Planning a Backyard Wedding

Marcy and Dermot's Wedding
Photo courtesy of mkPhoto

It's easy to understand why so many couples are drawn to the idea of having a backyard wedding. They can be incredibly charming and personal. But having a wedding at home is not the same thing as throwing together a barbeque with a few friends. There are several things you'll need to consider.

Don't be fooled into thinking a backyard wedding is cheap. While you'll definitely have the freedom to pick and choose your vendors and find prices that work for you, there are a lot of costs associated with a backyard wedding that you wouldn't necessarily have to deal with at other venues. Banquet Halls and country clubs typically have built in pricing for a number of features and services; your home doesn't. You'll need to rent everything from tents and tables to glassware and china. Don't forget the essentials like generators for power or portable bathrooms for guests. If your property needs some TLC you could find yourself shelling out for small renovations to key areas or landscaping to make your yard look its best. All of these costs can add up, so be sure to do your research and know what you're getting yourself into. 

Marcy and Dermot's Wedding
Photo courtesy of mkPhoto

Size is key. Is your backyard large enough to accommodate all of the family and friends you're hoping to celebrate with? It's one thing to have a cozy, intimate feel. It's another to be overcrowded. Do you have the space to create separate areas for your ceremony and reception? You'll need room for tables, chairs, bars, and an area for dancing. And don't forget about the staff. From the entertainment to the chefs and servers- they'll all need room to do their jobs. 

Then there are the matters of access and parking. Does your yard have its own entrance or will guests need to traipse through your house to get there? Where will they park? If you don't have enough room, consider getting permission from a local school, church, or business to use their parking facilities and have your guests shuttled from there.

You'll also need to take Mother Nature into account. Backyard weddings are exposed to elements from winds and rain to heat and cold and even mosquitoes or other pests. Outdoor events are not for everyone, so be sure you're willing to deal with these issues. You can't predict the weather, but you can certainly prepare for it in order to ensure everyone is comfortable regardless of the conditions.

Sarah and Mike's Wedding
Photo courtesy of Pravada Photography

A tent is a must, especially in the event of rain. Putting one up can be a big undertaking, so meet with a professional tent company early on to begin planning. They can come for a site visit to take measurements, make recommendations, and troubleshoot any issues that might need to be addressed. They'll be able to guide you through all of your tent, siding, and flooring options. Tents come in a variety of styles and sizes to accommodate your personal taste as well as your space. Sides can help block out less-than-desirable conditions like chilly winds or heavy rain. Flooring is a great way to make the ground more level and keep your guests from having to dance in the dirt and mud. Depending on the season and your budget, you may want to consider fans, air conditioning, or heaters. Your tent vendor can also help you design a floor plan and provide you with a timeline for installation and breakdown so you'll know how long it will take from start to finish. 

There are several other vendors you'll want to involve in the process. Obviously a wedding coordinator or planner is a great resource during the months leading up to the big day. He or she can help you navigate the world of backyard weddings and recommend plenty of great vendors with experience working outdoors. Your caterer should also see the property to determine what equipment and space is needed to create and serve the perfect meal for you and your guests. Lighting is essential not only to set the right mood under your tent, but to keep the walkways and prep areas well lit for guests and staff to get around safely. Sound is key for people to hear everything from your I Do's to the last song. All of these vendors will require power so make sure you're aware of how much they need and what it will take to provide it. 

Sarah and Mike's Wedding
Photo courtesy of Pravada Photography

Finally, follow all of the rules and file any necessary paperwork. Permits may be required for tents or parking and the site might need to be inspected by the fire department or other officials. Be mindful of any noise ordinances and give your neighbors fair warning to avoid complaints or visits from the police in the middle of the celebration. Don't forget to adhere to regulations regarding trash and arrange for any special pickups required after the event. Ask for copies of insurance documents from your vendors and find out exactly what your home owner's policy covers, because with so many people moving in and around your home at once, there's a good potential for damage. 

While all of these considerations probably seem a little overwhelming, don't be discouraged. With the proper planning and support, backyard weddings can be amazing. In the end, all of the effort will be worth it!

-Laura