When you’re thinking about how to share your country event with friends and family, you might ask what actually gives a barn invitation that warm, true feeling—one that feels just right for your place, as is. Which details really work if you want your guests to know what’s ahead?
Frequently, your invitation acts as the first point of contact and/or the first thing people hold in their hands that sets the mood for your event. Invitations for these weddings often use natural, soft, or rough materials—kraft paper being a popular option—because that approach gives everything a strong link to barn wood and the outdoors. Sometimes, you’ll see small, special items tied on or slipped inside, like a flower, a touch of wild grass, or just a bit of simple string. Not something only looked at and thrown away, but often kept because it feels real and welcoming. When you start with touches like this, you help guests see what your country celebration is all about.
If you’re trying to decide on a design, what should you actually look for? Among the top choices for these weddings, you’ll often see styles like Saranac, Humbyrd, Millbrook, Douglas, or Alder, because each combines a natural look with a sense of ease and quiet style. Most people (about 62%) pick the portrait direction, which makes it possible for the wood feel, soft colors, or smaller leaf-like marks to show up right in the center.
A direct question comes up—does a photo ever help? For some people, a single image of themselves, the place, or a country view can add something personal, but it’s not required. Usually, just one photo (chosen by about 16%) is added, and using several together is pretty rare—only about one percent try this. A single photo and a lot of open space match the quiet feeling most people want for these invitations.
You might also wonder, should you pick details like a border, a plant circle, or a shiny accent? Around 7% try a box around the main words, which focuses everyone’s eyes, while options like plant circles or arch shapes are seen even less (just one percent). Using foil or shiny print is not common, since a country design usually calls for less, not more.
Timing really matters for a barn or outside event because such places tend to be busy, especially from late spring through summer. To help the process run well and feel less rushed, aim to get your invitations sent out between four and six months before your wedding. That way, you give yourself time to address, check, and send, staying well ahead of any surprise issue.
You want your invitations to truly show who you are and match what people will see when they arrive. When you use material, color, and ideas tied to the rest of your day, you shape the path for a smooth flow and/or a strong sense of place. Example: designs from Saranac or Humbyrd remain popular since they balance a country feel with useful, easy changes based on your needs.
Your invite, then, becomes the first part of your event’s story—a hint at what’s coming, given to the people you want to have close as you share your day in a truly country way.
From bohemian and botanical to minimalist and modern, there are gorgeous invitations of all styles on Zola.
Floral invitationsModern invitationsGreenery invitationsRustic invitationsWatercolor invitationsWhimsical invitationsCultural invitationsDestination invitationsBeach invitationsSummer invitationsWinter invitationsSpring invitationsElegant & Formal invitationsSimple & Minimalist invitationsTypography invitationsClassic & Traditional invitationsMonogram invitationsBoho invitationsMountains invitationsVintage & Retro invitationsMaximalist invitationsNautical invitationsBarn & Country invitationsBorder invitationsGeometric invitationsFall & Autumn invitations
Whether you're going for classic white or a bright array of hues, Zola has invitations of every color to match your wedding theme.
Multi invitationsBlue invitationsDusty Blue invitationsRoyal Blue invitationsNavy invitationsBlack invitationsRed invitationsBurgundy invitationsWhite invitationsPurple invitationsLavender invitationsPlum invitationsPink invitationsRose invitationsDusty Rose invitationsCoral invitationsPeach invitationsGreen invitationsEmerald Green invitationsTeal invitationsOrange invitationsYellow invitationsGrey invitationsBrown invitationsOff White invitations
From traditional square invitations to fancy arches, Zola has a variety of card shapes to choose from.
Standard invitationsRounded invitationsScalloped invitationsHalf-arch invitationsArch invitationsOval invitationsTicket invitationsDiamond invitations
With so many features and finishes available, choosing invitations can seem daunting. Narrow your search by combining your favorite design options.
Foil invitationsLetterpress invitationsReception-only invitationsPhoto invitationsInvitations without photosPortrait invitationsLandscape invitations