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A Tipi Wedding

Thank you for capturing all these special moments and making our memories of the day look as beautiful as it felt.
Thank you so much!! M&R

 

First dance at wedding in tipi
cute table plan and cactus wedding idea
Bride & Groom smiling with their pet dog
hanging floral display in tipi
Bride and groom smiling with golden light coming through the trees
Tipi and barrels in garden for a home wedding

Want a tipi wedding?

If you’ve got your heart set on an unforgettable wedding that feels laid-back, rustic, and full of personality, a tipi wedding might just be the one. Imagine saying “I do” surrounded by natural beauty, with a cosy, magical atmosphere created inside a spacious tipi. It sounds dreamy, right? Well, the good news is that planning a tipi wedding doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little creativity and some thoughtful preparation, you can create the wedding of your dreams. Let’s dive into how you can plan the perfect tipi wedding.

Choosing the Right Tipi

The first step in any tipi wedding is, of course, finding your tipi! There are a lot of companies out there that rent out these stunning, canvas tents. When choosing, consider the following:

  • Size: How many guests are you inviting? Tipis can be incredibly spacious, but you’ll want to make sure the one you choose comfortably fits everyone you’re expecting.
  • Style: Some tipis have a more traditional look, while others come with additional features like clear sides or built-in flooring. Think about the vibe you want and whether you’d like extra touches like string lights or a dance floor inside.
  • Location: Tipis are often used for outdoor weddings, so you’ll need to find a beautiful location that works. You might need to get permits depending on where you are, so make sure to check with local authorities.

 

Couple walking through purple field of flowers and large tree in the background

Pick Your Dream Location

While tipis are incredibly versatile, you’ll need to find a spot that gives you the natural beauty to match. Whether it’s a farm, a forest clearing, or a field, your location sets the tone for everything.

  • Consider Access: If you’re choosing a rural spot, consider how easy it is for guests to get to. You’ll want to think about parking, accessibility for elderly guests, and even transport if your location is remote.
  • Natural Features: Take full advantage of your surroundings. A lake, a hilltop view, or an ancient oak tree can serve as a stunning backdrop to your ceremony.
Bride and groom laughing at wedding speeches captured naturally by Frances Foster
Family and friends cheering to wedding speech in front of a tipi
QR code display to share photos
Table scape decorations inside tipi wedding

Lighting and Decor – Setting the Mood

One of the best parts of a tipi wedding is the cosy, intimate feel. The lighting you choose will play a big role in creating that atmosphere. Tipis have a naturally soft and warm glow when lit properly, but you’ll want to layer your lighting for a truly magical vibe.

  • Fairy Lights: String lights are a must! They twinkle overhead and instantly transform the space into something dreamy.
  • Candles: Add some vintage or rustic candle holders for a soft glow, and think about using candles on tables or around the perimeter to create ambiance (if tipi company allows).
  • Lanterns: Vintage lanterns are perfect for adding a touch of charm to the venue.
  • A Focal Point: Don’t forget your ceremony space! A flower arch, a wooden arch, or even a simple drape can make a stunning statement.

Creating the Perfect Flow

Tipi weddings tend to be more informal and relaxed, which makes for a fun atmosphere, but you still need to think about how the day will flow.

  • The Ceremony: Many couples choose to have their ceremony outside and then move inside the tipi for the reception. The beauty of a tipi is that it’s versatile—whether you’re saying your vows inside or out, you’re already surrounded by nature. Think about seating arrangements too; rustic wooden benches or hay bales can create a laid-back vibe.
  • The Reception: Set up a designated area for dining, dancing, and mingling. Long communal tables with mismatched chairs can add to the boho, rustic charm. You can also think about having a chill-out area with some comfy lounges or cushions where guests can relax and chat.
  • Bar and Food: Food trucks, farm-to-table catering, or a DIY barbecue work wonderfully with tipi weddings. You can get as creative as you like with your food options!

Weather-Proof Your Wedding

While tipis are fantastic for protecting from the rain, it’s still worth having a backup plan for particularly challenging weather conditions. Have a few umbrellas on hand, and consider adding some sidewalls to your tipi to keep guests comfy if there’s a breeze or drizzle. It’s also smart to have a plan B for seating or additional shelter, just in case the weather gets unpredictable.

Add Personal Touches

A tipi wedding is all about personality, so don’t be afraid to go for quirky, personal details. Here are some ideas:

  • Guest Book: Skip the traditional book and try something fun, like a polaroid camera guest book or a wooden puzzle where guests sign a piece.
  • Games: Lawn games like giant Jenga, croquet, or cornhole are perfect for keeping guests entertained between the ceremony and reception.
  • Themed Decor: Whether it’s a travel theme, a vintage aesthetic, or a boho chic vibe, make sure your wedding decor tells your story. Personal touches like vintage suitcases, maps, and handmade signs can really add a unique flair.

Don’t Forget the Music

The right music will make or break the vibe of your wedding, so think carefully about what you want playing throughout the day. A live band can really bring the energy up, or you can create a killer playlist that fits the mood—upbeat for dancing, romantic for your first dance, and soft tunes during dinner.

Don’t Stress – Enjoy the Process

Planning a tipi wedding is all about embracing the beauty of the outdoors, the relaxed atmosphere, and the joy of spending the day with your closest family and friends. It’s a chance to be creative and think outside the box. And while it can feel like a lot of work at times, remember that the most important thing is that you and your partner are having fun and making memories.

At the end of the day, it’s your wedding, and there’s no right or wrong way to plan it. So, grab a cup of tea, start brainstorming ideas, and enjoy the process of creating a day that’s totally “you.”

And remember: when in doubt, just picture those fairy lights sparkling under the canvas, the gentle breeze, and the happy faces of your loved ones all around you—it’s going to be magic.

And if you want the tipi wedding without all the hard work of the planning then I definitely recommend getting a wedding planner involved who specialises in Marquee weddings. I often work with Louisa May weddings and she really knows her stuff!

Dancing at wedding in tipi
father and daughter first dance at tipi wedding in Hertfordshire
Couple and their dog laughing and playing at wedding

SUPPLIERS

 

Photographer – FRANCES FOSTER

Tipi – Blue Sky Tipis

Planner – Louisa May Weddings

Flowers – Flowers by Kristina

DJ – Fox and Braces

Videographer – Maverick weddings

Cakes – Kerry Ann’s Cakes

Ready to chat?