
The Ultimate Boho Wedding Checklist From Rugs to Ruffles

Boho brides, assemble! Whether you're tying the knot barefoot on the banks of Lake Chivero, under the baobabs in Botswana, or at a bush lodge with zebra witnesses, the boho wedding dream is all about vibe over fuss. Think effortless style, earthy tones, wild florals, and that magical mix of laid-back meets luxe.
So, we’ve rounded up your ultimate Boho Wedding Checklist — from rugs to ruffles, and everything in between.
1. The Setting: Choose Your Boho Playground
Your venue sets the tone. For max boho bliss, opt for:
🍃 Safari lodges (hello Hwange or Kruger vibes)
🏞️ Garden venues with lots of trees and open space
🏝️ Beachfront hideaways in Mozambique or Mauritius
🏕️ Homestead lawns or backyard affairs (DIY for the win!)
Pro Tip: Use our Plan My Wedding vendor search to filter venues by vibe – from bush to beachfront.
2. The Aisle: Make a Statement
It’s not just where you walk — it’s your runway moment.
Persian rugs (locally sourced from Zim markets? Even better.)
Woven grass mats or shweshwe fabric runners
Pampas grass, dried proteas, and hanging macramé
Triangle arches, floral hoops, or even cow horn decor for cultural crossover
3. The Decor: Layered, Textured, Local
This is where you shine, honey.
Raw wood tables + linen runners
Fringed placemats + dried floral centrepieces
Macramé chair backs + handwoven fans
Fairy lights, festoons, and candle clusters in recycled jars
Bonus: Add Afro-chic touches like mbira instruments, woven baskets, or lobola artefacts.
4. The Fashion: Floaty, Flirty, Fabulous
Say yes to:
Flowing off-the-shoulder gowns
Earth-toned bridesmaids in mismatched styles
Flower crowns or beaded headpieces
Grooms in linen, prints, or even embroidered shirts
Diaspora tip: Shopping overseas? Look for ethical African designers doing global deliveries. Let’s keep it local even from afar.
5. The Feasting: Boho, but Make it Boujee
Your food stations need to be as vibey as your playlist:
Grazing boards with biltong, dried fruits & local cheeses
Food trucks (yes to chakalaka tacos and bunny chow sliders)
Vegan & vegetarian options (a must-have in 2025)
Naked cake with pressed florals or a donut wall for late-night snacking
6. The Extras: Your Signature Touches
Don’t forget those details that guests will actually remember:
Polaroid guestbook station
Tipi lounge areas with scatter cushions and kilim poufs
DIY spice mix favours or gin bottle bar
Afrofolk band or mbira player at sunset
7. The Tech: Capture It Creatively
Modern meets boho:
Audio guestbook (yes, even granny will love it)
360° video booth with dried flower backdrop
Drone footage of your ceremony under the mopani trees? Yes please.
✨ Final Thoughts
Planning a boho wedding in Southern Africa isn’t just about trends — it’s about soul. Let your day reflect who you are, where you're from, and the kind of joy you want to bottle forever.
Use our free Plan My Wedding checklist tool to track it all — and tag us using #BohoDreams or #HomesteadHearts so we can swoon with you!
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