Planning a wedding that captures the charm of Texas and the magic of live country music? If you’re tying the knot in Austin, there’s no better way to celebrate than with a country-themed wedding reception. From rustic venues in the Hill Country to lively dance floors downtown, Austin has everything you need to pull off a celebration your guests will never forget.
Here’s your step-by-step guide to planning the perfect country-style wedding reception in Austin — boots, bolo ties, and all.
1. Pick a Venue That Brings the Country Vibes
Austin is packed with venues that are perfect for a rustic wedding, whether you’re looking for a barn, a ranch, or a spot with sweeping Hill Country views.
Popular Austin wedding venues for a country theme:
- Mae’s Ridge in Johnson City – a modern barn venue with indoor/outdoor space
- The Addison Grove – elegant yet country-chic, just 20 minutes from downtown
- Pecan Springs Ranch – a secluded gem with oak trees and Hill Country charm
- Star Hill Ranch – an old Western town replica turned wedding venue
- Vista West Ranch – dreamy, twinkle-lit, and full of country character
Look for a space with both open-air areas and indoor backup, just in case that unpredictable Texas weather rolls in.
2. Dress for the Occasion (and the Dance Floor)
Austin weddings tend to lean relaxed and creative — it’s a city where cowboy boots at a black-tie event don’t raise eyebrows.
Wedding attire ideas with a country twist:
- Brides: Lace dresses, denim jackets, boots under the gown
- Grooms: Western-cut suits, bolo ties, cowboy hats
- Guests: Let them know the vibe — “Austin formal: boots welcome!”
Comfort meets style in a country-themed wedding, and you’ll thank yourself later when it’s time to dance.
3. Add Texas Flavor to Your Decor
Austin couples love to mix rustic charm with personal flair. Lean into materials like wood, burlap, and galvanized steel to create a warm, welcoming reception space.
Ideas to bring your decor together:
- Mason jar florals with wildflowers native to Central Texas
- String lights and Edison bulbs over the dance floor
- Wooden signage with fun sayings (“Boots, Beer, & Boogie”)
- Whiskey barrel cocktail tables and a neon sign behind the bar
DIY elements are a hit in Austin — don’t be afraid to personalize every detail.
4. Serve Up Some Good Ol’ Texas Grub
No country-themed wedding in Austin is complete without killer food. Whether you’re hiring a food truck or a full-service caterer, your menu should be as Texas as it gets.
Popular Austin wedding menu ideas:
- Slow-smoked brisket, ribs, and sausage
- Chicken-fried chicken with mashed potatoes
- Mac & cheese, street corn, and jalapeño cornbread
- Late-night snack? Go with Whataburger taquitos or breakfast tacos
Don’t forget local drinks — think Shiner Bock, Deep Eddy cocktails, and plenty of sweet tea.
5. Hire a Live Band That Knows Austin (and Knows How to Party)
Here’s where the reception goes from fun to unforgettable. Nothing beats a live band — especially when they know how to get a Texas crowd moving.
That’s where we come in:
All Hat No Cadillac, we’re a ‘90s country cover band based right here in Austin, and we’ve played weddings and private events all across Central Texas. Our setlist includes the best of Brooks & Dunn, Shania Twain, Garth Brooks, Alan Jackson — you name it.
We’re not just background music. We bring energy, nostalgia, and packed dance floors from the first note to the last.
Your first dance? We’ve got you covered.
Want to two-step under the stars? We’ll lead the way.
Need a big finish? We’ll close it out with a crowd favorite like “Friends in Low Places.”
If you’re planning a country-themed wedding in Austin, having a band that gets the city’s vibe is key. We don’t just show up and play — we bring the full Austin experience to your reception.
6. Plan a Reception Timeline That Flows
Even the most relaxed weddings need a little structure. Here’s a sample timeline we’ve seen work well for Austin receptions:
- 5:30 PM – Cocktail Hour (Live acoustic set on the lawn)
- 6:30 PM – Dinner (BBQ buffet under the pavilion)
- 7:15 PM – First Dance + Parent Dances
- 7:30 PM – Full Band Set & Open Dance Floor
- 9:00 PM – Cake Cutting / Late-night snack drop
- 10:30 PM – Last Song & Sparkler Exit
Of course, every wedding is different — we’ll work with you and your planner to fit the flow of your night.
7. Make It Uniquely Yours
A country wedding in Austin can be as laid-back or as polished as you want. Here are a few personal touches that we’ve seen couples love:
- Include your dog as a ring bearer or photo buddy
- Offer a boot shine station or custom bandanas as favors
- Feature a local artist painting the dance floor live
- Create a “Tipsy Two-Step” cocktail as your signature drink
Austin is all about creativity. Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on things.
Let’s Make Your Austin Country Wedding Unforgettable
If you’re planning a wedding in Austin and love the sound of ’90s country hits, a packed dance floor, and a band that knows how to read a Texas crowd — All Hat No Cadillac is ready to bring the party.
We’ve helped couples all over Austin create the perfect soundtrack to their big day, and we’d love to help you do the same.
Get in touch to check our availability → www.allhatnocadillac.com/contact
Let’s boot-scoot your big night into the best party of your life.