Youve found the perfect barn to host your wedding.

But now you gotta set up for it!

Images byelopement photographerBrittany West Photography

1.

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Lighting-Hang some string lights on the barn rafters.

They will look like stars and provide lighting for your guests as night falls!

They provide light and look beautiful when hanging from trees or in doorways.

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They provide light and look beautiful when hanging from trees or in doorways.

Rent a few vintage pieces of furniture to add some character to the space.

A few well-placed benches, chairs, or tables can make all the difference!

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Catering- Set up a food truck!

This is a great way to save money on catering and offers lots of unique options for your guests.

What about the cake?

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If your heart is set on a full on four-tiered, fondant cake this tip isnt for you.

This minimal cake design saves on labor costs from the bakery and the savings gets passed on to you.

They can also be used to create floral centerpieces.

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Old wine or liquor barrels are great rustic items that can be used for a variety of purposes.

Horseshoes are also a traditional western barnwedding decorationand also are representative or good luck.

Wood slicesare also an inexpensive way tocreate signs for your wedding.

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The thicker slices can also be drilled into to create tea light candle holders.

Brides have also used thick wood slices as rusticcake stands.

Drape it over doorways, across walls, or from the rafters.

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Create curtains or drapes around doorways and windows.

This is an easy way to add some color and privacy.

Just verify that its long enough to cover the entire length to drape to the ground.

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String together some vintage bottles andmason jars filled with flowersor candles for a simple but elegant centerpiece idea.

you might also arrange old benches, chairs, or tables in this manner.

This will save you from trying to explain directions all night long while keeping things fun and relaxed!

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Set up a photobooth!

This is a fun way for your guests to capture memories of the day.

Create a photobooth backdrop using hay bales and colorful fabric scraps.

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Its an easy way to add and fun to your wedding photos.

All you need is a backdrop, some props, and a camera!

Decorate the barn doors!

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Hang signs, create a wreath, or use chalkboard paint to write messages for your guests.

Use hay bales as seating.

double-check the hay bales arent treated with harmful pesticides before allowing your guests to sit on them.

15.Hang vintage quilts or blankets on the walls.

They will help keep you warm in the evening and add some extra charm to the space.

Find a venue that is BYOB and set up a bar!

An open bar can be a big expense and on average will cost a couple $2,300.

But a well stocked bar at a wedding is a great way to keep your guests happy and hydrated.

Finding a venue that will allow you to bring your favorite spirits is key.

Inexpensive mason jars can be used for signature cocktails.

This adds color and makes a great conversation starter too!

Create a sign for the entrance to the barn!

Turn old barnwood into signsfor different areas of your event such as bar, bathrooms, guestbook table etc.

This adds personality while being practical too!

Utilize the surrounding area to create a rustic wedding.

Have your ceremony under an oldoak tree, under some willows or beside a lake!

If not, think about using galvanized metal trays or buckets as serving dishes!

Hunt for bargains at Goodwill, Craigslist, or flea markets.

Its an easy way to add personality to the space withoutspending too much money.

Utilize props and furniture you already own or can rent cheaply!

Collectvintage itemslike old suitcases, crates, milk jugs etc.

and use them as centerpieces or placeholders on tables.

Avoid purchasing these items from antique shops since the markup is usually quite considerable.

Try searching for these items at estate or garage sales.

Not only will this save you money but itll also give your wedding an extra unique touch!

Use bunting banner to decorate doorways or reception dance areas!

Hang antique mirrors on the walls to add depth and lighten up a space.

Mirrorsalso create deceitful tricks, making an area appear bigger than it is!

If the venue doesnt have a fireplace consider renting an outdoorfire pit.

Not only do they look pretty but they also help to the mood for an intimate gathering.

Utilize square hay bales for seating at tables.

Not only is it comfortable but they also add to the rustic vibe of an outdoor wedding.

Of course burlap is a rustic and cheap way to add some texture to your decor.

you could use it as table runners, chair sashes, or even drapery!

Add twine to the burlap decor to match.

Accent the burlap with white lace to add femininity to your barn wedding decor.

Burlap, twine and lace can all be bought at craft stores and are usually cheap.

Wagon wheels look beautiful hung up as decor!

They are a classic decoration that is versatile enough to use inside or outside.

Rustic wagon wheels can be used as chandeliers by decorating them with greenery and adding lights to them.

you could even paint them different colors for added vibrancy and pizazz!

Babys breath is an inexpensive and simplistic way to add some color and femininity to your wedding decor.

Not only are they beautiful but theyre also affordable and can be picked up fromlocal farmers marketsor roadside stands.

Collect branches from your local forest and use them to create a rustic archway.

It also works really well when hung up in doorways or windows or in mason jars!

Not only does this give your space character reflects on the family history of the couple.

You could also place one portrait style picture behind each guest seating area if budget allows.

Try usingold booksas table cards for a more formal look.

Just verify that these pieces are sturdy because moving them around during wedding festivities could cause damage.

Typically a barn wedding venue should be less expensive than a hotel wedding venue within your area.

January through March are typically wedding venues slow season.

In many locations this is the perfect time to request a discount from the wedding venue.

Your wedding dress is another detail that has money saving aspects.

Thrifting a dress or finding a dress that is off-the-rack can help you stay within your budget.

Ebay and Poshmark are two great online resources to find a gently used wedding dress.

Also, consider wearing something simple like a lace shrug or bolero instead of investing in an expensive veil.

Borrowing a wedding dress from a friend or family member is another great way to cut costs.

Renting gowns are becoming more popular and theres no shame in wanting an amazing look without breaking the bank!

This could be in the form of cash or a check.

There are so many ways to add personality and charm to your wedding on a budget!

With a little creativity, you’re free to create beautiful spaces that your guests will love.

So get creative, have fun, and enjoy your barn wedding!