Venue Styling - Country Barns
The popularity of barn venues is still on the rise, and for very good reasons: The stone work, high ceilings, exposed beams and private settings, often with beautiful countryside views, are simply perfect for fantastic wedding celebrations. They are also marvellous backdrops for styling further: the opportunity to create your own bespoke day should not be missed. For the most impact in any barn, I would suggest focusing on three key aspects: Lights, flowers and personal touches.
First Steps
In order to create a theme that has an immediate wow-factor, it’s important that it’s coherent. A few, well thought out key elements will create the best impression, compared to lots of little ‘bits’. It’s vital that these elements, essentially creating your theme, reflect you as a couple! Whether it is vintage or woodland, festival or luxe: Find what speaks to you, then pull it together by focussing on the three key aspects.
Flowers
High barn ceilings mean that tall centrepieces create the biggest impression. Professional wedding florists will be able to produce tall designs that don’t prohibit guest views of each other and the all-important top table, like these plinths supported by slim legs by Flowers by Kirsty. The emerging trend of hanging installations is not going anywhere, and works particularly well with barns, as the beams are superb anchors for lights and flowers. Foliage, large, textured bouquets and wooden accents are still key for 2019. Ferns, eucalyptus and ruscus are perfect for an organic, earthy look; while tropical cheeseplants, proteas and succulents add glamour.
Lights
Never underestimate the power of lights. The exposed stone in a barn marries perfectly with fairy lights, and creates a warm feel to often big and airy spaces. In the last two years, we’ve seen a distinct shift to festoon lights, but the bigger bulbs – often spaced further apart – means that you won’t get the same effect as the fairy lights. The festoons, however, work the very best outdoors. Don’t apologise if you want glamour - simply add crystal chandeliers. If the budget won’t stretch to large light installations, extrapolate with uplighters and microlights in Kilner jars.
Personal Touches
While cute wicker hearts, pallets and crates might look great in images, I suggest concentrating on the items that are often necessary, but sometimes overlooked. This includes the table plan, menus, place cards and signage. They help guests have a lovely time; and done in a unique way, they’ll reflect your style and add to your theme in the best possible way!
All images supplied by the following wonderful photographers:
White Stag Wedding Photography
Want more advice on how to make the most of your barn venue? Please don't hesitate to get in touch - we're here to help you get the most out of your venue!
Warmest regards,
Karin