Desert-themed weddings are so effortlessly chic—an elegant mix of natural elements and textures that give off a boho vibe. We spoke to several wedding planners and asked them to share with us their best tips on throwing an unforgettable fête under the stars
Offer your guests miniature cacti (or even succulents) as wedding favors—they are easy to take care of, budget-friendly, and fit your desert theme perfectly. Wrap the individual pots in natural abaca ribbon for a touch of rustic charm.
Sometimes less is more. Instead of an elaborate floral arch, opt for a teepee decorated with flower garlands and macramé pieces. Make the “altar” even cozier by placing a rug in front of it and lining it with candles.
"If you're trying to achieve a non-traditional ‘desert-chic’ bouquet, consider incorporating pops of color with blue thistle. You'll still be playing up the desert theme since it's a type of cactus, but it'll add some unexpected dimension and texture to the overall neutral bouquet,” says Jacqueline Hites of Blooming Hites.
Succulents have taken the wedding world by storm lately. The reason? They come in so many different shapes and sizes that you can incorporate them as decor elements in a wide range of vignettes and spaces. However, since many succulents grow in the desert, they work especially well for your themed celebration.
“Desert settings tend to be dramatic due to the sultry hues of the environment, and desert-themed tablescapes are no different,” says Misty Damico of Luxe Event Productions. “Warm tonal palettes paired with elements of the terroir are easy on the eye and welcoming for the guests.”
You don’t have to be in a desert to throw a desert-theme wedding. You can recreate the distinct boho ambiance indoors by mixing natural elements such as wood, leather, and wildflowers with copper cutlery and metal barware. Consider adding a lounge area with pillows and low chairs that will add to the casual vibe of your event.
“For this couple, it was clear that color and texture were key,” says Elizabeth Brandon of WINK! Weddings. “From handmade felt cactus place cards to vibrant custom napkins, each of these elements evokes the desert in super bloom!”
“For this couple, it was clear that color and texture were key,” says Elizabeth Brandon of WINK! Weddings. “From handmade felt cactus place cards to vibrant custom napkins, each of these elements evokes the desert in super bloom!”
Desert weddings are all about textures and natural hues. Don’t go overboard with the tabletop décor. Simple white linen, sand-filled copper dishes with desert plants, and candles are the epitome of rustic chic.
Why have just one cake when you can have multiple? Opt for a couple of small semi-naked dripped cakes decorated with greenery and succulents—it’s a budget-friendly take on the traditional overly embellished piece of confection that can cost thousands of dollars.
Wedding sparklers are always such a fun way to engage your guests at the end of the party. You’ll also be doing your photographer a favor—there’s nothing more romantic and beautiful than illuminating the night with tens or hundreds of sparklers all at once, evoking the feel of a desert sky full of stars.