In our Instagram feeds last week, we were reminded by The Big Bang Theory‘s @kaleycuoco of her wedding one year ago to professional show jumper Karl Cook. It should come as no surprise that Cuoco, an active equestrian with an assortment of four-legged friends, chose to tie the knot on Cook’s family farm in Southern California. Photos from the occasion captured a feathered horseshoe arch, floral arrangement adorned stall doors, and an extended dining table down the barn’s center aisle. In one candid Insta post to which we can relate, Cuoco freshened up last-minute in the feed room.
These images prompted one half of OR to recall her own down-home nuptials, and the other half of OR to vow to formally (yet causally) entertain her stablemates more often post-hack. Whatever the reason (or for no reason at all), a party in a barn is a recipe for fun. Therefore, in the spirit of summer weddings, family reunions, and farm fêtes of all varieties, below we’ve compiled a short list of exceptional, rural venues across the country that enjoy getting down with O-P-P (other people’s parties). Book a barn-themed bash, or simply scroll through for inspiration, like we did.
The Wildflower Barn
Driftwood, Texas
Anything goes at this laid back venue, which promises to keep costs low with no hidden fees and an open vendor policy so that couples can splurge as they wish. If cookie cutter-free character is a must, this backdrop is for you!
Photo credit: Happy Day Media
HammerSky Vineyards
Paso Robles, California
Established in 2007, this winery sits on a 115-year old estate with views of rolling vines from a stately New England style whitewashed barn. The eclectic tasting room and renovated farmhouse complete the needs of a wine lovers’ wedding weekend.
Photo credit: HammerSky Vineyards
Stoneover Farm
Lenox, Massachusetts
“The farm is yours. There’s no curfew,” say the owners of Stoneover who host weddings in May, June, September, and early October. There is plenty of room for romping, and they encourage a procession of activities across the entire property—on the lawn, by the pond, in the barn, in the art gallery, in the main house, or even in the field across the street.
Photo credit: Mark Spooner Photography
J&D Farms
Gadsden, Alabama
Southern Living magazine named this Dutch-style barn one of the South’s most breathtaking venues. With options to celebrate beneath the orchard, in the main barn, or in the stables, the antique surroundings lend the perfect rustic vibe. They even offer a collection of reclaimed wood table and seating rentals.
Photo credit: J&D Farms
Brasada Ranch
Bend, Oregon
Treat guests to an idyllic western outpost with a view of the Cascade Mountains on this ranch’s iconic Trestle Bridge. Made of materials from Brasada’s original aqueduct, the dramatic structure can accommodate a cocktail reception at sunset or intimate dining under the stars.
Photo credit: Brasada Ranch
Rubies & Rust
Belle Plaine, Minnesota
The mismatched, vintage decor of this cathedral-like barn keep things casual and comfortable, enticing home-style food and bare feet on the dance floor. Where more is more, shabby has never looked so chic.
