The Best Barn Venues for Your Rustic Chic Wedding

Oct 01, 2016

Full of character and charm without too much fuss, countryside weddings are the kind that marry elegance and ease perfectly. And with the rustic trend taking the nuptials world by storm, there’s no reason why you wouldn’t want your *dream* rustic wedding at an oh-so-chic barn. There’s something truly magical about a weathered barn set among rolling hills and century-old trees. If you’re already pinning lots of rural-inspired wedding images, one of these barn wedding venues might just be what you and your love are looking for. Scroll on for major barn-chic inspo, and get ready to start planning your signature cocktails and that perfect color palette around these whimsical spots.

1. White Sparrow Barn: We’re not lying when we say this is one of the most beautiful vintage barns we’ve ever seen for a wedding. Ever. You can rest assure that your wedding photos at this stunning whitewashed Union Valley, Texas barn venue will be treasured for generations. (via Becca Lea / Southern Weddings)

2. The Peace Barn: With those mountains as your backdrop, you two won’t need much more than touches of loose florals and a soft, boho dress for your special day. Getting married beneath the canopy of these huge trees just 30 miles up the coast from San Francisco will be like a dream come true. (via Jesse Leake / Snippet & Ink)

3. Desert Foothills Barn: If you’re dreaming of a beautiful Arizona sunset as the backdrop to your rustic Scottsdale wedding, you’ll want to check out this unique venue. Wedding guests will be in awe when they arrive and get a true taste of the Southwest. (via Melissa Schollaert Photography / Style Me Pretty)

4. Coquelicot Vineyard: This wine country venue embodies all that is beautiful about countryside weddings. With a dash of casual and a smidge of fun, you and your S.O. will have the time of your lives — all while sipping on your favorite cocktails, since this relaxed barn lets you bring your own hard liquor. (via Mark Brooke Photography / Style Me Pretty)

5. Fat Cat Farm: A wedding on this rustic yet elegant farm is about as good as it gets. Full of Southern charm and summery touches, this Charlottesville, Virginia venue will elevate your party to a relaxed new level. (via Jen Fariello Photography / Style Me Pretty)

6. Dos Pueblos Ranch: This charming barn is the ideal spot whether you’re thinking of an intimate soiree or a big celebration. Just keep in mind that each area of the property must be rented separately, and you’ll be in charge of pulling together all the elements — from decor to seating and catering — to make your big day a reality. (via Pat Moyer Photography / Style Me Pretty)

7. The Valley Club: If your style is more sophisticated classic with hints of countryside charm, this private club in Sun Valley, Idaho will get you that perfect combination you’re after for your big day. Complete with mountain views and an epic dance party, your nuptials will be pure perfection. (via Pat Moyer Photography / Style Me Pretty)

8. Durham Ranch: With 33-foot ceilings and glass roll-up doors, this modern barn in the heart of Napa Valley is certainly a masterpiece. It has a chic ceremony space that will give you just the right amount of clean, natural architecture with a bit of privacy, thanks to the wall of lush oak trees. (via Wedding Spot)

9. Hammersky Vineyards: Just a few hours north of Los Angeles, this rustic-chic 107-year-old farmhouse with 50 acres of vineyard views will add a New England flair to your West Coast wedding. Instead of walking down the aisle, set your ceremony in its century-old grove of olive trees. (via For the Love of It / Inspired by This)

10. Sweet Meadow Farms: Sweetly Southern, this charming Georgia-based venue will be calling your name in no time. The design is so pretty and so simple, it’ll give you the chance to show off and allow your own style to shine through, whether you choose an indoor reception or long tables on the yard. (via Ben and Colleen / The Venue Report)

11. Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards: Set on a vineyard in Central Virginia, this gorgeous spot is historically charming while still being modern and marvelous. Plus, they offer fully stocked bars with an on-site mixologist to make you and your love’s favorite cocktails. (via Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards)

12. Hidden Vineyard Barn: Get ready to throw on your dancing boots and host one heck of a party for your spring wedding at this “hidden” gem. Located 90 minutes from Chicago, this restored barn has the second largest catalpa tree in Michigan and makes for a wonderful outdoor ceremony site. (via The Venue Report)

13. Greengate Ranch & Vineyards: In true California coastal style, this vintage barn has the most breathtaking views of the rolling hills and verdant vineyard while still giving your guests relaxing vibes. After you say your vows under its fabulous walnut tree, start the festivities in the courtyard with cocktail in hand. (via Greengate Ranch & Vineyards)

14. Fearrington Barn: Located on a historic dairy farm near Chapel Hill, North Carolina, this Southern gem offers whimsical grounds that allow for garden ceremonies year-round, followed by a big barn bash. Plus, their five-star, five-diamond catering will leave your guests seriously impressed. (via Krystal Kast Photographers / Fab Your Bliss)

15. The Barn at Green Valley: It’s not often that a beautiful new barn venue pops up in Napa Valley, but this super cute spot with rolling vineyards will be nothing short of sheer perfection for your nuptials. And those dripping lilacs? So beautiful! Your guests will feel as if they’re in the French countryside. (via The Venue Report)

16. The Windmill Winery: With its blend of rural authenticity and subtle elegance, this unique wedding venue in Arizona will make you swoon. It provides lush greenery, mountain views and total comfort for you and your partner in crime to feel right at home. (via Lear Miller Photography / The Venue Report)

17. Bloom Lake Barn: Set in the picturesque St. Croix Valley, this wooden barn will add a country charm to your wedding, with its rustic beams and high-top tables built from milking stanchions. And it’s just a short 40-mile drive from the Twin Cities, so your out-of-town guests can find plenty to do in the area. (via Bloom Lake Barn)

18. Blue Dress Barn: Dance the night away under a vast open timber roof at Michigan’s Blue Dress Bar. With two second-story decks overlooking the gardens and fields, it offers you and your guests the loveliest personalized gathering. (via The Knot)

19. Hayloft on the Arch: The hills, valleys and woodlands of this Vernon Center, New York venue create the ideal backdrop for a once-in-a-lifetime event. The exposed beams and lofted ceiling give you plenty of room to string bistro lights throughout the entire barn. (via Hayloft on the Arch)

20. Overlook Barn: If you want a breathtaking view as the backdrop for your ceremony or reception, this gorgeous barn in Banner Elk, North Carolina, located at the top of Beech Mountain, is the perfect spot for you. The two acres of meadow surrounding the barn provide plenty of room to explore — and pose for wedding photos. (via Michelle Lyerly Photography / The Venue Report)

21. Wildberry Farm: This romantic haven is a countryside daydream for the ultimate Southern couple. Feel free to let loose, turn up the music and create a night full of extraordinary memories in this climate-controlled indoor and outdoor covered space. (via Pasha Belman / The Venue Report)

22. Five Oaks Farm: You know what they say — everything is bigger in Texas. Go all out for your big day at this grand and glamorous farm venue. You and your guests will be surrounded by oak trees, beautiful sunsets and an antique windmill that will pair so well with your vintage-themed wedding. (via Five Oaks Farm)

23. The Century Barn: Give your wedding guests a warm welcome at this lovely rustic barn. It’s surrounded by more than 200 acres in the small town of Mt. Horeb, Wisconsin — ideal for your outdoorsy celebration. Plus, imagine the scent of the hops gardens wafting through the air, perfuming your ceremony and sparking your reception. (via Dani Stephenson Photography / The Venue Report)

Did you see a location on our list that caught your eye? Follow us on Pinterest for more wedding inspo.

15 Graduation Gifts Perfect For The Class Of 2024

College and high school graduations are just around the corner, and you may be wondering what to get your favorite Gen Z grads. Luckily for you, we compiled a list of 15 fabulous graduation gifts for every price range that are guaranteed to put a smile on your graduate’s face!

Set of 4 Meal Prep Containers

Who doesn’t love pretty Tupperware? Whether your 2024 grad is a gym rat or a library lover, they will definitely find a good use for these air-tight, leak-proof containers.

Benevolence LA New Beginnings Scented Soy Candle

Send them off with this sweet-scented candle that celebrates their achievements, as well as the next steps ahead of them!

A Hundred Other Girlsby Iman Hariri-Kia

This book is like a modern day Devil Wears Prada, and would make the perfect gift for any grad going into journalism, media, or PR — especially if they’re moving to a big city.

Stanley Quencher H2.0

Hydration is key for anyone, especially a new college student that's running between classes, club meetings, and friend hangs! This tumbler will also keep their liquids cold overnight so they don't have to go down the dorm hall in the middle of the night for a fresh refill.

Dagne Dover Mila Repreve® Recycled Polyester Large Toiletry Organizer Bag

If you're sending off a high school grad to communal dorms, they'll definitely benefit from having a compact toiletry bag like this one. This style is particularly nice since it's made from recycled polyester that resists water and debris.

2024 Daily Planner

Using a planner is such an underrated way to stay organized, whether it's prepping for college coursework or adulting stuff like work events, grocery shopping, and plans with friends. This all-in-one daily planner will help your grad keep their ducks in a row with fields for all of life's details.

Honeywell Mini Cool Mist Humidifier

This humidifier, made especially for small rooms and personal spaces (ahem, dorm rooms!) helps maintain humidity levels between 40-60%, which can help relieve congestion and keep the throat and nasal passages hydrated to prevent sickness. This is crucial for soon-to-be college students who may hang around a lot of different people.

Fresh Sends Flower Bouquet

Flowers are a staple for any major life event, especially a graduation! Fresh Sends is perfect for sending beautiful bouquets for those who live far away, since they ship directly to the recipient's door.

The Beast Mini Blender

This super-effective, high-power portable blender is the perfect size for a dorm room or small apartment, plus it's very aesthetically-pleasing even if it's just sitting on the shelf. It comes equipped with a screw-on lid and straw, too, so your grad can take it on walks and in the car.

Béis The Sport Backpack

Perfect for grads on the go, this bag can hold their water bottle, phone, wallet and so much more when they're trekking across campus.

Loop Quiet Equinox Earplugs

These design-forward earplugs are multipurpose – they block out extra noise for study sessions and sleep time, or even loud parties and concerts! Your grad will appreciate that they come with an easy-to-carry case for keeping them on-hand in unforeseen, noisy situations.

Crush Your Goals Inner Truth Affirmations Deck

For an extra dose of motivation, this 40-count deck of cards will keep them going when times get tough!

Keurig K-Mini Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker

Coffee will always be a part of any new grad's life. Keep 'em caffeinated with this convenient coffee maker that's compatible with K-Cups for everyday ease.

Hoka Clifton 9 Sneakers

Hokas are undoubtedly the cool girl of running shoes, and they will definitely make your grad hit the pavement smiling, no matter if they're stepping foot on their college campus for the first time or making big moves in a new city.

Great Jones The Starting Lineup

This trio of cookware is such a stylish way to give your recipient's post-grad kitchen an upgrade. All three pieces are oven-safe and dishwasher-friendly to make cleanup a breeze.

Find all of the greatest gifts with Brit + Co!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

Avoiding Your Next Haircut? Don’t Make The Same Mistakes As Me

I have such a love/hate relationship with haircuts. While I love the feeling of a fresh look as much as the next girl, I hate having to spend $100+ for a simple cut and blow dry session. During my recent trim, I talked with my hairdresser, Jack Rehak of Jack’s Hair Design in Hinsdale, Illinois, about ways to keep a haircut looking new and best practices for keeping hair healthy. Here's what he had to say!

Here's How Often You Should Cut Your Hair, According To Professionals

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

I’ll admit it — it had been eight months since my last haircut. My hair had lost its shape, my layers were nowhere to be found, and my ends were begging for mercy. Life got busy over the last few months and I was neglecting my haircare like never before.

My hairdresser could immediately see that I was beyond due for a cut and said I needed to get more taken off than I was hoping. I was definitely disappointed — I'd been working on growing out my hair for a while now, and it just felt like my hard work had completely gone to waste. He explained that getting consistent haircuts is the key to growing out healthy and strong hair, rather than letting it grow and grow until it eventually breaks. So let's dig into the top three things you can do to avoid this scenario!

1. Just Get The Dang Haircut

Photo by RDNE Stock project/PEXELS

Also avoiding a haircut like I was? You might want to schedule one at your nearest salon. Like my stylist said, when you wait too long between trims like I did, you risk your hair becoming heavy, dull, and lifeless. When the hair is dry or even dead, it’s nearly impossible for it to hold a curl or style, essentially collapsing on you and taking on more and more heat damage all the while. I know the pain of spending time on a blowout only for it to fall minutes later — it’s the worst.

According to Jack, getting a haircut every 10-12 weeks is the best time frame or your ends will pay the price. Between blow-drying, curling, straightening, sun, and weather, our ends get dry and start to break without the proper care. Getting consistent haircuts allows hair to bounce back, shine, and perform the way we want in a healthy way.

2. Leave-In Conditioners Are Your Friend

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

His top piece of advice to keep your hair looking and feeling hydrated between trims? Invest in conditioning treatments. Jack swears by the Olaplex conditioning system, specifically the No 3 Hair Perfector. Made with patented OLAPLEX Bond Building Technology™, this conditioning treatment repairs and prevents damage in as little as three minutes. No 3 promises to reduce breakage and visibly strengthen hair, so it’s the perfect assistance to keep ends fresh between cuts. Another conditioning treatments I’ve used and loved for years is the Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask, which is designed to restore moisture, elasticity, and shine to dry hair.

3. Switch Up Your Shampoos

Photo by Karolina Grabowska/PEXELS

Switching shampoos frequently is a pretty hot tip that I honestly hadn't thought of. Our hair gets used to the same products and grows tired of them, resulting in lackluster locks. Jack’s advice is to switch brands after finishing every bottle of shampoo to bring life back to your hair. Have two brands that you’re loyal to? Even switching back and forth between them after every bottle should make a big difference in your hair. I’m a huge fan of the R+Co Dallas Biotin Thickening Shampoo, which makes my hair look thick and full, as well as the Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo, which is so hydrating and gives so much shine.

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

In the end, navigating your back-and-forth relationship with haircuts often feels like a rollercoaster ride between wanting that fresh look and cringing at the receipt. Luckily, by using conditioning treatments and switching up your products,, you can keep your locks healthy, shiny, and full of life between trims. But take a newly learned lesson out of my book: don't let your ends pay the price for procrastination and just book the haircut.

If you need some more hair inspo and advice, be sure to sign up for our weekly email newsletter!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Header image via Nataliya Vaitkevich/PEXELS

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20 Nifty Gifts To Give Your Step Mom This Mother’s Day

With Mother's Day around the corner, it's time to celebrate moms of all kinds, and step moms deserve some special recognition, too! If you're grappling with finding the perfect gift that expresses your love and gratitude for your step mom, these 20 gifts are the way to go. This curated list of thoughtful step mom gifts for Mother's Day will get you going on a gifting kick and make any step mom's heart swell with joy and appreciation. 💓

Rinna Beauty Larger Than Life Lip Plumping Oil

The glossiness of this lip oil alone will feel like a total gift! One swipe using the soft, sizable wand delivers a sheer tint of color, all while encouraging plumpness and moisture with its peptide formulation.

The Larger Than Life Lip Plumping Oil from Rinna Beauty comes in 5 other shades for $24 on Amazon.

Anthropologie Faye Planter

For the step mom with an undeniable green thumb, this decorative purple planter from Anthropologie makes repotting process super fun! Dotted in adorable outdoor creature and plant motifs, the pot is not only practical, but looks good, too. It measures about 8 inches in diameter to fit a variety of small house plants.

The Faye Planter is currently on sale for $31 (was $44) for a limited time.

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Cotton Checkered Throw

She's gonna want to live in this cozy throw blanket 24/7. It's crafted from a blend of Barefoot Dreams' CozyChic material and a light cotton for added breathability. The light, neutral checkered pattern makes it the perfect match for any space!

This stylish throw, made to last a lifetime, goes for $148 from Barefoot Dreams.

DedCool Room & Linen Spray

Think of this spray as an instant refresh for any bedroom, bathroom, or living room, supplying a saturated scent of bergamot, vanilla, and amber. It's also compatible to spritz on sheets, blankets, and pillows to create a soothing atmosphere every time your step mom comes home!

The DedCool Room & Linen Spray comes in two other scents for $40.

Compartés Mother's Day Chocolate Flowers 20-Piece Truffle Gift Box

When all your other gift ideas fail, there's nothing wrong with chocolate! This truffle box is perfectly elevated to give as a standalone gift – it's impressively decorated and seamlessly packaged for a memorable Mother's Day treat. Some of the spring-inspired flavors included are: raspberry rose, lavender, poppy seed, and passionfruit.

The Mother's Day Chocolate Flowers gift box is $60 and comes with 20 gourmet truffles.

Fig.1 Ceramide Moisturizer

This moisturizer delivers 24-hour hydration with a dense formula of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalane, and glycerin. It has a lightweight yet creamy feel, perfect for slathering on under SPF and makeup. Your step mom's skin will absolutely soak this clinically-proven cream up, and she'll be feeling like a new woman every single time she puts it on!

The Fig.1 Ceramide Moisturizer goes for $32 and is also refillable once it's fully used up.

Little Secret Round Sunglasses

Keep her lookin' so cool with a pair of trendy sunnies! This timeless style from Free People channels the 90's and makes for chic everyday eyewear with any outfit.

The Little Secret Round Sunglasses are shoppable in 5 other colors for $30.

The Pioneer Woman 3-Piece Floral Check Ceramic Lidded Bowl Set

Your step mom's serving, baking, and cooking projects just got such a stylish upgrade! This trio of checkered ceramic bowls designed by The Pioneer Woman make every dish look stunning, plus each one comes equipped with a decorative wooden lid for convenient storage.

This 3-piece bowl set goes for $33 at Walmart.

Sand + Fog Pistachio Dream Eau De Parfum Oil

This perfume oil can be used sparingly – meaning it'll last a long time – and delivers delicious notes of pistachio, vanilla, brown sugar, and cream to make step mom smell like a total treat. She won't want to go a day without putting some on!

This perfume is $13 at Marshall's.

Versed Total Package SPF 30 Body Lotion

This body lotion is really a 2-in-1 deal: hydrating and protective against the sun. It's packed with SPF 30 to give the skin a light shield against harmful UV rays, all while replenishing moisture with a delightfully-smelling mix of cupuaçu butter and grapeseed oil. It's not sticky or oily at all!

The Versed Total Package body lotion is $20 at Target.

Maeve Buckle Slide Sandals

These trendy slip-on sandals from Maeve are the epitome of cool girl style for summertime. Your step mom will be stepping out looking so good with these as a gift! The upper is made from durable leather, while the sole is a comfortable rubber material to withstand walking.

The Maeve Buckle Slide Sandals are shoppable in 4 other colors and are on sale for $104 (was $130) for a limited time.

Chamberlain Coffee Strawberry Matcha Latte Mix

Switch up her morning routine with this deliciously sweet matcha mix from Chamberlain Coffee! It's earthy, fruity, and made with oat milk for otherworldly creaminess. All it requires is some hot water, a good froth, and from there, your step mom can customize her sip with more milk or creamer.

This drink mix goes for $19 at Target.

L.L. Bean Open-Top Boat and Tote

This classic tote bag from L.L. Bean is the perfect vehicle for carrying work essentials, groceries, clothing, and more! It can be ordered in small, medium, large, or extra-large sizes, with the option for short or long straps.

This bag comes in 11 other colors. The small size is $30 and the extra-large is $45.

Ban.do Oven Mitt Pot Holder Set

For the step mom that loves all things colorful, this oven mitt + pot holder set will bring some joy into her kitchen set-up. Both are crafted from cotton with quilted stitching and feature small loops for easy hanging.

The duo is shoppable for $30 from Ban.do.

Auburn Home 3-Piece Glass Taper Candle Holders

These funky candle holders can go together as a set, or spread out around the house for a unique touch. Bundle them with some taper candles to complete the gift!

This colorful trio goes for $25 at Marshall's.

Verloop Raffia Phone Sling

Any on-the-go step mom will appreciate this convenient phone sling for its carrying capabilities, but it's also supremely stylish! The bright colorway is summertime's perfect match, so she can take it along for vacations and outdoor outings alike. The thin shoulder strap is adjustable in length so she can find the best fit for her needs.

The Verloop Raffia Phone Sling is shoppable in three other colors for $38.

Osea Bestsellers Bodycare Set

Gift sets are always a good bet if you're stuck on what to get your step mom for Mother's Day. This luxe 4-piece set from Osea comes complete with body butter, body oil, body balm, and body scrub (all inside a cute zip bag) so she can treat herself to a full-on spa day right at home!

The Osea Bestsellers Bodycare Set is $52 (a $78 value).

UrbanStems The Parade Bouquet

Flowers are welcome any time of year, but a gorgeous bouquet like this one is so fitting for Mother's Day. With UrbanStems, you can select a specific delivery date, and your step mom will receive a fresh grouping, ready to display at home!

The Parade Bouquet is $60, with the option to add a vase for $15+.

Material Kitchen The Cloud Pitcher

Whether it's used for a batched cocktail or a big serving of iced coffee, this stylish glass pitcher from Material Kitchen is a statement piece to be reckoned with. The glass is surprisingly light for transport, and it's dishwasher-safe for added convenience after the fact!

The Cloud Pitcher comes in three other colors for $95.

Ban.do Meal Planner

This meal planner pad is *the* way to keep track of what she'll make and when she's gonna eat it. It has three lines for each day of the week, plus a roomy list for ingredients she may be missing.

This meal planner is $15 from Ban.do and has 50 sheets.

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Image via brands.

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