1. Host an Enchanting Outdoor Ceremony
Our expansive, open-air lawn offers a stunning location for your wedding ceremony. With towering trees and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, the outdoor setting creates a magical atmosphere for saying “I do.” Consider framing the ceremony space with a rustic wooden arch adorned with greenery and florals to complement the natural setting. Arrange seating to allow guests to enjoy the peaceful, scenic views, making the outdoor ceremony both personal and picturesque.
Pro Tip: Opt for seasonal flowers that enhance the colors of the surrounding environment and create a cohesive, natural look. Check out Blum Haus Fine Flowers for all your floral needs!
2. Plan a Cocktail Hour with Hill Country Views
Following your ceremony, transition seamlessly into cocktail hour. Guests can mingle and enjoy drinks while basking in the fresh country air. Set up high-top tables draped with linen, surrounded by twinkling string lights, to create a cozy and inviting space. You could even incorporate lawn games like cornhole or giant Jenga to keep the energy light and fun.
Pro Tip: Use local, fresh produce for a farm-to-table cocktail hour experience, including refreshing signature drinks that reflect the season. Bartenders and Dreams can create the perfect cocktail for your wedding day!
3. Create an Outdoor Reception Under the Stars
While The Ironwood Barn is a fantastic space for a rustic reception, why not take your celebration outdoors? Hosting your reception al fresco under a canopy of stars can be a truly magical experience. Set up long farm tables adorned with candles, wildflowers, and wooden accents for an elegant rustic vibe. Consider incorporating soft lighting, such as lanterns or hanging bistro lights, to create a warm and romantic atmosphere as the evening sets in.
Pro Tip: Rent a clear-topped tent for the reception area to protect your guests while still allowing them to enjoy the starry night sky.
4. Embrace Lawn Games and Interactive Spaces
One of the biggest perks of outdoor space is the opportunity to incorporate interactive elements into your celebration. Dedicate an area for lawn games or create a cozy fire pit where guests can relax, enjoy conversation, or even toast marshmallows. These casual additions keep the fun going throughout the evening, especially for guests who prefer to mingle away from the dance floor.
Pro Tip: Consider custom lawn game sets featuring your wedding date or initials to add a personal touch.
5. Capture Stunning Photos in Natural Light
Outdoor spaces offer the best lighting for wedding photos, and at Ironwood Barn, there’s no shortage of picturesque spots. Whether it’s the rolling hills, the rustic barn backdrop, or a sunset photo in the fields, the natural beauty of our venue will elevate your wedding album. Be sure to work with your photographer to capture golden hour shots for that dreamy, warm glow.
Pro Tip: Scout the venue with your photographer ahead of time to identify unique and unexpected spots for your couple’s portraits. Paula VM Photography knows where the best photos can be taken at The Ironwood Barn!
6. Take Advantage of the Weather
The Ironwood Barn at Von Erich Ranch is beautiful year-round, offering options for weddings in every season. Whether it’s a summer celebration with sunflowers blooming, a spring wedding amidst blossoming trees, or a fall gathering surrounded by rich autumn foliage, the outdoor spaces at our venue evolve with the seasons.
Pro Tip: If you’re hosting a summer wedding, consider offering shaded seating or parasols for your guests. For fall or winter weddings, warm blankets or outdoor heaters can keep everyone comfortable while enjoying the fresh air.
7. Plan an Outdoor Send-Off
End your wedding day with a grand finale by planning an outdoor send-off. From sparklers to lantern releases, our outdoor spaces are perfect for creating a dramatic and memorable exit. As your guests gather to send you off under the night sky, it will provide a beautiful ending to your special day.
Pro Tip: Work with your photographer to capture stunning send-off photos that will become cherished keepsakes. For some fun ideas check out Spark & Co. Events.
Final Thoughts
The outdoor spaces at The Ironwood Barn at Von Erich Ranch offer endless possibilities for a unique and personalized wedding celebration. From open-air ceremonies and cocktail hours to stunning sunset photos and receptions under the stars, our venue provides the perfect canvas for couples looking to embrace the beauty of nature. By utilizing these tips, you can make the most of our outdoor spaces and ensure that your wedding day is truly unforgettable.
Did you know…when you choose a locally owned wedding venue you are helping to develop and improve the local economy? It’s true, your locally owned wedding venues are small business owners who not only create hundreds of jobs for the local wedding industry every year, we actively support our local economy. Consider selecting a locally owned venue for your special day. Here's a shout out to our fellow locally owned wedding venues nationwide!
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