15 Casual Wedding Ideas to Make Your Special Day Relaxed and Memorable
Planning a wedding can be a lot, right? Leaning into a casual style really takes the pressure off and lets you have some fun with it.
A casual wedding puts the focus on what’s important—being with your favorite people, minus the rules and the stress.
A casual wedding gives you the chance to create a comfortable and low-key celebration that suits your personality and style. You can keep things simple while still making your day special and memorable for you and your guests.
1) Outdoor garden ceremony with fairy lights
Create a cozy, charming vibe with an outdoor garden ceremony. Hang fairy lights above your space for a soft, warm glow that feels welcoming.
This little detail makes everything look magical but still easygoing. Enjoy nature and skip the fuss.
Try draping lights over trees or along pathways to gently guide your guests. If you want more inspiration, check out garden weddings with fairy lights.
2) Food truck catering with diverse options
Food trucks set a playful, relaxed tone for your day. Offer a mix of foods—maybe tacos, maybe vegan bowls—so everyone finds something they like.
It’s a great way for people to mingle and grab a bite without the usual sit-down formality. Curious about options? More details on food truck weddings here.
3) Mismatched vintage chairs for seating
Mixing vintage chairs brings a laid-back and charming look to your ceremony. Different styles and colors make the space feel cozy and real.
These chairs add personality and work with rustic or boho themes. Borrowing or thrifting them can save you cash and make things more personal.
If you want ideas, see mismatched vintage chairs.
4) DIY flower crown station
Set up a DIY flower crown station for your guests. Lay out blooms, greenery, and some simple tools so everyone can get creative.
It’s a fun, hands-on activity that fits perfectly with a relaxed wedding. People love making something they can wear and show off.
Want to set one up? Here’s a guide to creating a flower crown station.
5) Casual dress code: sundresses and linen shirts
Keep outfits easy and comfortable. Women can go for breezy sundresses in cotton or chiffon.
Men might reach for linen shirts with chinos or dress pants. These fabrics help everyone stay cool, especially outside in the summer.
Sandals or loafers finish the look without making things stuffy. If you need ideas, check out casual wedding attire for men & women.
6) Lawn games like cornhole and giant Jenga
Lawn games like cornhole and giant Jenga keep guests entertained and loosen up the vibe. They’re easy for all ages and get people mixing.
Set up a few stations so folks can play between events. Customizing game pieces to match your theme is a nice touch.
Check out more ideas in outdoor wedding game guides.
7) Buffet-style comfort food
Buffet-style comfort food makes the whole event feel warm and inviting. Dishes like mac and cheese or fried chicken let guests pick their favorites.
Buffets keep things casual. Everyone eats at their own pace and enjoys familiar, crowd-pleasing food.
8) Signature cocktail served in mason jars
Serve your signature drink in mason jars for a relaxed and homey feel. They’re perfect for rustic themes and easy for guests to carry.
Add fresh fruit or herbs to make each drink pop. Mason jars keep things unfussy and fun.
Looking for drink ideas? See budget-friendly signature wedding cocktails.
9) Barefoot beach wedding vibe
Ditch the shoes and let everyone go barefoot for a beach wedding. Feeling the sand under your feet instantly makes things more relaxed.
You get to enjoy the ocean breeze and keep the ceremony low-key. It’s a simple way to make the day feel personal and close to nature.
Need more inspiration? Check out barefoot ceremony ideas.
10) Mix-and-match table linens
Mix up table linens—play with colors, patterns, or textures that go together without matching exactly. It adds a playful, casual feel to your tables.
Layer tablecloths and runners for more depth and personality. Want more on this trend? Check out mix-and-match table linen ideas.
11) Late afternoon ceremony with sunset photos
Plan your ceremony for late afternoon to catch that soft, golden light. It feels romantic and laid-back.
Afterward, take photos at sunset for beautiful, natural colors and relaxed vibes. These are the moments you’ll want to remember.
For more tips, check out casual wedding ideas with sunset photos.
12) Personalized wooden signage
Add warmth with personalized wooden signs. Put your names, the date, or a fun message on them.
Use the signs to guide guests or highlight spots like the bar or dance floor. They work well for rustic or outdoor themes.
Explore different styles to match your vibe. For inspiration, see personalized wooden wedding signs.
13) String light canopy over the dance floor
Hang string lights over the dance floor to make the space cozy and magical. The soft glow feels inviting and a little whimsical.
It works indoors or out, and it’s a simple way to set the mood. Who doesn’t love dancing under twinkle lights?
Want to try it? Here’s how to make a string light canopy.
14) Minimalist rustic centerpiece jars
Keep centerpieces simple with clear jars filled with wildflowers or greenery. It’s fresh, unfussy, and looks great on any table.
Wrap a bit of twine or lace around the jar for a rustic touch. These are easy to DIY and budget-friendly.
Want more ideas? Check out rustic wedding centerpieces with mason jars.
15) Chalkboard menu displays
Chalkboard menus add a personal touch to your wedding. They make it easy for guests to see what food and drinks you’re offering.
These boards work especially well with rustic or laid-back themes. You can write the menu in your own handwriting, or get creative with doodles—whatever feels right.
Set the chalkboard near the food area, or even put smaller ones on each table. It’s a low-key way to keep everyone in the loop without fuss.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out some wedding chalkboard menu ideas here.
