Planning a Backyard Wedding? Here’s What You Can’t Forget!
Backyard weddings are intimate, personal, and full of charm. But while they may seem like a simple, laid-back option, there’s a lot that goes into pulling off the perfect backyard celebration. From logistics to vendor coordination, it’s important to remember that planning a wedding outside a traditional venue comes with its own set of challenges. But don’t worry—here’s a breakdown of the most important things to remember to ensure your backyard wedding is a beautiful, stress-free success!
TLDR; the key points being:
Hiring a wedding planner is essential for managing the details of a backyard wedding.
Choose your vendor team carefully, relying on your planner's expertise.
Don't overlook rentals for things like tents, tables, and restrooms.
Consider guest logistics, including parking, lodging, and bathrooms.
Let’s get into it…
1. Hire a Wedding Planner (Seriously, Do It!)
Even for the most organized of couples, a backyard wedding can quickly become overwhelming. One of the smartest moves you can make is to hire a professional wedding planner who specializes in backyard or non-traditional venues. They’ll help you manage all the details, and most importantly, help you transform your space into a functional, beautiful venue for your big day. From setting up timelines to handling last-minute problems, your planner will be your best ally.
Backyard weddings come with unique logistical challenges—think power sources, weather contingencies, and transforming your space into a wedding-worthy venue. A planner will not only keep you on track with deadlines and details but will also have experience with outdoor setups and can anticipate needs you might not even think of.
They'll also handle everything from creating a backup plan for unexpected weather to managing the setup and tear-down of your space, so you can focus on soaking in the day.
2. Choose Your Vendor Team Thoughtfully
Your vendor team can make or break your wedding experience. Lean on your planner’s expertise to select the best vendors for your needs. They’ll know which caterers can handle outdoor events, which rental companies provide high-quality tents and seating, and which photographers (like yours truly!) know how to navigate unique lighting challenges that can come with a backyard setting. Your planner can also help ensure all your vendors work well together, making the day run smoothly.
Your planner will be key in helping you pick the right vendors, and will have a list of preferred vendors, but it's also essential that you build a team that understands the complexities of a backyard wedding. Not every vendor is equipped to handle the logistics of an outdoor event at a private home. From the caterer needing to work without a full kitchen to the DJ needing reliable power, your vendor team should be experienced in non-traditional settings.
3. Don’t Forget Rentals—You’ll Need More Than You Think
When you're hosting your wedding in your own backyard, you'll need to bring in all the essentials. This can include tents, tables, chairs, dinnerware, lighting, and even heating or cooling if your wedding is in an unpredictable season! From the big-ticket items like tents, dance floors, and lighting, to the small but necessary details like napkins and table settings, your rental list will be long. Don’t underestimate the amount of rentals you may need, and make sure to work with your planner to cover every detail so that your space is fully functional and gorgeous.
4. Bathrooms Are a Must!
This is one of the most overlooked aspects of planning a backyard wedding. Unless your guest list is very small, your home’s bathrooms probably won’t cut it. You’ll need to rent portable restrooms, and before you panic at the thought, there are upscale options that feel luxurious rather than camping chic. Many even come with air conditioning, running water, and mirrors (as pictured above!). Make sure to rent enough to accommodate your guest count comfortably, and place them in an accessible but out-of-sight location.
5. Lodging for Traveling Guests
If you have guests coming in from out of town, make sure you have a plan for their accommodations. Nearby hotels, vacation rentals, or even designated areas for glamping tents can make your guests feel more at ease. Work with your planner to block hotel rooms early and consider providing transportation options, like a shuttle, to get them to and from the wedding without hassle.
6. Parking and Transportation
Parking is another key detail that’s easy to overlook. Depending on the size of your property, you may not have enough space for guests to park. Consider renting a nearby lot and offering a shuttle service to transport guests to and from the parking lots and/or the ceremony and reception areas. You can also hire valet services to make parking stress-free for your guests.
7. Prepare for the Weather (and the Bugs)
Even if you’re getting married in a season with predictable weather, it’s always good to have a Plan B. Whether that means renting a tent or setting up indoor space as a backup, don’t leave anything to chance. Also, consider the comfort of your guests by providing bug spray, fans, blankets, or heaters depending on the forecast.
Let’s Make Your Backyard Wedding Unforgettable
Planning a backyard wedding can be a lot, but with the right team and a bit of preparation, it will be as magical as you imagine - and can see from this blog post! Ready to bring your vision to life? Reach out today to inquire about our preferred vendors and start assembling your dream team for your perfect day!
Vendors
Planner: Without a Hitch
Florist: Harvest Moon Florals
Caterer: La Bonne Maison
Rings: E. Scott Originals
Dress: Alexandra Grecco, Sienne
Bridal Bouquet: Lovely Bride NYC
Hair + MUA: Demiche Beauty
Shoes: Dolce Vita Zalima Pearl Heels & custom embroidered Converse
Band: East Coast Soul
Coffee Cart + Desserts: Blue Bird Mobile Dessert Bar