With COVID-19 forcing so many weddings to be postponed and cancelled, many couples are now choosing to downsize. This is definitely understandable given the current situation in the world! Some couples are now planning to have a backyard wedding… but it can be tricky to figure out where to start!
Benefits of a Backyard Wedding
Of course, a formal venue is always a nice option for a wedding. However, there can be plenty of benefits to having a wedding in your (or a family member’s) backyard!
- Since your backyard is most likely smaller than a typical venue, you can have a smaller guest list. This is very appealing during a worldwide pandemic! Besides, the fewer guests that you have, the less money that you’ll have to spend on certain aspects, such as catering.
- If you’re looking to have pets be a part of your special day, then a backyard wedding is the perfect opportunity! Many venues don’t allow pets. Even if a venue does allow them, they are typically only allowed to be there for a certain amount of time.
- If you are a particularly nervous or anxious person, then getting married in a familiar place may help to ease some of that.
- A backyard wedding gives you the flexibility to choose any wedding date that you want. You won’t be limited to whatever a venue has available.
Getting Started
The first thing that you’ll need to do when planning a backyard wedding is to figure out logistics. This should definitely come before you figure out any decor, attire, etc.
Keep in mind that many brides look into a backyard wedding and then choose not to have one, because it actually ends up costing more than a traditional venue would. This is because you have to start from scratch entirely. That includes figuring out chairs, tables, bathrooms, and more.
Choosing a date
The success of your wedding in a backyard will depend on a few logistical things: the time of the year, the weather, and where you live. You’ll want to choose a date where you feel confident that the weather will be decent. Of course, it’s impossible to be 100 percent confident about this. But there are certain times of the year that you will know to stay away from. For example, if you live in a New England state, you’ll probably want to stay away from the freezing cold winter. If you live in Florida, you may want to steer clear of the sweltering hot summer months.
Other logistics
First, you should also double-check and see if you need a license to get married in your backyard. Some areas do require one!
Additionally, you’ll have to figure out power sources. You’ll have music, lighting, and more. Of course, extension cords might solve the problem, but they can also be a trip hazard. You may need a generator, too.
Once you figure all of that out, you’ll have to prep your yard for the big day! This includes getting rid of tree branches, weeds, and dead plants. Once you have a clean-slate, you should map out your seating and other areas of the wedding to give you a good idea of how everything will be laid out.
Another thing to keep in mind is wedding insurance! Many people don’t think about it for a backyard wedding, but it’s nice to be covered just in case.
Additional things to consider are notifying your neighbors and parking. These are important aspects that you might not think about right away!
Time for the fun part!
Once you have the logistics all figured out, now comes the fun! You can start to think about all of the special features and details that you want to have included in your wedding day. A basic theme, flowers, and decorations are all things that you’ll need to consider. Try to plan your backyard wedding like you would with any wedding venue.
Keep in mind — just because you’re having a backyard wedding does not mean that you don’t need a wedding planner! In fact, so much goes into planning a wedding in your backyard because you’re starting from scratch. So much more goes into planning a backyard wedding than most people initially think, so a wedding planner can be a huge help! Feel free to contact us here if you’re considering a backyard wedding.
Have a Back-Up Plan
It is so crucial to have a back-up plan for a backyard wedding. As we mentioned earlier, there is no way to accurately predict what the weather will be like. You’ll want to have a Plan B for inside your home in case bad weather pops up. If you are absolutely insistent on keeping the wedding outside, you should plan to reserve a tent that you can use in case of an emergency. You just never know!
In case of unseasonably hot weather, it’s a good idea to have plenty of fans available. If it’s cold, then heaters are definitely necessary. Besides, these things will give you a peace of mind and keep you from being too stressed out!
Timeline
Wedding planners are truly so helpful when it comes to creating your day-of timeline. Reach out to us for assistance — we have different packages available to help you out!
If you’re creating the timeline on your own, you need to ensure that you’re creating one that will work. Try to schedule the ceremony on the earlier side so that it doesn’t get dark before you say “I do.” You will also want to avoid too much downtime between the ceremony and reception, since there is no change in venues.
If at all possible, we recommend scheduling the majority of your photos before the ceremony. This will give you time to mingle with your guests after the ceremony! If that’s not possible, then consider adding a few yard games and activities to entertain your guests.
Lastly, depending on where you live, you may need to keep your neighbors in mind. If they live close, then it is considerate to keep them in mind. Try to set an end time to the party — and stick to it. You can always move the party to a local bar or other area afterward!
Decor and Inspiration
When planning an outdoor wedding, there will most likely be a lot of DIY happening! This can give you the freedom to create pretty much anything under the sun. Here are some ideas that can spark inspiration:
- Hang outdoor string lights to create a magical glow when the sun goes down
- Laminate some photos of you and your spouse to protect them from the weather, then display them from a fence or trees
- Get creative with seating by placing some vintage sofas and chairs around the yard
Having a backyard wedding means more than just saving some money and cutting down on your guest list. It also adds a bit of a sentimental value! You likely have a lot of special memories in the spot where you’ll be getting married. If it’s a newer house, then it’s a spot where you’re beginning years of memories that will be created!
If you need any more advice, do not hesitate to reach out to us at info@mooreandcoevents.com.