a groom and a bride in the forest posing for the camera
Photo: Wedding Dreamz

Imagine saying "I do" beneath a canopy of ancient trees, sunlight dappling through emerald leaves, and the melody of birdsong filling the air. Enchanted forest weddings offer a unique blend of romance, adventure, and natural beauty, creating a wedding day that feels like stepping into a real-life fairytale.

But planning a wedding amid woods, just like a mountain wedding, requires a hefty wedding budget and a bunch of creative magic. To help you weave your own enchanting love story, here are 5 breathtaking outdoor wedding ideas for your magical forest ceremony.

decorative elements and dining set-up for forest wedding ceremony

5 Breathtaking Outdoor Wedding Ideas for Your Enchanted Forest Ceremony

#1. Natural Altar: Embracing the Woodland Charm


Begin your wedding planning by moving beyond the standard wedding arch. Instead, consider incorporating the natural elements of the forest into your altar design. Seek out tree alcoves or naturally occurring clearings that can serve as an intimate and organic altar space. Of course, only if it is allowed by the law and the venue, where your forest wedding is going to take place.

  • *Tip: Scout your venue beforehand to discover unique natural features that can serve as enchanting altar alcoves, ensuring a seamless blend with the surrounding forest.

#2. Pathway Illumination: Guiding the Way to Romance


As daylight fades into twilight, guide your guests through the enchanting forest with a whimsical pathway illuminated by soft, ambient lighting. Consider using little lanterns, fairy lights, or even mason jars filled with twinkling candles to create a magical atmosphere along the walkway. This not only adds a touch of romance but also ensures safe passage for your guests as they navigate through the forest to witness your exchange of vows. 

  • *Tip: Experiment with different lighting options during a nighttime visit to the venue to achieve the perfect balance between enchantment and practicality.

green and brown color palette for forest wedding

#3. Interactive Guest Experiences: Unconventional Entertainment


When you are lost in an enchanted forest, it is best to break away from traditional wedding entertainment. How about hiring a fortune teller or a woodland witch? Consider hiring a strolling magician to weave through the forest, delighting attendees with close-up magic tricks. 

Another unique idea is a fire-dancer performance or a live acoustic band nestled among the trees. These unconventional entertainment choices not only add an element of surprise but also create lasting memories for your guests.

  • *Tip: Tailor the entertainment to the forest setting, ensuring that it enhances rather than detracts from the natural ambiance. Consult a venue rentee, before hiring fire-performacers.

bride in a white dress is walking barefoot in the forest
Photo: Kitera Dent

#4. Floral Canopy: Hanging Gardens in the Treetops 


If you plan to take wedding photos inside of the forest, you definitely need to incorporate the nest idea. Try creating a floral canopy suspended from the trees. Choose a color palette that complements the natural surroundings and creates a captivating visual display as the blooms sway gently in the breeze. 

  • *Tip: Work with a florist experienced in outdoor installations to ensure the blooms are securely fastened and won't harm the trees. Opt for hardy flowers that can withstand varying weather conditions.

#5. Themed Seating Arrangements: Forest Feast


Transform your reception area into an intimate forest feast by incorporating themed seating arrangements that seamlessly blend with the enchanting surroundings. Instead of traditional table numbers, opt for whimsical woodland creature names or famous literary forests. Enhance the atmosphere with moss-covered table runners, wooden accents, and well-chosen floral centerpieces. This not only adds a personalized touch but also creates a dining experience that transports guests to a magical realm.

  • *Tip: Collaborate with a local artisan to create custom table markers that align with your enchanted forest theme, infusing a unique and personal element into your decor.

Let's summarize...


From twinkling lights to moss-covered moss, your forest wedding ceremony is an invitation to adventure and joy. Gather your loved ones under the boughs of ancient trees, let laughter echo through the woods, and dance under the starry sky. Hopefully, these ideas are just the spark to ignite your imagination, so go forth and create a celebration that's as wild and free as your love.

Lots of love,
Liz