If you find yourself drawn to nature-inspired weddings but can’t decide between a rustic or boho theme, you’re not alone. These two styles often feature overlapping elements — like outdoor venues, natural textures, and relaxed vibes — but they each have distinct characteristics that make them uniquely beautiful.
In this blog post, we’ll break down the key differences between rustic weddings and boho weddings to help you determine which style aligns more with your personality, vision, and dream celebration.
Understanding the Rustic Wedding Style
A rustic wedding theme is timeless and rooted in simplicity, nature, and countryside charm. Often associated with barn venues and vintage accents, this style brings together organic textures and a warm, grounded aesthetic.
Think of it as an homage to rural elegance, where weathered wood, fairy lights, and mason jars set the scene.
Key Features of Rustic Weddings
1. Natural Materials & Textures
Rustic weddings emphasise raw, organic elements. You’ll often see wood, burlap, linen, and jute used throughout the décor, from table runners to ceremony arches. These textures create a cosy, inviting environment that feels both intimate and down-to-earth.
2. Earthy Colour Palettes
Warm browns, soft beiges, muted greens, and ivory tones define the rustic colour scheme.
These calming shades reflect the natural surroundings and add to the peaceful countryside atmosphere.
3. Ideal Rustic Venues
Rustic weddings typically take place in barns, vineyards, gardens, or farmhouses. These locations provide the perfect backdrop for this theme and allow for organic design elements to shine.
4. Vintage & DIY Touches
Old furniture, antique picture frames, lace tablecloths, and handmade signage are popular rustic wedding details. The charm lies in thoughtful, sometimes mismatched pieces that feel collected over time.
5. Romantic Lighting
Rustic weddings are known for their magical lighting. String lights, lanterns, and candlelit accents bring warmth and intimacy to evening receptions and create a soft, romantic glow.
Who Should Choose a Rustic Wedding?
If you love nature, appreciate simplicity, and want a cosy, romantic setting with a hint of nostalgia, a rustic wedding may be your perfect match.
This theme is ideal for couples who dream of a laid-back celebration in a picturesque countryside venue.
Exploring the Boho Wedding Style
A boho wedding, short for bohemian, is a free-spirited, artistic celebration full of vibrant colours, rich textures, and whimsical details.
Inspired by nature, travel, and creativity, this style embraces individuality and non-traditional elements, making it a popular choice for modern, unconventional couples.
Key Features of Boho Weddings
1. Eclectic Decor & Patterns
Boho weddings are all about self-expression. You’ll find a mix of tribal patterns, vintage rugs, macramé hangings, and handwoven textiles. Decor often includes a fusion of global influences, resulting in a relaxed yet visually rich atmosphere.
2. Nature-Inspired Details
Like rustic weddings, boho celebrations are often held outdoors. But instead of focusing on simplicity, boho decor leans toward elaborate setups featuring feathers, florals, crystals, and dreamcatchers. This theme invites creativity and layered styling.
3. Bold & Earthy Colour Palettes
Bohemian weddings embrace a broader range of colours. From terracotta and mustard to dusty rose and burnt orange, boho colour schemes are earthy but often include pops of vibrant hues, creating a dreamy and romantic setting.
4. Flowing Fashion & Accessories
Bridal fashion is another key differentiator. Boho brides often wear flowing dresses made from lace, chiffon, or crochet, with floral crowns or wide-brimmed hats instead of traditional veils. The overall aesthetic is relaxed, playful, and effortlessly elegant.
5. Artistic & Personalised Touches
Boho weddings thrive on individuality. You might see hand-painted signs, calligraphy menus, mismatched vintage furniture, and DIY elements throughout the ceremony and reception. These personal details add charm and meaning to the celebration.
Who Should Choose a Boho Wedding?
If you’re a creative soul who loves adventure, artistic expression, and mixing styles, a boho wedding is likely your ideal fit.
It’s perfect for couples who want a unique, laid-back, and unforgettable celebration full of texture, colour, and personality.
Rustic vs. Boho Weddings: What’s the Real Difference?
While rustic and boho weddings both celebrate natural beauty and a relaxed ambience, they diverge in tone, detail, and overall vibe.
| Feature | Rustic Wedding | Boho Wedding |
| Main Vibe | Cosy, grounded, countryside | Free-spirited, artistic, eclectic |
| Colours | Earthy neutrals, soft tones | Warm earth tones with bold accents |
| Textures | Wood, burlap, linen | Lace, fringe, woven fabrics |
| Venue Style | Barns, farms, outdoor gardens | Beaches, forests, meadows, tents |
| Decor Elements | Mason jars, fairy lights, vintage finds | Macramé, dreamcatchers, layered textiles |
| Bridal Style | Simple, traditional with vintage touches | Flowing, unconventional, nature-inspired |
Ultimately, rustic weddings feel more traditional and rooted in simplicity, while boho weddings allow for a more experimental, expressive approach to wedding design.
Can You Mix Rustic and Boho Wedding Styles?
Absolutely! If you love both styles, combining elements of rustic and boho can result in a stunning hybrid wedding. For instance:
- Use a rustic barn venue but style it with bohemian rugs and eclectic seating.
- Incorporate soft, rustic lighting like lanterns alongside boho floral arrangements with pampas grass and wildflowers.
- Choose a natural, wood-toned colour palette but add a pop of colour through bold boho textiles and accessories.
This blended approach offers the best of both worlds and allows you to craft a day that feels entirely your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have a rustic or boho wedding during any season?
Yes! While rustic weddings shine in the autumn, they can also be beautiful in spring and summer. Boho weddings, often characterised by vibrant colours, can be uplifting in any season, but consider incorporating seasonal elements to enhance the theme.
What types of food and drink pair well with rustic or boho weddings?
Rustic weddings may feature hearty, home-style meals, such as barbecue or comfort foods. Boho weddings can offer a more eclectic menu, including creative appetisers, tapas, and a mix of signature cocktails. Consider local, in-season ingredients to enhance your theme.
Need Help Capturing Your Perfect Wedding Day?
Big Day Productions offers professional wedding photography for rustic, boho, and hybrid celebrations across the UK and Europe.
Whether you’re tying the knot in a countryside barn or hosting a free-spirited celebration under the stars, we’ll ensure every moment is preserved in timeless, beautiful imagery.
Contact us today to learn more about our wedding photography services.
