Western gothic party and wedding theme
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11 Western Gothic Party Ideas: Where Moody Meets Wild West

Western gothic party and wedding theme

Wedding and event trends inevitably follow the latest fashion and décor patterns — so it’s no surprise that western gothic weddings will be taking over 2024. This fusion party style pairs leather with cacti, suede with crimson blooms, and mountain landscapes with ultra-sultry hues. 

This hybrid style made our top 2024 unique party themes list — and it’s easy to see why. Western party themes have been trending for years, but now people planning events are looking for something different, whether that’s a gothic edge or moody softness. Keep reading to discover how to incorporate this new trend into your own celebration — with the help of a skilled event planner, of course.

1. Sultry & Soft

photographer: Cedar & Pine Events | event planner: Table 6 Productions – Colorado | florist: Olive & Poppy | venue: Devil’s Thumb Ranch

Table 6 Productions – Colorado planned this western goth mountain wedding with plenty of sultry touches. Purple wisteria cascaded down a log ceremonial backdrop, while creamy fringe softened the rustic venue space. Make sure you see why this event made our “24 Unique Party Themes” list.

2. A Moody Wild West

Wild West Holiday Party at City View at Metreon in San Francisco, California
photo courtesy of caterer: Foxtail Catering & Events | event planner: Foxtail Catering & Events | flowers: Duet Botanical Atelier | venue: City View at Metreon | bar: Tonic Beverage Catering

Crimson uplighting and rich velvets brought a moody vibe to this western-themed holiday party. Plus, traditional western bites like Texas-style brisket by Foxtail Catering & Events and curated cocktails in cow-print mugs by Tonic Beverage Catering gave guests energy to ride the mechanical bull on-site.

3. In the Mood[y] for a Western Bach

photographer: Kelly Brown Photography | event planner: Mae and Co Creative | venue: Amangiri | rentals: Casa De Perrin | pavilion structure: Hensley Event Resources

This three-day bachelorette weekend may have taken place deep in the desert, but Casa De Perrin made sure the setting was ultra luxurious. Guests enjoyed horseback riding, a disco-glam tablescape in moody black and violet hues, and sumptuous sips like espresso martinis.

4. Americana Wedding Theme

Step Into This Modern Americana Wedding at Patak Ranch - Snowmass, Colorado
photographer: Cedar & Pine Events | planning & design: paper forest design | design & floral: Lalé Florals | venue: Patak Ranch – Snowmass, Colorado

It’s hard to improve on these breathtaking Colorado views, but Lalé Florals did just that with a zigzag aisle intermittently framed with moody blooms. See how the bride’s dress captured a western gothic vibe with rustic lace that transitioned to a sumptuous ruffle.

5. A Cowboy’s Brunch in Black Hues

photographer: Shaimaa Photography | event planner: Events by Picnics In The City

This western-themed adult birthday party, planned by Events by Picnics In The City, impressed guests with black serpentine tablescapes and cowboy-branded bites. We especially love how a black silk bloom brought a gothic touch to this unique birthday cake.

6. Velvety Wedding Vibes

photographer: Alexis May Photo | event planner: Infinity Hospitality | venue: The Bell Tower

Crimson velvet sofas, ruby tail flower bouquets, and moody candlelight remind us that a gothic style can still be luxurious — even when the groom wears a cowboy hat. We especially love how event planner Infinity Hospitality used bright florals to pop against the austere grandeur of The Bell Tower.

7. Branches & Brambles

western gothic texas dinner party
photographer: Black Rose Photography | event planner: Little Coterie

This isn’t your typical dinner party. Little Coterie set the western scene with bare wicker branch décor, moody sips with wisps and brambles, and just enough candlelight to enjoy the evening darkness.

8. The Desert Gets Gothic

Beautifully Moody and Rustic Wedding The Venue at Chilleens in Black Canyon City, Arizona
photographer: AZ Wed Pics LLC | design & floral: Leapin Lilys | venue: The Venue at Chilleens

The Venue at Chilleens offered a stunning desert backdrop for this stylish gothic wedding. We are swooning over the bride’s violet wedding dress and lush crimson bouquet. See how the wedding cake was on theme with dark frosting and sumptuous blooms.

9. Leather, Lace & Cacti

A&E's 35th Rodeo Disco Renaissance at River Ranch at Texas Horse Park in
photographer: JTaylor Studios | design & floral: RosesRntRed Modern Events | venue: River Ranch at Texas Horse Park

What happens when you mix cacti, leather, fringe, and plenty of sparkle? How about a rodeo disco birthday party planned by RosesRntRed Modern Events. Guests enjoyed bull riding, temporary tattoos, and unique photo ops that reimagined western style.

10. Leaning into a Western Gothic Lounge

Delight in the Swanky Ambience of this Denim & Diamonds Networking After Party for the 2023 Health Sciences Conference at the Bridge Building
photographer: Sabrina Englehart | event planner: Infinity Hospitality | floral design: The Florista | venue: The Bridge Building

Infinity Hospitality planned this chic networking after-party at The Bridge Building with an attention to detail. Cow-print seating met crimson linen and darker accent hues for a western look with just a hint of gothic.

11. Sweet on a Western Gothic Style

Gorgeous Outdoor Wedding at Gardener Ranch Carmel Valley, California
photographer: Brandon Scott | event planner: Pocketful Of Plans | design & floral: Seascape Flowers | venue: Gardener Ranch & Carmel Mission

Pocketful Of Plans made sure this wedding was as sweet as can be with a western gothic theme that wowed with overarching branch décor, lush floral centerpieces, and themed outfit change for the outdoor reception.

Make sure to get a closer look at the moody dessert spread with lavish floral accents.


People Also Ask…

Where can I find an event planner?

A great party starts with a skilled event planner. Whether you are hosting a wedding, corporate event, gala, or milestone celebration, a full-scale planner will assist you with every step of the planning process — from creating mood boards and finalizing your vendor list to coordinating your timeline and helping with post event cleanup. 

Head to PartySlate’s curated directory to find a top event planner near you. Use the filters to narrow down your search by location, services, event type, and more. Once you’ve set your filters, look for the “featured” tags to learn more about PartySlate’s top picks. You can even click into a PartySlate profile to see real examples of their work. If you see a particular planner that you like, make sure to use their profile or the directory page to send an inquiry.

Where can I find a party venue?

Once you’ve chosen your planner, it’s time to finalize your party venue. Use PartySlate’s curated venue directory to find your ideal event space. Filter by location, event type, guest count, and amenities — then look for the “featured” tags to discover PartySlate’s top recommendations. If you see a venue you like, make sure to check out their PartySlate profile and send an inquiry there or through the directory. 

Where can I find more party inspiration?

The content team at PartySlate pours over thousands of real event photos every day to discover the latest party trends — as well as the most unique party themes. Click our guides below to get a head start on planning a memorable (and Instagrammable) celebration.