13 Whimsical Ideas for a Fairy-Tale Forest Wedding

"Natural details such as a beautiful wooden table paired with rustic metal lanterns creates the perfect romantic forest feel,” says Kylie Carlson, director of the International Academy of Wedding & Event Planning.

A mixture of light and dark floral hues perfectly captures the many tones you will find in nature. “From the rich brown of the wood to the bright greenery and lush white hydrangeas, they all blend together in a dazzling way,” adds Carlson.

When you begin a forest-theme design, you want to bring in as much of the outdoors as possible without overdoing it, according to Kim Sayatovic of Belladeux Event Design. Candles or twinkle lights will bring a fairy feel, which will make your guests feel like they are in a secret forest.

There is no detail that says “forest” more than greenery. “The rich green tones can be woven throughout a runner and combined with the dark tones of the plates to set the scene flawlessly,” says Carlson.

“The juxtaposition of a gold industrial cart mixed with the rustic browns and greens of the outdoors blends together beautifully. The metallic gold brings a brightness that helps to enhance the warm colors surrounding it,” adds Carlson.

Baby’s breath has long been a favorite choice among couples who want a more simple, rustic, and natural feel. A sweet bouquet that mixes in blue and purple accents is a lovely example of a look that will never go out of style.

If you decide to have your reception in an actual forest, keep the design as simple as possible. Think green runners and classic white linens. Don’t place elaborate floral pieces with exotic blooms in the middle of each table—they may be beautiful, but will look out of place. Just let nature take center stage.

This cake is a total showstopper that brings an ethereal and whimsical vibe. “By adding the lush moss tones and surrounding it with delicate blooms like baby’s breath and white candlesticks, it creates an almost fairyland woodland tone,” says Carlson.

According to Carlson, hanging florals is a big trend that has taken the wedding industry by storm. “An incredible hanging garden sparkles above the reception tables and is the epitome of romance with the abundance of candlelight hanging down and on the tables.”

Consider a centerpiece with a “just picked from the garden” look, Carlson suggests. It works well for anyone planning a woodland-themed event, and pairing it with fun accents like metallic flatware, coral candlesticks, and blush plates brings a fun and youthful aspect to the design.

If your ceremony is outdoors, consider hanging lights in the trees above your aisle—they will give the venue a truly magical feel and will look absolutely stunning in your photos. Adding a floral arch will serve as a visual focal point.

"Look for a venue that already has natural elements such as wood-paneled walls, [or one that] is surrounded by trees, or is even on the water. Rustic venues tend to work best for this [forest-themed] concept,” suggests Sayatovic.

Covering the tables in moss and adding centerpieces that feature mini pinecones, wild flowers, and greenery will definitely up the wow factor of your forest-inspired wedding. If you are looking to evoke the magical world of The Lord of the Rings as a sub-theme, then this tablescape design would match perfectly.