What Does a Rustic Style Wedding Look Like in France?

Rustic weddings have burst onto the wedding scene, and they have come a long way since the early days of burlap sacks and outdoor ceremonies. Today, the term "rustic wedding" covers a much broader field of celebrations, and many Brits coming to France for a "French" wedding use this popular theme.

So, what exactly are we talking about when we mention a French rustic wedding, and what can you expect to see?

What Are the Characteristics of a French Rustic Wedding?

The rustic wedding style simply refers to a set of features that give the ceremony and/or celebration a slightly rougher and more nature-oriented look. Think of dried flower petals, wildflowers, and vintage furniture - combined with a bit of raw and ready French character from a rundown French chateau to make the wedding truly memorable.

It could be said that it's a stripped-down celebration, perfect for couples who want something slightly different from the usual!

Here are some rustic wedding details you can expect to see if you are getting married in France using this wedding theme. 

Burlap Table Settings and Thank You Gifts

Weddings are all about details. One element of a French rustic wedding to consider is burlap (or jute if you prefer). Table settings are an excellent addition that can be placed on top of your white tablecloth or simply laid directly on natural wood tables among your other table decorations to add a more relaxed vibe. Burlap sacks also tend to be very present in rustic celebrations offering wedding favors, thus creating a more relaxed atmosphere.

Vintage Furniture

Rustic weddings are often complemented by French-style vintage tables and chairs to give them a more rustic vibe, as well as a range of other characteristic pieces. These pieces are readily available from wedding suppliers and event providers who are continually sourcing vintage pieces to meet the growing demand for rustic celebrations.

Festoon Lights and Fairy Lights

Festoon lights and fairy lights are another increasingly common feature of rustic weddings. They are often strung together to form a canopy over a specific section of the wedding venue. They can be a very effective way of adding warmth to an outdoor space the night before, the day of, or even throughout your wedding celebrations. They are an excellent complement to outdoor dining areas, in particular.

Natural and Floral Decorations

Nature is always a significant feature of rustic weddings. Whether you are using leaves and branches for your forest wedding decoration or intertwining fresh produce in the decor of your French farmhouse wedding, natural elements enhance and elevate your rustic theme. You can also use dried flowers, wildflowers, or berries, which will give the room a wonderful aroma!

French Rustic Wedding Dress Code

French rustic weddings are also distinguished by their dress code, with the bride and groom often wearing simple and understated clothing rather than fancy and chic outfits. Since you are in France, you can also incorporate an element of local culture into your rustic dress code, such as a Breton striped top or a Chanel-style headdress made of local organic flowers.

Outdoor or Unusual Wedding Venues

Rustic wedding ceremonies (and celebrations) most often take place outdoors. Or at least in places heavily exposed to nature. Whether it's farmers' barns, dilapidated castles, vineyards, or even mountain tops, being closer to nature is an important principle of the rustic wedding style.

Consult Your Event Provider to Discuss Ways to Make Your French Wedding Ceremony Perfect.

The list above is just a glimpse of the dozens of elements you can incorporate into your special day. Whether you opt for clean pastel colors and wood decor or want to incorporate elements such as rusty vintage bicycles and dried flower table arrangements, it's always good to talk with your wedding service provider to see how they can help implement your vision of a rustic wedding.