Use the background that is already there

One of the best things about having a rustic wedding in New England is the beautiful scenery. It's always a good idea to use those beautiful natural landscapes that set the stage on their own. Instead of trying to stand out think about how you can fit in with this beauty. Imagine big wooden arches with thin fabrics on them that let you see the view around them. Adding soft floral patterns based on wildflowers from New England can make this better without taking away from it.

You might want to use plants that grow in your area in your arrangements. For example you could use ferns and moss to give your table runners or living centerpieces a natural look. The main goal is to make the place look better. This means that your decorating plan should include ways to use the wooden beams and stone fireplace in an old barn or the way waves come and go on a coastal property.

The view of the ocean the barn walls or the hill you're on are all beautiful. Instead of trying to change or hide these use them as a canvas and make them better. And really is there anything more New England than how beautiful nature is when it's at its most natural?

Use different textures and layers

Rustic elegance is all about the textures. It's all about putting together different materials that tell a story that fits together. Look for wooden things but don't forget that it's not just about making everything look like old barn wood (though that's nice too). Put things like raw edged linen on the table or even on the seats. It makes the wood feel softer which helps smooth out the rough spots.

To show off the fine details of traditional New England craftsmanship add some lace or macramé. Instead of yelling for attention each piece will softly let you and your guests know it's there. Look for a happy medium. A lace runner that flows over a wooden table and stoneware plates that hold it in place is always a nice touch.

Textures also need light to work. When you can use candles instead of bright lights. Lanterns especially ones that are different heights give the space more depth and warmth. You can wrap string lights or fairy lights around beams to make things more fun without losing the rustic feel. When you use both hanging bulbs and grounded candles in layers you get a cozy in the barn feel that never feels too small or cluttered. It's all about finding times when hearts can be full and eyes can rest.

Personal touches with things you can make yourself

You don't need to know a lot about DIY to add your own personal touches to your wedding decorations. A rustic New England wedding feels special and personal with small heartfelt details. You could use reclaimed wood to make signs that say "Welcome" or give directions around the venue. You can make it as detailed or as simple as you want and it's easy to understand.

What if you made simple gifts that were based on the area? Small jars of local honey or homemade jams go well with the rustic theme and let guests taste New England later. The point isn't to give yourself too much work to do it's to add parts of yourself to the celebration.

You could also ask your guests to help out. Tell them to write notes or leave Polaroids in a guestbook made of things they find in nature. They could write their notes on wooden cutouts that looked like hearts or leaves which would be a nice way to remember them. This doesn't just make things look nice it makes a tapestry of memories that will last.

The old and the new come together

You don't have to give up all things modern just because you're having a rustic wedding. It's more about how to combine old and new styles. Why not put simple dishware next to tables made from reclaimed wood? The rough natural parts stand out against the smooth modern parts which can make the whole theme look better.

Use technology but don't go overboard. Modern calligraphy can look great on rough paper which is a mix of the old and the new. And since we're talking about modern things you might want to think about using an online RSVP system. It fits in with the cleaner lines and functions that are common in modern things and it makes life easier.

Choose decorations that have a meaning. Think of a photo booth with old fashioned furniture and new filters or effects. People love to think about the past so add heirloom items from family histories and then mix them with modern design to tell a story.

Make a plan for the food

Food that goes with a rustic wedding is important. There is a lot of fresh local and tasty food in New England making it a food lover's paradise. You might want to hire a caterer who gets their food from local farms. It goes with the rustic theme and lets you show off the area's flavors. Add local cheeses breads fresh berries and other foods to your menu to please your guests.

To set your tables use serving dishes that are different heights like wooden crates or slate platters. This will make the food taste and look better. Being rustic doesn't mean being boring.

The drinks should also go with the rustic theme. What do you think of an old fashioned with maple bourbon? Or a Pinot Grigio with cranberries which is also something that goes well with the area. People like a well planned bar and a warm spiked cider will make people happy on a cold day in New England.

A rustic New England wedding is all about making guests feel like they are in a world that is both naturally beautiful and welcomingly real. You're not just making a day you're making an experience that's as rich and layered as the landscapes of New England by adding textures personal touches and local flavors.