10 Ways to Nail the Cowboy Wedding Theme Trend
From cowboy boots to barn venues, discover how to plan or attend the perfect country themed wedding with our ultimate guide to the Western wedding trend
Move over minimalism - 2025 and beyond is all about bold wedding themes, and cowboy weddings are leading the charge.
Whether you’re inspired by the wild west, are Taylor Swift-obsessed, or just love the laid-back vibe of a country themed wedding, this rustic aesthetic is fast becoming a favourite for UK couples, with searches for ‘cowboy wedding’ up 39%!
But how do you plan a cowboy or Western themed wedding without it looking like fancy dress? And what should guests wear to a cowboy wedding? Here’s everything you need to know.
What is a cowboy wedding?
A cowboy wedding (or country and western wedding) blends traditional wedding elements with rustic Americana - think hay bales, horses, barn wedding venues, cowboy hats, and of course, wedding cowboy boots.
It’s less about clichés and more about celebrating outdoorsy, carefree fun with a touch of Southern charm.
Country and Western Wedding Theme Ideas
Love the cowboy wedding vibe? Here are some ways to bring it to life:
Venue & Decor
Choose a barn, farm, or outdoor setting. Western theme wedding decorations could include bales of hay, lanterns, horseshoes, wooden signage, and wagon wheels.
Mix wildflowers with pampas grass and rustic barrels for a boho-meets-cowboy vibe.
1. Marshwood Manor, Dorset
Look for a wedding venue with rustic, barn-style spaces. Marshwood Manor has a variety of celebration spaces that fit the brief, including the Haybarn and the Bower.
2. The Barn at Drovers, Herefordshire
Add even more of a country and western theme to your wedding by switching out traditional seating for hay bales, like this couple did at The Barn at Drovers. Be sure to cover them with rugs or blankets though - the straw can be a little spiky!
3. Stoke by Nayland Hotel, Golf & Spa, Essex
Opt for a wedding venue that has tipis on site like Stoke by Nayland Hotel, or allows them to be brought in, for that rustic, western feel.
4. Cowboy Boot Wedding Decor
When it comes to bringing your country and western themed wedding to life, get creative with your decor. Think wooden crates, barrels, milk urns and even cowboy boots - we love this set up at The Barn at Drovers.
Dress Code
Encourage guests to lean into the theme with a wedding dress code - include tips like "yes to boots!" or "cowboy hats welcome" on your invites.
Consider providing fun props like hats or bandanas for the photo booth.
Music & Entertainment
Hire a live country band or play a carefully curated country wedding songs playlist, or considering teaching your guests a line dance or hosting a mechanical bull competition.
5. Brandon's Barn Dance, London
Brandon's Barn Dance is a business that teaches line dancing, two stepping and hosts country sing-alongs - why not consider bringing this kind of vibe into your wedding reception, or check it out as a pre-wedding celebration idea!
6. Horsebox Photobooth
What could be more perfect for a cowboy themed wedding than a horsebox photo booth, like this one pictured at The Barn at Drovers? We love the 'giddy up and grin' messaging.
7. Songs by the Firepit
What could give Southern America vibes more than a sing-song by the firepit? Choose a venue with a firepit, like Marshwood Manor, to make this a reality.
Food & Drink
Serve BBQ, cornbread, and mini pies, and consider a whiskey or bourbon bar, or signature wedding cocktails served in mason jars.
8. Gisburne Park Estate, Lancashire
Be inspired by this set up at Gisburne Park Estate, with mason jars of Pimms ready for guests to help themselves to!
9. Shoot the Bull, Yorkshire
Consider a mobile catering provider to come in and serve western style wedding food - Shoot the Bull is the perfect match for a farm or barn venue.
Stationery
Set the tone early with themed wedding stationery. Think boot-shaped place cards, and western themed wedding invites.
10. Purely Bespoke Stationery
Get your guests in the mood for what's to come with themed wedding stationery - this stag themed stationery from Purely Bespoke Design is ideal for a cowboy themed wedding.
Cowboy Wedding Outfits for the Couple
If you're planning your own Western theme wedding, here are some ideas for what you (and your partner) could wear:
- A lace or tulle country themed wedding dress pairs beautifully with wedding cowboy boots.
- Finish the look with a boho hat or flower crown.
- A cowboy wedding suit with a Western-style waistcoat, bolo tie, and boots will give a refined rustic look.
- A cowboy hat is optional, but makes for great photos!
What to Wear to a Cowboy Wedding (as a Guest)
If you've been invited to a country themed wedding, you're probably wondering what on earth to wear. The key is to strike a balance between Western-inspired and wedding-appropriate. Here are a few ideas:
- A flowy country themed wedding dress (think florals or lace) with cowboy boots at a wedding is a timeless combo.
- A wedding dress to wear with cowboy boots should be midi or above-the-ankle so the boots can shine.
- Add a denim jacket or suede fringed shawl for a finishing touch.
- A smart cowboy wedding suit includes tailored trousers, a Western shirt, and a bolo tie.
- Leather boots are a must - skip trainers or overly formal shoes.
Wondering "Can I wear cowboy boots to a wedding?" - absolutely, if it’s part of the theme! And what about “Can you wear a cowboy hat to a wedding?” Again, yes - especially if the couple encourages it! For outdoor events, a straw cowboy hat is ideal.
What to Wear to a Western Themed Wedding if You’re Not Sure of the Dress Code
Still unsure? Here’s a quick guide:
- Go neutral - denim, boots, and natural fabrics will always work.
- Avoid full fancy dress unless requested (e.g., spurred chaps or toy pistols).
- If in doubt, ask the couple or opt for rustic-chic with subtle Western touches.
Can you wear a cowboy hat to a wedding?
Yes - but it depends on the dress code. At a cowboy themed wedding, cowboy hats (including straw cowboy hats) are often encouraged, especially for outdoor ceremonies.
That said, always follow the couple’s guidance. If the invite doesn’t mention hats, check their wedding website or ask directly.
Tips for a Country Themed Wedding Party
- Set up outdoor wedding games like horseshoes or cornhole.
- Give guests themed favours like mini bottles of bourbon or bandanas.
- Don’t forget the transport - a horse-drawn carriage or vintage truck makes for a show-stopping arrival or send-off.
Whether it’s the nostalgia of country music, the down-to-earth vibe, or just a love for boots and barn dances, cowboy weddings are a trend that’s here to stay.
With plenty of room for personalisation and fun, it’s no wonder so many couples are going country for their big day. Inspired? Check out our edit of the best rustic wedding ideas.
