Western Wedding Theme: Setting The Atmosphere

Western wedding themes are an enjoyable experience for the newly married couple and their wedding guests. Theme weddings are popular because they allow couples to have a wedding and ceremony that is original and creative. Theme weddings are very similar to traditional weddings. The bridal party consists of bridesmaids and groomsmen, the bride is escorted down the aisle, and wedding vows are recited. The only variation is that western theme wedding include decorations, menu, and a location that is characteristic of a western style. This wedding is perfect for couples who prefer a less formal ceremony.

Ideally, western theme weddings are held outdoors. However, an outdoor wedding may not be best during the hot summer months. Therefore, couples who prefer a western-style ceremony may schedule their nuptials for spring or early fall. After a date is determined, the next step is securing a location for the ceremony.

Some couples choose to have the ceremony and reception at one location. A large backyard or barns are perfect locations. Of course, in some cities barn rentals are not possible. Thus, couples may have to settle on a backyard or private park reception. Western theme weddings may be held indoors, however this requires extensive decorating to achieve a western style.

A western-style wedding dress is ideal for the bride. This sort of dress may consist of a white or denim flared ankle skirt worn with a white blouse. Bridesmaids may follow suit and wear similar attire. Boots complete the western ensemble. The groom and groomsmen could wear cowboy style tuxedos, or denim jeans and shirts for casual weddings. The couple should inform guests how to dress in the invitations. A unique ideal is encouraging all guests to wear cowboy attire such as denim, boots, or a bandana.

The perfect meal for a western-styled wedding is barbecue. The couple should consult and hire a catering company that specializes in barbecue meals. Menu items could include barbecue chicken, ribs, pork, and so forth. Potato salad, macaroni salad, and baked beans are great side items. Picnic tables and benches could serve as dining tables.

An advantage of having a western theme wedding is that paper products are appropriate. Thus, guests can eat and drink from paper plates and cups, and no one has to be bothered with washing the dishes. A dinner bell for alerting guest to meal time adds a nice touch. Decor for western-styled weddings include bales of hay, livestock, fruit arrangements, wash basins, wild greenery, and so forth. Wildflowers are perfect for bouquets and decorating tables. Instead of vases for flowers, the couple could fill tins, small paint cans, and baskets with floral designs.

Entertainment for a western theme wedding may include a band that plays banjos and guitars. Square dancing music and line dancing is also appropriate for the occasion. In addition, guests may enjoy short hay wagon rides. Wedding favors for a western-style wedding include boot mugs, sheriff badges, mini western candles, or bandanas. Barbecue sauce and salsa are also great ideas for wedding favors.

About The Author

Valencia Higuera writes from Virginia. The Old Dominion University graduate has been a freelance writer for two years. Publishing credits include non-fiction articles and poetry. She wishes to move into creative fiction.