African-inspired Wedding Inspiration Board with Boho + Tribal Touches

We’re back with our series on wedding inspiration for an African-inspired theme! After the gorgeous wedding invitations we featured, we now present an inspiration board showcasing the signature look and feel of this theme—whether you’ll actually be flying off on a fabulous destination wedding in Kenya or recreating the ambiance at your ceremony and reception right where you are. The styling elements all revolve around that distinct African mystique, which will carry through the rest of this fascinating wedding series. So, it’s a fitting place to start! (*this post contains affiliate links)

African-inspired Wedding Inspiration Board

You need only look to the vast African plains and deserts for the colors, textures, and details for this theme. You’ll notice boho and tribal-inspired elements that work in beautifully, too.

It all begins with a color palette and natural textures taken from the wilds of Africa—sand, earth, stone, wood, bone, animal hide, and lush foliage. Add to these the tribal patterns so iconic of African art and crafts, plus outdoor accents and implements for that rugged safari vibe.

You’ll see how all these can be incorporated in different amazing ways in the ceremony and reception. First, a striking wedding invitation suite (1 – from Sail and Swan) to establish the theme. Then, a gorgeous bridal ensemble (2 – by Shifting Sands African Couture, via Ebontu) that combines modern styling with traditional fabrics, beadwork and embroidery; complemented by chic ombre silk satin gowns (3 – Savana gown, by Limor Rosen) for the bridesmaids.

The wedding cake (4 – by Sugarcraft by Soni) can be a dramatic statement piece, featuring masks, quills, pottery, and giraffe and zebra skins. While large wooden tribal masks (5 – via Wayfair) would make a huge impact as backdrops for the welcome table, the food buffet, or the beverage bar.

For the tablescape styling, use key elements to capture the African look—such as the centerpiece, the table linens, the china and glassware, and even the menu cards (6 – by Bellenza). And speaking of menus, take guests on an adventure through African cuisine that is so incredibly rich and varied—from appetizers, soup, salad, and main dishes (7 – North African chicken stew, via Bed Bath and Beyond), all the way to desserts. While for your wedding signature drink, consider a classic Amarula on Ice cocktail (8 – via Amarula.com).

Then, as the occasion comes to a close, extend the theme to edible wedding favors like the popular Malawian sweet potato cookies, called mbatata (9 – recipe from Curious Cuisiniere). And as an extra sweet send-off, package these treats in leopard print paper bags (10 – via Amazon).

There’s more to come in this series on African Wedding Inspiration. So do keep visiting!