DIY Americana-Themed Wedding

The flag offers a basis for Americana-themed wedding decor.

From sea to shining sea, America's rich history and diversity provides a variety of wedding theme ideas. Americana-themed weddings are full of rustic charm, but won't break your bank, especially when graced with genuine homemade decor. A color scheme of red, white and blue offers a stunning combination bursting with patriotic flair. The many choices in American music, cuisine and local flora can create an unforgettable wedding.

Things You'll Need

• Poetry book
• Cookbook
• Craft supplies

Instructions

1. Research your region-specific theme, general Americana-theme or blend of both. Add region-specific elements of your home town or state, including your state's flower in decorations or using a quote from a local author on your wedding invitations. Combine elements from all regions of the United States with national elements, using the rose -- the official flower of the United States -- in your decorations for a general Americana theme.

2. Contact a local historical society for a guide to sites with local historical significance -- such as an old church or town square -- where you could hold your wedding. Contact the staff of the venue directly to inquire about private bookings.

3. Investigate recipes from a cookbook of Revolution-era fare, such as "The Art of Cookery Made Plain and Easy" or select dishes from "American Regional Cuisine" for region-specific traditional and contemporary food. Create a menu of Texas barbeque with lemonade and chilled salads, Baltimore crab cakes, or a traditional New England clam bake.

4. Design the cake. Use frosting colors, berries, colored sugar, or paper decorations on picks to create the red, white and blue color scheme. Keep the rustic look by not smoothing out frosting or using elaborate piped decorations.

5. Choose informal attire. Americana-themed weddings are typically informal or casual weddings, and the rustic look of the food and decor would clash with formal attire. A sport coat and tie or tea-length dress is typical of Americana-themed weddings.

6. Employ wedding decor projects designed for the Fourth of July. Use red, white and blue bunting and rosettes to decorate tables. Make centerpieces with cellophane sprays and vinyl stars to evoke the look of fireworks. Form banners of red, white and blue paper or cloth stars to decorate the walls.

Tips & Warnings

• Americana-themed weddings are often held in family homes.

• Make sure that the venue allows your homemade decorations and home-cooked food; ask before signing your contract or submitting a deposit.

• If you plan to make a wedding dress, use vintage sewing patterns for a dress with down-home charm.

• The red, white and blue color scheme is not required for Americana-themed weddings. Draw from local scenery for inspiration in using alternate color schemes.

• The rustic look of Americana-themed weddings usually clashes with lavish venues and formal attire.

References

• The Knot: Americana Weddings: Your Americana Wedding Guide
• WV Weddings: An Americana Wedding

Resources

• The Knot: Fourth of July Weddings
• Hobby Lobby: July 4th Projects
• Sewing and Craft Alliance: Patriotic USA No-Sew Banner
• American Regional Cuisine; Michael F. Nenes, Art Institutes
• The Art of Cookery Made Plain and Easy; Hannah Glasse
• Better Homes and Gardens: Easy DIY Decorations for the Fourth of July