photos by Artemis Photography and Ping Photography

If you’ve been dreaming of a woodland wedding like something in a storybook, we’re here to help you achieve the look! More and more couples are saying “I do” to getting married in the woods instead of traditional venues, but there are a few things you need to consider before getting hitched in the wilderness. From logistical needs that are unique to a forest setting to styling tips that enhance the natural beauty of your surroundings, here’s how to throw a totally enchanting woodland wedding.

Find the Perfect Ceremony Spot

Whether it’s against a big tree or in an opening in the woods, your ceremony spot should showcase the beauty of the surroundings while highlighting what’s most important — you two saying “I do!” Location scouting before the day-of can give you an idea of where you’d like to set up your ceremony, but keep in mind that a forest isn’t maintained, so a tree may fall or other natural conditions may change up what you had in mind. As with any ceremony location, don’t forget to consider where the sun will be shining!

photo by The Colagrossis; see more from this wedding here!

photo by Nakalan McKay; see more from this wedding here!

photo by India Earl, wedding design by ; see more from this wedding here!

Let Your Floral Design Get a Little Wild

Overgrown bouquets have been trending for a while now, but there’s no better place to carry one than a woodland wedding! Because a forest setting is naturally unkempt, a tight, round bouquet can look out of place and take away from the organic vibe. Keep your wedding look as effortless as the landscape with an asymmetrical shape, mismatched blooms, and dripping greenery.

photo by The Colagrossis, wedding dress by Hayley Paige; see more from this wedding here!

photo by Allen Tsai Photography, wedding design by Sweet Pea Events, floral design by Studio 3 Floral Design; see more from this wedding here!

photo by Joel Allegretto, floral design by Bloomsbury Blooms; see more from this wedding here!

Invite the Locals

No, we don’t really mean that you should send Save the Dates to neighboring deer and squirrel families! However, plastic critters couldn’t be a cuter addition to your woodland wedding decor. From cake toppers to escort cards, your favorite creatures are the perfect touch of whimsy!

photo by Artemis Photography and Ping Photography, cake by FlourGirl Patissier; see more from this wedding here!

photo by Jess Hunter, wedding design by Vira Danh Forevents; see more from this wedding here!

photo by Matt Lien, art by Small Adventure; see more from this wedding here!

photo by Cluney Photo; see more from this wedding here!

Decorate with Natural Elements

Styling your ceremony and reception with natural elements can help to create a consistent setting without detracting from the beauty of your surroundings. Tree stumps and wood rounds may not have been organically placed in the woods where you’re celebrating, but they certainly look like they belong when you’ve built a romantic display by pulling elements from your setting!

photo by Artemis Photography and Ping Photography; see more from this wedding here!

photo by Swak Photography, wedding design by Signature Events, cakes by Fatty Patty’s Cakes; see more from this wedding here!

Pitch a Tent

One of the obvious differences between being married in a traditional venue and a forest is the lack of accommodations. A tent is a great option for providing coverage over your reception, ensuring that animals, wind, and falling leaves aren’t interfering with your décor or guests.  Choose a tent with a clear roof to keep the outdoor affect, or string cafe lights across the ceiling for an enchanting look!

photo by Max & Sam Photography; see more from this wedding here!

photo by Andrew Franciosa Studio; see more from this wedding here!

Or Feast Under the Stars

To get the full effect of a wedding in the forest, skip the tent and have dinner among the trees! There’s nothing dreamier than an outdoor dinner party, so treat your guests to long tables, earthy accents, and hopefully a light breeze!

photo by Nhiya Kaye Photography, wedding design by Wildflower Weddings and Events, rentals by Diamond Rental; see more from this wedding here!

photo by Alison Yin Photography, wedding design by Merrily Wed; see more from this wedding here!

photo by Coley & Co Photography; see more from this wedding here!

Create Vignettes with Furniture Rentals

The wide open space of a forest can be a blessing and a curse when it comes to organizing your wedding. Vignettes give your guests a sense of direction, letting them know what areas are part of the celebration, and what’s just wilderness. Furniture can turn any corner of the woods into lounge seating, a dessert display, a photo booth, a drink station, a place to sign your guest book, or anything you can imagine!

photo by Lena Peterson Photography; see more from this wedding here!

photo by Cassie Loree Photography, wedding design by Blooming House Creative; see more from this wedding here!

photo by Nhiya Kaye Photography, wedding design by Wildflower Weddings and Events, rentals by Diamond Rental; see more from this wedding here!

Looking for something special to hang above your woodland wedding? Check out these 22 hanging reception décor ideas for more inspiration!