For most couples, their vision for their wedding is equal parts fun, personal and meaningful. Folk-style weddings are a fantastic way to achieve this, offering a unique and charming blend of rustic, natural elements with heartfelt music in an intimate setting. This guide will help you plan a folk-themed wedding, covering everything from venues and decor to dresses and suits, and finally, hand-picked recommendations for the best folk wedding songs.
Folk Wedding Venues
A folk-style wedding lends itself to a feeling of familiarity, so the best venues are inviting, homely spaces with earthy touches and beautiful natural surroundings where people can let loose:
- Barns and Farmhouses: These venues are perfect for a folk wedding because they exude warmth and character, as well as being a fantastic space for music and dancing.
- Outdoor Gardens and Parks: An outdoor garden or park setting can offer a verdant backdrop with picturesque open spaces. It’s ideal for a stretch tent or temporary structure to add to the folk theme.
- Woodland Settings: Forests, meadows or wooded areas offer a whimsical and enchanted atmosphere which can be accentuated by simple but elegant decorations such as lanterns and fairy lights.
Folk Wedding Decor
Decorating for a folk-style wedding involves using natural, artisanal and vintage elements to create a warm and welcoming ambience.
- Natural Elements: Incorporate wood, burlap, and wildflowers into your decor. Use wooden signs, tables, and chairs, and decorate with mason jars filled with wildflowers. Consider a wooden arch adorned with greenery and flowers for the ceremony backdrop.
- Vintage Accents: Add a touch of nostalgia with items such as lace tablecloths and antique frames, or mismatched vintage china to inject a little bit of eccentricity – think a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party in the woods!
- Handmade Details: Personal touches like homemade signs, hand-lettered invitations, and DIY favours can make your wedding feel more intimate and unique. You can even incorporate family heirlooms or handmade crafts into your decor so that your decor truly reflects who you are.
Folk Wedding Dresses and Suits
The attire for a folk-style wedding should reflect the relaxed, down-to-earth yet expressive theme that you’re going for.
- Wedding Dresses: Look for dresses with lace details, flowing fabrics, and simple silhouettes. Bohemian-style dresses with intricate embroidery or floral appliqués are perfect for a folk wedding. Complete the look with a simple veil or a flower crown for a festival-style take on your folk wedding dress.
- Suits: For the groom, consider a more relaxed suit with a vest or suspenders. Earthy tones like brown, beige, or grey can complement the natural theme. A linen suit or a tweed jacket can also add texture and character – especially if you jazz things up with a floral buttonhole or a paisley cravat.
- Accessories: Incorporate natural elements into your accessories. Brides and bridesmaids can wear floral accents or vintage jewellery, while grooms and groomsmen can opt for wooden cufflinks or a boutonniere made from wildflowers.
Choosing The Perfect Folk Wedding Music
A folk-style wedding calls for heartfelt, celebratory and soulful tunes. Experienced bands like All the Feels’ Folk Americana can bring the freewheeling atmosphere or sing-along foot-stomping your folk-style wedding needs. From old favourites to modern classics, they specialise in providing the perfect blend of traditional and modern folk music, so your guests have an unforgettable time.
Folk Wedding Songs To Walk Down The Aisle
- First Day of My Life – Bright Eyes: An emotional song that captures the essence of new beginnings and love.
- Ho Hey – The Lumineers: This popular folk song has a catchy melody and romantic lyrics, making it a great choice for a joyful entrance.
- Home – Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros: A song that celebrates love and togetherness, perfect for walking down the aisle.
- Songbird – Fleetwood Mac: A classic song with resonant lyrics and a gentle melody, ideal for a romantic and emotional entrance.
- Wildflowers – Tom Petty: A sweet and simple song that complements the natural and rustic theme of a folk wedding.
- Bloom – The Paper Kites: A soft and enchanting song that adds a touch of magic to the moment.
- Can’t Help Falling in Love – Ingrid Michaelson: A beautiful rendition of the classic song, perfect for a simple yet ethereal entrance.
- The Wedding Song – Angus & Julia Stone: A romantic and intimate song that beautifully captures the spirit of a wedding.
- Such Great Heights – Iron & Wine: A gentle and melodic song that adds a unique and personal touch to the ceremony.
- Marry Me – Train: A popular folk-pop song that perfectly fits the joyous occasion.
Folk Wedding Reception Songs
- You Are the Best Thing – Ray LaMontagne: An upbeat and soulful song that is perfect for celebrating love and happiness.
- I Will Wait – Mumford & Sons: This powerful uptempo song will get everyone on their feet and dancing.
- Wagon Wheel – Old Crow Medicine Show: A crowd-pleaser with a catchy chorus that will have everyone singing along.
- Take It Easy – The Eagles: A laid-back and fun song that fits perfectly with a relaxed and joyous reception.
- Better Together – Jack Johnson: A sweet and romantic song that captures the essence of togetherness and love.
- Little Talks – Of Monsters and Men: An energetic song that will keep the party atmosphere alive.
- Skinny Love – Bon Iver: A beautiful and emotional song that adds depth and emotion to the reception.
- Budapest – George Ezra: A fun and upbeat song that is perfect for dancing and celebration.
- Harvest Moon – Neil Young: A romantic and nostalgic song that adds a touch of classic folk to the evening.
At All the Feels, we’re passionate about creating the perfect soundtrack for your special day. We work with talented wedding bands and musicians from around the UK to bring your vision to life, so you and your loved ones will have memories to cherish for years to come. Get in touch with us today to find out more.