Things you need to know before planning a tipi wedding.
TIPI WEDDING GUIDE
Hey there, I’m Paul, and I’m excited to share a personal insight into tipi weddings. If you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s as unique as you and your story, then you’re in the right place.
Tipi weddings are becoming all the rage, especially among free-spirited couples who want something different from the traditional ballroom setting. Let’s dive into the magic of tipi weddings and why they might be the perfect choice for your big day.
What is a Tipi Wedding?
Tipis, originally used by Native American tribes, have been reimagined for modern weddings to create a cozy, intimate, and utterly magical atmosphere. They’re not just tents; they’re a blank canvas for epic wedding celebrations.
Tipi weddings are on the rise, especially among couples who crave an authentic and memorable experience. And honestly, what’s more memorable than dancing under the stars in a beautifully lit tipi?
I remember photographing a stunning tipi wedding in Scotland last summer. The couple wanted a boho-chic vibe with lots of personal touches. From the fairy lights twinkling overhead to the eclectic mix of vintage furniture, it was a photographer’s paradise. Every moment was so genuine and full of emotion—it’s these kinds of weddings that remind me why I love what I do.
Benefits of Choosing a Tipi Wedding
Unique Atmosphere
One of the biggest draws of a tipi wedding is the unique atmosphere.
There’s something undeniably magical about celebrating your love in a space that feels both intimate and grand. The towering structure of the tipi, with its rustic wooden poles and canvas walls, creates a cozy and inviting environment. Plus, if you go the DIY route, you get to design every inch of it to reflect your style.
Whether you’re going for a boho-chic look with macramé and wildflowers or a more sophisticated vibe with chandeliers and plush seating, a tipi can transform to match your vision.
Versatility
Tipis are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for any wedding theme or size. You can have one large tipi for a smaller, more intimate gathering or connect several tipis to accommodate a bigger crowd.
This flexibility allows you to create different zones within your wedding space, such as a dance floor, lounge area, and dining section. It’s like having multiple venues in one!
Connection with Nature
For nature lovers, a tipi wedding is a dream come true.
Being outdoors adds an extra layer of beauty and tranquility to your day. Imagine exchanging vows with a backdrop of rolling hills, lush forests, or a serene lakeside.
The natural setting not only provides stunning photo opportunities but also a sense of calm and freedom that’s hard to replicate indoors.
Planning your tipi wedding
Choosing the Right Location
The first step in planning a tipi wedding is finding the perfect outdoor space or ready-made wedding venue. For a DIY wedding, Look for a spot that resonates with you as a couple—maybe it’s a picturesque field, a secluded woodland, or even a garden. The great thing about tipis is that they can be set up almost anywhere, giving you the freedom to choose a location that feels special and unique to you.
Seasonal Considerations
While tipis are great for all seasons, you’ll need to plan accordingly. Summer weddings are popular for their warm weather and long days, but spring and autumn can also be beautiful with the right preparations. If you’re planning a winter wedding, make sure to have heating options and cozy blankets for your guests. Always have a backup plan in case of inclement weather—a secondary shelter or a contingency plan to move indoors if necessary.
Note also, that some tipi venues will pack down the tents for the British winter, to avoid damage.
Permits and Logistics
Don’t forget the nitty-gritty details like permits and logistics. Depending on your chosen location, you might need special permissions or licenses. It’s also important to consider practical aspects like access to toilets, electricity, and parking for your guests at an outdoor wedding venue. Working with a professional wedding planner who has experience with tipi weddings can be a huge help in managing these details smoothly.
Tips for decorating your tipi wedding
BOHO-CHIC DECOR
When it comes to decorating your tipi, the possibilities are endless. For a boho-chic vibe, think lots of greenery, wildflowers, and eclectic touches. Rugs, cushions, and low tables can create a relaxed, lounge-like atmosphere. Add macramé hangings, dreamcatchers, and lanterns to enhance the bohemian feel.
LIGHTING
Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood for your tipi wedding. Fairy lights, string lights, and lanterns can create a warm, magical glow as the sun sets over your tipi wedding venue. Consider adding a few chandeliers or hanging lanterns for a touch of elegance. Don’t forget the outside too—pathway lights and outdoor lanterns can make the entire area look enchanting.
PERSONAL TOUCHES
Incorporate personal elements to make your wedding truly unique. Maybe it’s photos of your journey together, handmade decorations, or even a special area dedicated to your favorite hobbies. Personal touches not only make the day more special for you but also give your guests a glimpse into your love story.
IMPORTANCE OF PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY
A tipi wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and capturing the essence of the wedding is essential. A professional photographer ensures that every detail, emotion, and special moment is beautifully documented.
From the candid laughter to the tearful vows, a skilled photographer will preserve the magic of your wedding day in a way that’s timeless and heartfelt.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
When choosing a wedding photographer for your tipi wedding, look for someone who has experience with outdoor and tipi events.
They should have a portfolio that showcases their ability to work with natural light and capture the essence of the setting. It’s also important to find someone whose style matches your vision—whether that’s romantic, documentary, or a mix of both.
MY APPROACH
As someone passionate about countryside weddings, I bring a unique approach to capturing these special days. I focus on telling your love story through candid, authentic moments.
I’ll be there to capture the big moments like your first kiss as a married couple, as well as the small, intimate details that make your day uniquely yours. My goal is to create a visual narrative that you’ll cherish for
Most importantly, a photographer who is passionate about capturing the beauty of your wedding day.
Real-Life Tipi Wedding Stories
Let’s take a walk down memory lane and look at a couple of real-life tipi weddings I’ve had the honor of photographing. These stories showcase the unique charm and personal touches that make each tipi wedding unforgettable.
1: MAISIE & NATHANS BOHO WEDDING IN YORKSHIRE
Maisie and Nathan wanted a wedding that reflected their love for nature and their bohemian spirit. They chose Skipbridge Country Weddings as their wedding venue.
One of the most magical parts of the day was dancing outdoors to a live singer, guitar strumming, with the tipi glowing softly in the background. The atmosphere was intimate and romantic, filled with laughter, love, and joy. Capturing their day was an absolute joy, and the photos turned out to be a beautiful reflection of their love story.
2: KIRSTY & GRAHAMS RUSTIC CELEBRATION IN LANCASHIRE
Kirsty & Graham opted for a more rustic feel, opting for the family-owned venue, Tipis at Riley Green. The decor was simple yet elegant, with wooden tables and mason jar centerpieces filled with fresh blooms. They personalized the space with photos of their adventures together and hand-painted signs directing guests to different areas like the dance floor and the bar.
The highlight of the evening was the live music, adding a touch of magic. The candid shots from their day are some of my favourites.
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
Here are a few words from happy couples who trusted me to capture their tipi weddings:
“oh my gosh, these are INCREDIBLE. I love love them. Thank you so much”
“I’m not exaggerating when I say that asking Paul to be our wedding photographer was one of the best decisions we made in planning our wedding”
Exclusive Use Tipi Venues
Here are some of the top tipi wedding venues across the UK, each offering unique features and stunning settings for your special day:
Sherwood Glade offers a magical woodland setting within Sherwood Forest, combining the rustic charm of a barn with the natural beauty of the forest.
This venue features an enchanting barn, surrounded by tall trees and lush greenery, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere. The peaceful and secluded location is perfect for couples seeking a unique and intimate wedding experience.
Tipis at Riley Green is a stunning venue located in the heart of Lancashire, offering a picturesque and serene setting for your wedding. The venue is surrounded by lush greenery and rolling countryside, providing a tranquil backdrop for your tipi setup.
With a focus on creating bespoke and memorable experiences, Tipis at Riley Green offers flexibility in decoration and layout, ensuring your wedding is unique and personal.
Skipbridge Country Weddings is a charming and rustic venue situated in North Yorkshire.
The venue offers beautiful countryside views, a variety of outdoor spaces, and a dedicated area for tipi setups. The family-run farm provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with options to include animals such as alpacas and donkeys in your celebration.
The relaxed and friendly environment makes it an ideal choice for a laid-back and memorable wedding.
Elms Meadow Tipi Weddings, located in the beautiful Lincolnshire countryside, offers a serene and picturesque setting for your special day.
The venue features expansive meadows, a tranquil pond, and mature trees, creating a natural and enchanting backdrop for your tipi wedding.
With a focus on sustainability and eco-friendly practices, Elms Meadow allows you to celebrate your love in harmony with nature.
The Orchard at Munsley is a stunning wedding venue nestled in the Herefordshire countryside. This venue offers a beautiful orchard setting, perfect for a romantic and intimate tipi wedding.
The lush greenery and blooming fruit trees provide a picturesque and idyllic backdrop, while the friendly and dedicated team ensures every detail is taken care of. The Orchard at Munsley is ideal for couples looking for a charming and natural setting for their special day.
Elmbridge Farm in Worcestershire is a delightful countryside venue that provides a relaxed and rustic setting for your wedding. The farm features rolling fields, serene lakes, and plenty of space for a tipi setup.
The natural beauty of the farm, combined with its charming rural vibe, creates an inviting and warm atmosphere. Elmbridge Farm is perfect for couples looking for a laid-back yet picturesque location to celebrate their love.
FAQ SECTION: ANSWERING COMMON WEDDING QUESTIONS
Q1: What is a cabin wedding?
A cabin wedding is a romantic and intimate celebration held in a rustic cabin setting. These weddings typically take place in picturesque locations like forests, mountains, or lakesides, offering a cozy, natural atmosphere. Cabins provide a charming, homey vibe, often featuring wooden interiors, fireplaces, and scenic views, making them perfect for couples who love the outdoors and want a relaxed, intimate wedding. They can be ideal for smaller gatherings but can also accommodate larger groups depending on the size of the cabin and surrounding area for a cozy wedding day.
Q2: Can I get married in my garden?
Absolutely! Getting married in your garden can be a beautiful and personal choice. Garden weddings offer a private and familiar setting, allowing you to create a completely personalized and intimate ceremony. You’ll need to consider a few practical aspects for your tipi wedding venue, such as:
- Space: Ensure your garden can comfortably accommodate your guests.
- Weather: Have a contingency plan like a marquee or tent in case of bad weather.
- Permits: Check if you need any permits or licenses, especially if you plan to hire professional services or have a large number of guests.
- Facilities: Ensure there are adequate facilities for guests, including restrooms and parking.
- Decoration: Your garden can be decorated with flowers, lights, and personal touches to make it wedding-ready.
Q3: Can I hire a tipi for my wedding?
Yes, you can hire a tipi for your wedding! Many companies specialize in renting out tipis for events, including weddings. When hiring a tipi, consider the following:
- Size and Capacity: Choose a tipi size that fits your guest list comfortably. Tipis can be linked together to create larger spaces if needed.
- Setup and Take Down: Professional tipi rental companies usually handle the setup and dismantling, ensuring everything is secure and safe.
- Decor and Furnishings: Some companies offer decor packages, including lighting, flooring, and furniture. You can also add your own personal touches.
- Location: Ensure your chosen venue can accommodate a tipi. This includes checking the ground level, access for delivery vehicles, and space for setup.
- Weather Considerations: Tipis are generally weather-resistant, but you might want to discuss additional weatherproofing options with the rental company.
Bonus Content: Tips from a wedding planner
Of course, this planning guide has been written by me, a wedding photographer, from my perspective. I’ve also called on Beth at Rustic Lily Weddings to write some bonus tips.
Beth is a wedding planner specializing in rustic weddings (the clue is in the name) so should naturally be right at the top of your list if you’re looking for somebody to take on the heavy lifting when it comes to planning your tipi wedding.
Plan for all weathers
The likelihood is that if you’re planning a tipi wedding, your goal is to spend a lot of time outside in your stunning surroundings. Right? This means that you need to be prepared for all scenarios, from extreme heat to thunder. A tipi can lend itself to all weather outcomes whether you choose to have a super large opening in the heat, close the tipis down, or add clear frontage on a cold day. It is also important to think of your guests and keep them comfortable. Add a basket of snuggle blankets if it turns out to be a cooler day, or consider making handheld fans your wedding favors for hotter months.
Make it personal
With a tipi wedding, there is nothing you can’t do! Consider getting creative and really put your own stamp on your DIY wedding. Making your own favours or stationery, tasking family with making bunting, or even buying an old steel bath on Facebook Marketplace to fill with ice and booze. All the small elements that you can make truly unique to you as a couple, will have the biggest impact on your memories of the day. Tipis are a complete blank canvas, so all of your extras will stand out.
Have a wedding coordinator!
I’m yet to hear of a tipi wedding where the couple chose not to book wedding day management where they look back and say “I’m really glad we didn’t have a wedding coordinator”. That simply will not happen! Having someone in charge of your day to make sure that everything runs smoothly is key to any tipi wedding. Hiring a wedding planner on the day will allow you to step back and enjoy all of the hard work you have put in for the past 18 months, while we take care of all of your supplier arrivals and queries, guest questions, and smooth out any background issues. Have I said it loud enough yet? HIRE A WEDDING COORDINATOR!
