What Makes a Forest Wedding So Ridiculously Special?
Here’s the thing about forest weddings: they’re not trying too hard. The forest does half the decorating for you. All those natural textures, the greenery, the way sunlight filters through the leaves—it’s already gorgeous. Your job is just to enhance what’s already there and add some intentional touches that make people go “Wow, how did they pull this off?”
A forest wedding thrives on:
- Lush greenery as your main character (ferns, eucalyptus, ivy, moss—all the good stuff)
- Rustic wood elements that feel like they belong in the forest (because they do)
- Twinkling lights and candles that make everything feel magical, especially as the sun goes down
- Organic textures like stone, branches, glass, and soft fabrics mixed together
- That intimate, whimsical vibe that makes you feel like you’re in an enchanted forest storybook
The Real Talk: Is a Forest Wedding Actually Doable for You?
Before you get too attached to the idea, let’s be honest about what this actually involves.
Time: You’re looking at 4–8 hours of setup and styling, depending on how fancy you’re going and how many people are showing up.
Budget: Here’s the good news—forest weddings can work whether you’re spending $1,000 or $50,000.
- Budget-friendly: Forage for greenery, grab free branches, use mason jars you already own, DIY everything. Totally doable.
- Mid-range: Rent some tables and chairs, buy flowers from a wholesaler, hire someone to install your arch and lights. Still reasonable.
- Luxury: Professional florist, custom lighting design, high-end rentals, professional coordination. This gets expensive, but wow is it worth it.
Space: You need a forest clearing, grove, or wooded area that’s big enough for your crowd. This works for intimate 20-person gatherings or bigger 150-guest celebrations—just make sure the forest can handle it.
Your DIY comfort level: Can you be a beginner who grabs some branches and calls it a day, or are you the type who wants to build something custom? Both work.
Best seasons: Spring through fall is your sweet spot for mild weather and looking good. Winter forest weddings are stunning if you’re into that cozy, magical snow vibe with evergreens.
Your Statement Ceremony Arbor or Arch
This is your hero piece, and I mean that seriously. Your guests’ eyes are gonna go right to where you’re standing, so make it count.
Seating That Actually Belongs in a Forest
Here’s where a lot of weddings miss the mark: they plop down regular white chairs and call it boho. Don’t do that.
Tables That Tell the Forest Story
Tables are basically your blank canvas for all the magic.
Lighting That Transforms Everything
Here’s the honest truth: good lighting is the difference between “nice” and magical.
The Color Story: How to Make It Look Cohesive
Here’s where a lot of DIY weddings fall apart: too many colors fighting for attention.
Seasonal Switches: Making It Fresh Year-Round
Each season brings its own magic to a forest wedding. Embrace the changes and reflect them in your decor.
Making It Personal: Touches That Tell Your Story
A forest wedding should feel like your forest wedding, not a copy of someone else’s Pinterest board.
