Ceremony
For a truly bespoke and meaningful celebration, consider opting for a humanist or celebrant-led ceremony. This format offers the flexibility to incorporate unique rituals and elements that reflect your personal connection with one another. While some outdoor ceremonies may not be legally binding, you can always make it official at a later time. What’s more, this approach allows you to tailor the ceremony to your relationship’s distinctive character, creating an unforgettable experience for both of you.
Festival Wedding Decoration Ideas
Create Your Own Lanyards
To elevate your event’s ambiance and give guests a sense of excitement, consider replacing traditional invitations with unique, festival-inspired lanyards. These wearable keepsakes will not only serve as an unconventional invitation but also set the tone for the rest of the celebration. The image above, courtesy of Lynsey Grace Photography via Orange Blue Festival Wedding, beautifully captures this concept in action.
Give Out Wristband Favours
When it comes to choosing a meaningful and memorable wedding favour for your guests, why not consider something that they can wear? Wristbands are a fantastic idea – not only do they serve as a tangible reminder of your special day, but they also make for a unique and practical keepsake. Just imagine the smiles on your guests’ faces when they slip one on their wrist, feeling connected to you both even after the celebration has ended.
Choose Bright Wildflowers
Envision strolling through the lush meadows of Glastonbury and gathering an assortment of vibrant blooms. This whimsical approach is just one way to incorporate festival-inspired flowers into your wedding celebration. Feel free to get creative with dried flowers, foliage, or any other botanical beauty that resonates with you. The possibilities are endless!
Take Inspo From The Retro Era
Embrace the nostalgia of bygone eras by looking to festivals of yesteryear for inspiration. The 1970s, with its distinctive retro aesthetic and vibrant color palette, offers a treasure trove of creative possibilities. Draw on this era’s carefree spirit and nostalgic charm to infuse your own celebrations with a unique and memorable flair. For instance, consider incorporating retro-inspired design elements, such as bold typography and geometric patterns, into your event’s visual identity. You might also draw inspiration from the decade’s iconic colors, like burnt orange, avocado green, and powder blue, to create a cohesive and Instagram-worthy atmosphere.
Put Up Flags
A festival’s ambiance is often set from the moment guests arrive, and what better way to create that buzz than with iconic festival flags! The vibrant colors and striking designs of these banners can instantly transport attendees into a world of excitement and anticipation. In fact, the absence of such flags might leave an otherwise fantastic celebration feeling flat. It’s all about setting the tone early on, as captured beautifully in this stunning image from Robin Studios Photography at Big Top Farm Party Wedding.
Make DIY Giant Festival Letters
Create personalized festival letters from wood to make a lasting impression on your event’s attendees. Design your own unique festival name and craft custom wooden signs to welcome guests in a stylish manner. This approach adds a touch of warmth and personality to your celebration, making it truly unforgettable.
Don’t Forget The Festival Wedding Cake
Elevate the celebration aspect of your special day by incorporating elements that reflect your wedding theme into your wedding cake. One way to do this is by adding whimsical fun toppers, opting for bold and vibrant color schemes, or even recreating a festival scene on the cake itself. You could also focus on showcasing unique flavors that match your overall aesthetic, making it an unforgettable experience for your guests. Furthermore, consider creating a show-stopping cake table that’s almost as impressive as the main event itself. A beautifully captured image of such an endeavor can be seen in Emma B Photography’s stunning work at Spring Cottage Rivington Wedding.
Point Guests In The Right Direction
Imagine your festival wedding as a vibrant and dynamic event that seamlessly flows from one activity to another. To achieve this, consider using signposts to expertly guide your guests through the various areas and stages of the celebration. Alternatively, design a ‘line-up’ of events, showcasing the highlights of the festivities in a way that builds anticipation and excitement. This clever approach will ensure that every guest has an unforgetable experience, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the music, food, and merriment on offer.
Use Vinyl Records For Centrepieces
Elevate your wedding decor by harmoniously blending your passion for music with stunning record-inspired elements. A beautiful and unique way to incorporate your personal taste into the big day, record-themed decorations can add a touch of elegance and whimsy to your celebration.
Festival Wedding Entertainment Inspiration
Hire Food Trucks & Trailer Bars
As you close your eyes, envision the vibrant atmosphere of your favorite festival. The scent of sizzling street food wafts through the air, mingling with the hum of laughter and music. An Airstream bar or food truck stands out amidst the lively scene, its colorful decorations and tantalizing aromas drawing you in. Take a moment to relive the excitement of that memorable day, where the fusion of flavors and fun came together in perfect harmony.
It’s All About The Music
When it comes to crafting an unforgettable festival-inspired wedding, music is where it all begins. To set the tone and keep the energy high, consider curating a personalized playlist or bringing in live musicians to deliver a one-of-a-kind performance. For an even more spectacular experience, why not assemble a lineup of talented acts that will have your guests singing along until the very last note? With the right mix of genres and styles, you’ll create a truly unforgettable atmosphere that will leave everyone talking long after the final curtain call.
Dance Like Nobody’s Watching
As you prepare for your wedding celebration, don’t overlook the opportunity to make your dancefloor moment truly unforgettable. Consider incorporating sensory details that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. This could include elements like sparkling decorations, confetti bursts, billowing smoke, or even a dramatic fireworks display. The key is to create an atmosphere that’s both visually stunning and emotionally charged. To take it to the next level, choose a special first dance song that holds personal significance for you and your partner. This will not only add emotional depth to the moment but also provide a meaningful soundtrack for the memories you’ll cherish for years to come.
Make A Glitter Makeup Station
As the sun sets on your evening party, why not add a touch of magic to the atmosphere? One way to do this is by incorporating glitter makeup into your look. Not only will it catch the light and make you sparkle, but it’s also a great conversation starter! Imagine walking into the party looking like a radiant star, with a subtle shimmer that catches everyone’s eye. It’s the perfect way to add an extra layer of glamour to an already special occasion. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, why not take your glitter makeup inspiration from the beautiful vintage camper booths featured in this stunning photo by Rebecca Carpenter Photography?
Involve Animals & Pets
Before booking your event space, it’s essential to confirm whether pets are allowed. Many venues offer pet-friendly accommodations, so don’t hesitate to ask about bringing your furry friends along. A quick check with the venue can ensure a stress-free experience for all attendees, including your four-legged companions.
Get Stuck In No Matter The Weather
Festivals and celebrations like weddings are unique opportunities to revel in the unpredictability of nature. The unpredictable weather, be it mud, wind, or rain, can actually enhance the experience, making it more memorable and authentic. Instead of fighting against the elements, why not embrace them and make the most of what Mother Nature has to offer? Capture the moment with a muddy portrait, dance in the rain, or simply enjoy the fresh air and atmosphere. After all, life is full of unexpected twists and turns, so let’s celebrate the beauty in the imperfections.
Set Up Glamping For Guests
Transform your camping experience into a memorable gathering by setting up a unique bell tent village. Allow the festivities to carry on well into the night, and then start the next day with a satisfying breakfast. This is an ideal way to reconnect with loved ones and cherish the moment.
Hire Funfair Rides
Imagine the thrill and excitement of a funfair, minus the long queues and screaming children. It’s entirely possible to recreate the magic of a fairground at your wedding, turning it into an unforgettable experience for your guests. With a little creativity and some clever planning, you can bring the whimsy and wonder of a classic carnival to your special day.
Create A Magical Evening Atmosphere
As the sun dips below the horizon, the ambiance of a wedding celebration is elevated by the warm glow of bonfires, fireworks, firepits, and sparklers. These enchanting elements not only create unforgettable memories but also provide a stunning backdrop for capturing breathtaking photos.
Book A Headliner Act
Take your party to the next level by booking an unforgettable entertainment act. Why settle for ordinary when you can hire a showstopping performer? Consider going beyond traditional music acts and opt for something truly unique, like a robot flame thrower! Or, why not try one of these other creative options:Dancers who bring high-energy moves to your eventCircus acts that will leave your guests in awePhoto booths where friends can capture memoriesArtists who create stunning live artFortune tellers who add an air of mysteryMagicians who will amaze and delightWith so many possibilities, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your party. Whether you’re planning a wedding, corporate event, or just want to make your gathering truly unforgettable, there’s something on this list that’s sure to bring the excitement.
Festival Wedding FAQ
What Is A Festival Wedding?
Incorporating the vibrant energy of music festivals into your special day, a festival-themed wedding is all about embracing the unconventional and having a blast with friends and family. Envision a lively atmosphere complete with live performances, picturesque outdoor settings, tantalizing food options from mobile eateries, and a carefree ambiance that reflects the bohemian spirit.