Barn Weddings

Barns have long been places people not only worked together, but where they shared food, music, and good times. They're a fitting venue for a celebration among family and friends, easily accommodating a crowd. Like vineyards a few years back, barns are gaining popularity as an alternative wedding venue, which is good news for farms seeking supplementary sources of income.

There are now many websites and businesses that can help you locate barns rented specifically for special events including weddings. A great place to start is The Barn Journal, where you can browse barn listings by state. Event barns vary widely in size, and many may be too large for your needs. If you're not sure what size is right for you, professionals that rent barns for special events are a great resource. They can help you find the space that's right for the crowd you expect, large or small.

Critters, cow patties, and allergies to hay
Barns are a great choice for anyone interested in history, outdoorsy types, and closet hayseeds. How earthy your barn setting is depends on your budget. The barn of a family or friend is by far the cheapest way to go, but consider the work involved in prepping the space before committing yourself. There's likely lots of cleaning and hazard-removal involved, both inside the barn and out. Barns are full of surprise residents, like wasps and bats. There's also the expense and logistics of renting furniture to consider, not to talk you out of it. If you're a hearty soul with lots of help and up-to-date shots, it's a viable option.

The rental rates for properties that cater to special events range from $1,000 for a reception to $4,000 or more. This might seem like a lot for a rustic venue, but event barns rates are less than most banquet halls and many provide everything you need to accommodate a crowd. And they will likely have their critter population under control. With the casual environment setting the tone, you will probably find that you spend less overall on decorations, entertainment, even food and drink. Another factor to consider: the money you spend on your rental often goes to support small farms and the preservation of historic buildings.

Decorating on the cheap
Fields, fences, old buildings with peeling paint are photogenic on their own. Add dressed up people and you've got a recipe for great wedding photos. A farm setting makes for a great backdrop and a great guide when it comes to planning the details. Decorating the space can be lots of fun and easier than you might imagine--the great thing about a barn is that it doesn't take professional help to make it look significantly more formal than when you started. For more on barn weddings, including decorating, entertaining, and menu ideas, check out the Blue Collar Bride!

Photo: Palladian Barn at The Hill, Hudson, NY