Farm Chic Wedding Etiquette: A Guide

Photo courtesy of Jessie Ebright Photography

Planning a farm chic wedding at a venue like The Seven Oaks Ranch combines the beauty of rustic charm with the elegance of a well-organized celebration. While the atmosphere is relaxed, it’s important to maintain certain etiquettes to ensure everything runs smoothly and everyone enjoys the day. Here’s a comprehensive guide to farm chic wedding etiquette.

Invitations and Save-the-Dates

Save-the-Dates

• Timing: Send out save-the-dates six to eight months in advance, especially if you’re inviting guests from out of town.

• Information: Include the date, location, and a note that formal invitations will follow.

Invitations

• Timing: Send invitations eight to ten weeks before the wedding.

• Style: Choose invitations that reflect your farm chic theme. Think about incorporating elements like kraft paper, floral designs, or rustic fonts.

• RSVP: Request RSVPs at least three weeks before the wedding to finalize headcounts and seating arrangements.

Dress Code

Photos courtesy of Jessie Ebright Photography

For the Couple

• Bride: Consider a dress that’s both elegant and appropriate for an outdoor setting. Think lace, lightweight fabrics, and even shorter lengths if desired. Don’t forget comfortable footwear for navigating the terrain.

• Groom: A suit or dress shirt with suspenders and a vest can complement the rustic theme. Lighter colors like beige, light grey, or even a soft blue can work well.

For the Guests

• Guidance: Include dress code suggestions in your invitations. For a farm chic wedding, suggest “smart casual” or “country chic” to help guests choose appropriate attire.

• Footwear: Remind guests that the wedding will be outdoors and suggest they wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on grass or uneven ground.

Ceremony Etiquette

Timing

• Punctuality: Ensure the ceremony starts on time. This respects your guests’ schedules and helps keep the day’s events running smoothly.

• Seating: Provide clear instructions for seating. You might consider a sign like “Pick a seat, not a side, we’re all family once the knot is tied.”

Traditions

• Personal Touches: Farm chic weddings often blend tradition with personal flair. Feel free to incorporate unique elements, such as a unity tree planting or a rustic ring box.

• Officiant: Choose an officiant who understands your vision and can incorporate personalized elements into the ceremony.

• Unplugged Ceremony: If you are requesting an unplugged ceremony, ensure to provide signs at the ceremony location requesting that your guests do not take photos or videos of the ceremony. Assure them that you will share the professionally documented ceremony once you are ready to.

Reception Etiquette

Photos courtesy of Jessie Ebright Photography and Taylor Amos Photography

Seating

• Arrangement: Use rustic elements like wooden signs or chalkboards for seating arrangements. Consider long, communal tables for a cozy, family-style atmosphere.

• Special Seating: Ensure there’s comfortable and accessible seating for elderly guests.

Food and Drink

• Menu: A farm-to-table menu with fresh, local ingredients is ideal. Think about including comfort foods, BBQ, or a seasonal buffet.

• Service: Consider family-style serving for a more relaxed and communal dining experience.

• Dietary Needs: Accommodate dietary restrictions and clearly label dishes for guests.

Toasts and Speeches

• Order: Plan the order of toasts and communicate this to those who will be speaking. Traditionally, toasts are given by the best man, maid of honor, and parents, followed by the couple.

• Length: Encourage speakers to keep their toasts short and sweet, ideally under five minutes each.

Décor and Atmosphere

Photo courtesy of Taylor Amos Photography

Decorations

• Natural Elements: Utilize the natural beauty of the venue with minimalistic and rustic decorations. Think wooden signs, mason jar centerpieces, and wildflower bouquets.

• Lighting: Use string lights, lanterns, and candles to create a warm, inviting atmosphere as the sun sets.

Music

• Playlist: Create a playlist that matches the relaxed yet festive vibe of your farm chic wedding. Include a mix of folk, country, and acoustic tunes.

• Volume: Ensure the music volume allows for conversation during dinner and socializing, and ramp it up for dancing later in the evening.

Guest Comfort

Weather Preparedness

• Sun Protection: Provide items like parasols, sunglasses, or a basket of sunscreen for daytime weddings.

• Warmth: For cooler evenings, consider having blankets or shawls available for guests.

• Rain Plan: Always have a backup plan in case of rain, such as a tent or an indoor space at the venue.

Facilities

• Restrooms: Ensure there are adequate restroom facilities that are clean and easily accessible.

• Transportation: If parking is far from the venue, arrange for transportation like golf carts or shuttles for guests.

Post-Wedding Etiquette

Thank You Notes

• Timing: Send thank you notes within three months of the wedding.

• Personalization: Mention the specific gift received and how you plan to use it. Express gratitude for their attendance and support.

Returning Rentals

• Responsibility: Assign someone the task of ensuring all rented items are returned on time and in good condition to avoid extra charges.

Conclusion

Planning a farm chic wedding at The Seven Oaks Ranch involves balancing rustic charm with the elegance of a traditional wedding. By following these etiquette guidelines, you’ll ensure that your special day is beautifully orchestrated, enjoyable for your guests, and reflective of your personal style. Embrace the natural beauty of your surroundings, pay attention to the details, and most importantly, enjoy every moment of your wedding day!