Wedding Planning Guide for a Rustic Barn Venue in Maine - Keeping It Simple & Elegant

Nov 28

1. Build Your Vendor Team

Once you’ve selected a barn venue you love, it’s time to choose your vendors. A great team of vendors paired with a an experienced venue can make all the difference. Secure vendors as soon as possible.

Caterer
Florist
Bar Service
Photographer
DJ/Band
Officiant
Videographer
Hair & Make Up Artists
Bakery
Rentals
Transportation

2. Make Your Guest List

Know your venue’s guest capacity
Keep in mind…your guest count drives your costs—food, drinks, rentals, tables, chairs, linens, favors, etc. Know your per person cost
Have you spoken to them in the last 12–18 months?
If not, they may not need to be on the list—unless they’re close family you see less frequently
What size wedding are you looking for?
- Intimate (under 50) → prioritize closest family and friends
- Medium (50–120) → close circle + extended family + important friends
- Large (150+) → wide guest list, social friends, coworkers, plus-ones

3. What Vibe Are You Looking For?

Rustic barns naturally offer warmth, charm, and authenticity. Decide whether your vibe is:

Rustic elegance (soft lighting, neutral florals, simple décor)
Modern farmhouse (clean lines, greenery, candles)
Whimsical country (wildflowers, fairy lights, vintage touches)

Once the vibe is clear, every choice becomes easier.

4. Keep the Décor Minimal but Meaningful

A rustic barn already provides a stunning backdrop—wood beams, open space & touches of history. Lean into that.

less clutter = more atmosphere

Simple, rustic, & elegant décor ideas:

Loose greenery runners on long farm tables
Neutral florals (whites, creams, soft blush, eucalyptus)
Candles or LED pillars to create glow
Use Wooden boxes or barrels
String lights or bistro lighting to elevate the ambience
Soft Draping
Chalkboard Signs

5. Consider a Day of Coordinator

If your venue doesn’t provide a Day-of Coordinator, hiring one is highly recommended. Having a dedicated point person to greet vendors, handle last-minute details, and keep the timeline on track is invaluable—allowing you and your new spouse to relax and enjoy every moment.

6. Keep the Timeline Relaxed

Barn weddings feel best when the day flows naturally.

A simple elegant timeline:

4:00 – Ceremony
4:30 – Photos + Cocktail hour
5:30 – Dinner
6:00 – Toasts
6:30 – First dances
7:00 – Open dance floor
8:30 – Dessert
10:30 – Sendoff

7. Use Nature as Your Statement Piece

What makes a barn venue magical is the land around it.

Incorporate:

Sunset photos in fields
Trail walk-through photos
Fire pit for gathering
Outdoor games (cornhole, giant Jenga, ring toss)

These add personality without adding expense.

8. Add Personalized, Simple Touches

Some meaningful but effortless ideas:

A welcome sign with the date
A memory table for family photos
Simple favors like local honey, maple syrup, or wildflower seeds
A handwritten note at each seat
Give a welcome/thank you speech

These make guests feel connected—and they photograph beautifully.

9. Relax and Enjoy the Charm

A simple and elegant barn wedding works because it’s genuine. Guests feel comfortable, the setting is beautiful, and the day unfolds naturally. A wedding at a barn venue creates an atmosphere that’s romantic, warm & unforgettable!

Tammy Hilchey