One of the most popular wedding themes is the western style party. The basic ingredients to throwing a wedding western style include having the right western invitations, a great selection of western wedding dresses and a caterer that knows how to use a barbeque pit to their advantage.
Finding the right invitation from the vast selection of western invitations available in the market can be difficult. A great way to help you whittle down the number is to have friends and family members vote on your top five invitations. Ultimately it is up to you which invitation to select. If you don't like the selection of cute cards with cowboy hats and boots you may opt to make your own invitations. Many craft stores have all of the papers, cards, envelopes and embellishments that you would need to make your own.
The right wedding dress is also an important part of your wedding, western style. A popular dress style is the cowgirl dress with plenty of fringe along the bottom hem and along the edge of the sleeve cuff a la Dale Evans. Another variation is the calico dress. Although this dress isn't a traditional white dress it may fit the bill with less traditional brides. A white denim dress in an above the knee or calf length is another great option for the modern bride. Pair any of these western wedding dresses with matching leather boots and you are outfitted for your big day.
The reception decorations are key for throwing a wedding western style. A great idea for the western wedding reception is the use of an archway. A western style archway can be made of wood and decorated with mini chili pepper lights and yards of denim or gingham material. Add a few plants to your archway to complete the look. Favorite flowers for use at a western wedding include geraniums, wild roses, sunflowers, straw flowers, carnations, babies breath, marigolds and mums.
Guest table decorations can be as elaborate or as simple as the bride desires. Tablecloths made of gingham material, denim or linen will complement your wedding, western style. The plates and cutlery used can be rented from a local party retail outlet. Popular styles are simple heavy white plates and plain stainless steel cutlery. Plates can sometimes be found that have a western style motif on the rim.
Simple table centerpiece decorations can be a tin bucket full of flowers and small decorative paper cowboy hats or boots filled with candies at the top of each guest's plate. A variation for the centerpiece is to use a splatter ware coffee pot in your favorite color filled with flowers for an authentic western look.
The food served at your western themed wedding should be authentic American cowboy fare. Ideas for the food include steaks, barbequed ribs, potato salad, baked beans and plenty of great baked goods. Substitute strawberry shortcake or sweet potato pie for the traditional white multi-tiered wedding cake.
Finish your themed wedding western style as well. If you live in a rural area, rent a bar and have a square dance following the reception. Another idea is to have a hayride to a bonfire where guests can relax, talk and make s'mores. No matter which ideas you use for your wedding western it is sure to be remembered by your guests for years to come.