You ask, “Who is the Natural Bride?”
Is she the Rustic Bride? The Bohemian? Country Chic? Glamorous? The truth is, we think natural can bend in many directions. There are no rules when it comes to incorporating natural elements in your wedding decor, because natural elements fit in naturally, with everything. Makes sense, right? It doesn’t have to be contrived or convinced. It doesn’t even have to fit into a three-color palette. It is beautiful no matter what is paired with. So, in order to convince you that there are no rules to being a natural bride, we give you… well… rules.
1. Natural does not have to be Rustic. We’ve all seen it- hay bales and boots. Cotton, fried chicken and lace. It’s a GORGEOUS (and delicious) combination for an outdoor wedding, especially in the South. As I’m sure you’ve also noticed, the word “rustic” is strongly associated with outdoor weddings and barn/farm weddings, (like us). However, it is not the only look for an outdoor/barn/farm wedding. In fact, you can have a beautiful, natural outdoor wedding with large, airy bouquets of bright wildflowers and local food! You can skip the wooden signs and mason jars (if you choose) and cater to cleaner lines and taller centerpieces. You can let your hair down and still be the most beautiful, natural bride without be labeled “rustic.” Natural goes a long way– and most of the time, there is no need for x-large picture frames above the cake table or 1 million stems of baby’s breath. Natural can be one or two statement arrangements filled with ferns and dahlias, even twigs. It can be a simple ceremony with an organic runner instead of 100 stumps lining the benches. Simply put, it’s your prerogative to be rustic or natural, or both. We’re just here to tell you that the looks can be completely separated, and completely beautiful- either way!
2. Natural can be Glamorous. Typically, one envisions the glamorous bride as ballroom and chandeliers, Cinderella gowns and tiaras, champagne and pearls. But what about a glamorous, silky gown among a meadow of perennials with a glass of champagne and an al fresco reception? Cafe lighting and lemon garland lining the tables? Yes. We oblige. How natural, and so very glamorous?!
Moral of the story: Don’t be afraid to bend the rules, brides. This is YOUR day, and we love hearing your creative ideas. We enjoy celebrating what makes you unique, and most of all…what feels natural to you!
Happy Wedding Planning!
– Sweet Meadow
Photo and Article: Anna Howard