Planning your wedding can feel like a whirlwind, but when you’re going for a boho chic vibe, it’s all about embracing a laid-back, creative approach. After all, a boho wedding isn’t just a celebration; it’s an expression of who you are as a couple—quirks, individuality, and all. From rustic venues to vintage decor, the boho style is perfect for couples who want to make their wedding feel truly theirs.
Having helped countless couples plan their own boho weddings, I’ve learned that the beauty of this style lies in its flexibility. There’s no one-size-fits-all formula, but there are some steps that will help you stay on track while ensuring your big day is exactly what you imagined. In this guide, I’ll walk you through a month-by-month wedding planning checklist, tailored for couples like you who are ready to bring their boho dreams to life.
Month-by-Month Wedding Planning Checklist for a Boho Chic Wedding
12 Months Before: Setting the Stage for Your Boho Wedding
The 12-month mark is when the wedding planning journey really begins to take shape. It might seem far off, but trust me, this is the best time to get your wedding basics sorted. First things first, you’ll want to decide on your wedding vision. You’ve already got your boho style in mind, so now it’s time to start thinking about the big picture—your guest list, your overall vibe, and most importantly, your budget.
I remember when I first started planning my own wedding, the guest list seemed like such a huge decision. But once we had a rough idea of how many people we wanted to invite, the rest of the planning started falling into place. My partner and I agreed on a more intimate, relaxed celebration, which naturally led us to choose a rustic venue and a laid-back vibe. The most important thing is to stay true to your vision, and don’t be afraid to lean into what feels authentic to you.
This is also when you’ll want to start researching venues. I recommend choosing a place that offers flexibility in terms of decor—boho weddings thrive in venues that have an organic, natural vibe. Consider outdoor spaces like vineyards, gardens, or farms. In my experience, Melbourne’s countryside is full of hidden gems, and getting out of the city can help create that relaxed, free-spirited atmosphere that boho weddings are all about.
10-11 Months Before: Securing Your Dream Boho Chic Venue
Now that you’ve narrowed down your venue options, it’s time to secure the perfect spot. I always tell couples that the venue sets the tone for your wedding day, so choose wisely. For boho chic weddings, outdoor spaces are ideal. I worked with a couple who chose a farm in the Dandenong Ranges for their big day. The venue had sweeping views of the hills and a rustic barn that we transformed into a stunning boho reception space. The surrounding nature and space allowed for a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of creative freedom.
Venues like vineyards, beaches, or gardens are fantastic choices for your ceremony, and make sure to book early—these popular spots can get snapped up quickly, especially in Melbourne where we have so many incredible outdoor locations. When you’re scouting, consider the flow of the day: can you create a seamless transition from ceremony to reception? How flexible is the venue with your boho décor ideas? You want a place that feels intimate yet spacious enough for the relaxed, open vibe you’re aiming for.
8-9 Months Before: Boho Wedding Attire and Accessories Shopping
Once the venue is secured, it’s time to think about what you (and your partner) will wear. The beauty of a boho chic wedding is that the attire is relaxed, yet full of personality. For the bride, think about flowing silhouettes, light fabrics like chiffon or silk, and vintage-inspired details such as lace or crochet. When I helped a bride choose her boho wedding dress last year, we focused on finding something that matched her laid-back personality. We ended up with a gorgeous lace dress with soft bell sleeves—nothing too formal, but definitely striking in its simplicity.
The key with boho chic attire is comfort. You want a dress that allows you to move freely and enjoy the day. When I got married, I opted for a dress that felt as light as air—it had a relaxed fit, and I didn’t have to worry about a corset or anything tight. The style is all about ease, so don’t feel pressured to go for something extravagant unless that’s what feels right for you.
For accessories, less is more. Opt for nature-inspired pieces, like a floral crown or simple jewellery that complements your gown. I remember a bride who wore a beautiful, simple floral crown made with wildflowers that we picked from a nearby field. It was the perfect touch for her rustic boho theme.
Boho Chic Wedding Decoration Ideas: Infusing Natural Beauty into Your Big Day
Designing the Perfect Boho Wedding Atmosphere
When it comes to decorating your wedding, the boho style thrives on natural elements and eclectic touches. Think about incorporating wood, linen, and vintage furniture to bring a sense of comfort and warmth to your ceremony and reception spaces. I’ve worked with many couples who chose to bring in mismatched chairs and wooden tables, and the results were stunning. The contrast of rustic wood against lush greenery and wildflowers creates an atmosphere that feels both grounded and whimsical.
Consider mixing textures like soft linen with a touch of velvet, or pairing wicker furniture with leather accents. The more layers and textures you add, the more depth and warmth you bring to the space. You can easily transform a blank canvas venue into a boho wonderland, and this is where your creativity really shines. For one couple I worked with in the Dandenong Ranges, we used a mix of antique rugs, linen drapes, and fairy lights to create a dream-like setting in their barn reception area.
Floral Arrangements: Wildflowers, Pampas Grass, and Greenery
No boho wedding is complete without flowers, and the best part about boho florals is that they’re anything but traditional. Think wildflowers, pampas grass, and greenery—all working together to bring the natural world into your celebration. I had a couple last year who wanted a truly wild and natural look for their wedding flowers, so we used a mix of eucalyptus, lavender, and bright wildflowers in their bouquets. The result was a vibrant, carefree style that perfectly matched the boho theme.
If you’re opting for floral arrangements at your venue, consider including pampas grass, which has become a boho wedding staple. It adds a sense of softness and movement, and it’s perfect for both indoor and outdoor settings. Don’t forget to include greenery like eucalyptus or sage—these plants not only look beautiful, but they also help ground the space and add texture to your arrangements.
Lighting and Decor to Set the Mood: String Lights, Candles, and Dreamy Details
Lighting is one of the most important elements when creating a boho atmosphere. Think of soft, romantic lighting that adds warmth and intimacy to the space. When planning my own wedding, I remember being completely taken by the idea of fairy lights. We strung them across the barn beams, and it created such a magical, ethereal glow that felt like we were in a dream.
Candles are another must-have for any boho wedding. There’s something about the flicker of candlelight that sets a relaxing, romantic tone. From tea lights in mason jars to larger pillar candles, use candles to create ambient lighting that enhances the boho vibe. Lanterns are also a great addition, especially if you’re hosting an outdoor ceremony or reception.
One bride I worked with wanted to create a truly magical outdoor reception under the stars. We used string lights wrapped around tree branches, candles scattered along the path, and lanterns hanging from rustic poles. The result was absolutely breathtaking—a perfect blend of natural beauty and soft lighting that felt intimate and dreamy.
Furniture and Personal Touches: Mismatched Chairs, Vintage Pieces, and DIY Decor
Boho weddings thrive on the beauty of mismatched, eclectic furniture and décor. It’s not about uniformity, but about creating a comfortable, inviting atmosphere that reflects your personal style. Consider using vintage furniture or pieces you can repurpose. For example, an old wooden table might be the perfect centerpiece for your reception, paired with mismatched chairs to create a relaxed, informal feel.
A lot of couples I’ve worked with here in Melbourne have found fantastic vintage furniture at local markets, second-hand shops, or even online. You can use these pieces to create lounging areas with velvet armchairs or rattan peacock chairs, which are always a hit at boho weddings.
DIY elements are also key to achieving that personal boho touch. One of the best parts of planning a boho wedding is incorporating handmade details, from macramé garlands to DIY flower arrangements. I helped a bride who made her own wedding favours—small jars of homemade jam with hand-written tags. It’s those little touches that make your wedding feel personal and unique.
5 Must-Have Elements for a Memorable Boho Wedding
When planning your boho chic wedding, there are a few key elements that truly make it stand out. These essentials are what will give your wedding that authentic, down-to-earth vibe that boho is known for.
- Personal Touches – Whether it’s DIY flower crowns or custom wedding favours, adding personal elements to your celebration will make it feel unique and special. For example, I helped a bride create hand-crafted invitations made from pressed wildflowers, and it was such a meaningful touch that perfectly captured her boho style.
- Natural Florals and Greenery – Don’t skimp on the flowers. Wildflowers, pampas grass, and eucalyptus are your best friends when designing your floral arrangements. The wild, untamed beauty of these flowers adds authenticity to your boho wedding. Think about mixing bold colours and shapes to create a relaxed yet stunning visual effect.
- Soft Lighting – The right lighting transforms a space. String lights, candles, and lanterns are a must for creating that magical boho atmosphere. For one wedding I worked on, we draped fairy lights around a rustic barn, and the result was pure enchantment.
- Eclectic Decor – Mismatched furniture, vintage pieces, and an abundance of textures (think linen, wood, velvet) will create a boho wonderland. I worked on a reception where we used vintage velvet armchairs and wooden tables to create a cozy, bohemian vibe. It felt like the guests had stepped into a dream.
- Relaxed Vibe – Don’t forget that the boho style is about laid-back elegance. Whether it’s the attire, the food, or the flow of the day, aim for comfort and ease. This is a celebration of love, and it should feel relaxed, not rushed.
How to Keep Everything Flowing Smoothly
The wedding day can go by in a flash, but with the right planning, it can be stress-free and fun. One thing I always recommend is creating a wedding day timeline that reflects the relaxed, laid-back vibe of a boho celebration. This timeline doesn’t have to be rigid, but it should provide a basic structure for things like hair and makeup, the ceremony, dinner, speeches, and dancing.
I remember one wedding I worked on where the couple had a relaxed timeline that allowed for plenty of flexibility. The ceremony started at sunset, followed by a dinner under the stars. There was no rush—guests mingled and enjoyed the moment, and it flowed effortlessly into the evening with music and dancing. That’s the beauty of a boho wedding: you don’t need to stick to the clock. Just enjoy the day, and it will unfold naturally.
Here’s a sample timeline that balances the relaxed boho vibe with the essential wedding moments:
Morning:
- 7:00 am: Hair and makeup for the bride and bridal party (boho styles are usually natural and relaxed, so allow plenty of time for everyone to feel comfortable).
- 9:00 am: Light breakfast and preparations.
- 11:00 am: Bridesmaids get dressed, followed by the bride.
Early Afternoon:
- 12:30 pm: Guests begin to arrive at the venue.
- 1:00 pm: Ceremony starts (if you’re having an outdoor ceremony, aim for late morning or early afternoon to catch the best light).
Late Afternoon:
- 2:00 pm: Cocktail hour (think of local wines, a signature drink, or light bites like cheese platters or charcuterie boards).
- 3:00 pm: Reception begins.
Evening:
- 5:00 pm: Dinner is served (food trucks or buffet-style dining work well for boho weddings).
- 6:00 pm: Speeches and toasts.
- 7:00 pm: Dancing begins (boho weddings are all about fun and connection, so don’t forget to schedule time for mingling and dancing).
- 9:00 pm: Cake cutting (boho wedding cakes are often simple and naked, adorned with fresh flowers).
- 10:00 pm: Send-off or late-night snacks (if your venue allows, consider a fun photo corner or snack station as the night winds down).
This timeline offers enough structure to ensure key moments are covered, while still allowing for the organic, flowing feel of a boho wedding. The key is to keep things light and relaxed, so don’t stress if things shift a little along the way.
