Planning a Barn Wedding in the Carmel, Monterey Area
By DJ Justin Warwick from DJ Enterprises Mobile Disc Jockey & Photo Booth
If you’re looking for a unique and rustic wedding venue in the Monterey, Carmel area, consider having a barn wedding. A barn wedding can be a charming and intimate affair that will make your special day truly memorable. Here’s everything you need to know about having a barn wedding in the Monterey, Carmel area.
Choosing the Right Barn Venue
The Monterey, Carmel area is home to many beautiful barn venues that are perfect for a wedding. When choosing your venue, consider the size of the barn, the amenities it offers, and the overall style and vibe of the venue. Many barn venues in the area offer outdoor spaces for ceremonies and receptions, as well as indoor spaces for dining and dancing. Some venues also offer on-site accommodations for the bridal party and guests.
Some popular barn venues in the Monterey, Carmel area include Holman Ranch, and the Barns at Cooper Molera. These venues offer beautiful and scenic settings, as well as a range of amenities and services to make your wedding day run smoothly. Just outside of the Monterey area in Paicines is the Paicines Ranch, the weather is a little warmer inland, but it’s worth mentioning.
Decorating Your Barn Wedding
One of the advantages of having a barn wedding is the rustic and natural setting that lends itself to a range of creative and charming decor options. To decorate your barn wedding, consider incorporating natural elements such as flowers, greenery, and wood accents. Mason jars, burlap, and lace are popular decor elements that can add a vintage and rustic feel to your wedding.
Lighting is also an important aspect of barn wedding decor. Consider using string lights, lanterns, and candles to create a warm and romantic atmosphere. Ask you DJ how they can highlight architectural features of the barn with Up-Lighting. If your barn venue allows open flames, you can even use a bonfire or fire pit as a unique and memorable lighting feature.
Choosing Your Barn Wedding Attire
When choosing your wedding attire for a barn wedding, it’s important to consider the rustic and informal setting. A traditional ball gown or tuxedo may not be the best fit for a barn wedding. Instead, consider wearing a flowy and romantic dress with lace or floral accents, or a relaxed suit with suspenders or a vest.
For footwear, consider wearing boots or flats that are comfortable and practical for walking on uneven surfaces. Accessorize with simple and natural elements such as a floral crown or a burlap bowtie.
Catering and Menu Options
Barn weddings offer a range of menu options that are perfect for a rustic and informal setting. Consider serving barbecue, farm-to-table cuisine, or even a DIY food station such as a build-your-own taco bar or s’mores station. Local wine and beer are also popular choices for barn weddings in the Monterey, Carmel area.
If your barn venue doesn’t offer on-site catering, consider hiring a local caterer who specializes in rustic and farm-to-table cuisine. Many caterers in the area can also provide rental equipment such as tables, chairs, and linens.
Book the Best DJ in the area
This is the part where I plug myself Lol. Seriously do yourself a favor and find the best entertainment possible, it will really make a huge difference. Most DJs I see are using the same type of equipment, and have the same look, typically a bunch of black cases stacked on top of a table, not barn style, and not even cool. You want your DJ to have a look that fits in with your surroundings and doesn’t look out of place. When I DJ at barn weddings I bring a unique retro looking sound system that is covered in old style tweed fabric. It’s completely modern high-end equipment, it just looks classy chic.
Final Thoughts
A barn wedding in the Monterey, Carmel area can be a charming and memorable affair that you and your guests will remember for years to come. When planning your barn wedding, consider choosing a venue that fits your style and budget, decorating with natural and rustic elements, choosing wedding attire that is practical and informal, serving a menu that reflects the rustic and informal setting, and book the best DJ in the area. With a little creativity and planning, your barn wedding can be a truly magical experience.
To find out more about the Barn venues I mentioned check out these links:
Holman Ranch www.holmanranch.com
Barns at Cooper Molera www.coopermolerabarns.com
Paicines Ranch www.paicinesranch.com
Holly Farm www.hollyfarm.com