Backyard Weddings: Is Your Space Big Enough?

Planning a wedding in your backyard can be a great way to save money on venue fees, but there are a lot of things to consider. From permits and insurance to parking and noise restrictions, there are many logistics to work out before you can say I do at home.

One of the first things to consider is whether your backyard has enough space for the number of guests you plan to invite. You'll also need to think about parking, and whether you'll need to rent portable restrooms if your indoor facilities won't be sufficient.

Another important consideration is whether you'll need any permits or special insurance for hosting a large event at your home. Noise ordinances, fire codes, and health department regulations may also apply, so it's important to check with your local authorities well in advance.

In addition to these logistical concerns, you'll also need to plan for things like catering, rentals (such as tables, chairs, and a dance floor), and decorations. If you're planning to serve alcohol, you'll need to look into the requirements for obtaining a liquor license.

While a backyard wedding can be a beautiful and budget-friendly option, it's important to carefully consider all the details involved in hosting an event of this scale at your home.

Permits and insurance

Permits:

• Check with your local authorities: Every county and municipality has different requirements for permits. Contact your county or city officials to understand the specific rules and regulations for hosting a backyard wedding.
• Noise, parking, and fire restrictions: These are often the biggest concerns for backyard events. Respect your community's noise ordinances, provide adequate parking options, and follow fire safety guidelines. If you're using a tent, you may need a fire permit, as it's considered a temporary structure.
• Alcohol permits: If you plan to serve alcohol, a liquor license or special event permit may be required. Check with your local laws, as some places mandate a license only if alcohol is sold rather than provided for free.
• Portable restrooms: In some counties, you may need a permit from the health department if you bring in portable restrooms. The rental company should be able to advise you on this.
• Neighbour notifications: While not a permit requirement, it's considerate to inform your neighbours about your wedding plans, especially regarding noise and parking. You may even invite them or offer a hotel stay if noise is a concern.

Insurance:

• Liability coverage: Check your existing home insurance policy to see if it covers hosting events. If not, consider purchasing special event insurance to protect against potential liabilities.
• Coverage for damage and injuries: Ensure your insurance covers damage to your property and any rented equipment, as well as injuries to guests and vendors.
• Cancellation costs: Some insurance policies also cover costs associated with cancelling your wedding due to unforeseen circumstances.
• Umbrella policy: Consider an umbrella policy to provide extra coverage for the day of your wedding.

Parking

Planning and Preparation:

First, determine if there is sufficient space in your backyard or nearby areas for guest parking. A good rule of thumb is to have enough space for one car per two guests, plus additional space for vendors' vehicles, which may be larger. If you're expecting a large number of guests and don't have a large lot or field, you'll likely need to explore alternative parking options.

On-Site Self-Parking:

If you have the space, you can opt for on-site self-parking. Designate a specific area for guest parking, such as a large field on your property, ensuring it is well-lit and has a backup plan in case of wet weather.

Neighbourly Support:

Consider reaching out to your neighbours to ask if guests can use their driveways or parking spaces. It's a good idea to inform them beforehand about the event and potential parking challenges.

Off-Site Parking:

If on-site parking isn't feasible, look for nearby parking lots, such as at a church or school, with navigable sidewalks leading to your venue. Always check with the institution to get their permission, and it might be a good idea to do a test walk from the parking lot to your home to ensure it's safe and well-lit.

Valet Parking:

If on-site parking is limited or tricky, consider offering a complimentary valet service. A reputable valet company will survey your home beforehand and advise on any concerns. Schedule them to arrive 30 minutes before the event and stay at least 30 minutes after the official end time.

Shuttle Services:

If your off-site parking lot is not within walking distance, you can hire a mini-bus or shuttle to transport guests to and from the wedding venue.

Vendor Parking:

Don't forget to account for vendor parking! This includes photographers, caterers, wedding planners, bands or DJs, and other staff. Ensure they have designated parking spaces as well.

Informing Guests:

When sending out invitations, include a note about parking instructions and any alternative arrangements, such as a short walk from the parking area to your home.

Permits:

Check with your local county or city to find out if you need any parking permits for your event. Every region has different requirements, so it's essential to start this process early.

Respecting Neighbours:

Even if permits are not required, be respectful to your neighbours by informing them of your plans and providing a contact person if any issues arise. You may even invite them to the wedding or offer to put them up in a hotel if you're concerned about noise or parking disruptions.

Accessibility:

Ensure that your designated parking areas are accessible for guests with disabilities or mobility challenges, with clear pathways to and from the event spaces.

By planning ahead and considering these parking tips, you can ensure a smooth experience for your guests and make your backyard wedding a memorable success.

Catering and alcohol

Choosing a Caterer

First, consider the type of food you want to serve. If you have a specific type of cuisine in mind, research caterers who specialise in that type of food. Most catering companies can handle standard menu items, but if you're looking for something more unique or specialised, you may need to find a chef with prior experience.

Once you've found a few potential caterers, discuss the limitations of your space, including the amount of room available and any electrical limitations. Make sure they are aware of any restrictions, as most caterers are used to having plenty of space and outlets and may typically have a kitchen available for setup.

Types of Food and Drink

The food and drink you serve at your wedding can be tailored to reflect your personality and interests as a couple. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Wood-fired pizza
• Sushi station
• Portable oyster buckets
• Seasonal vegetables
• Signature cocktails
• Antipasti station
• Tacos and mini margaritas
• Late-night diner food
• Flavoured popcorn
• Soft pretzels with toppings
• Charcuterie cones
• Oysters on the go
• Breakfast for dinner
• Dim sum
• Fast food buckets
• Bratwurst and beer flights
• Mini grilled cheese
• Sangria
• Mango lassi
• Hot chocolate
• Prosecco
• Beer flights
• Lemonade
• Hard cider
• Slushies
• Gelato and espresso bar
• Sake
• Individual wine bottles
• Fresh coconuts
• Kombucha-based drinks
• Floral-topped drinks
• Spicy cocktails
• Cookies and milk
• Espresso-based drinks

Alcohol Permits and Requirements

Depending on your county or state, you may need to obtain a permit or licence to serve alcohol at your wedding. Be sure to research the specific requirements for your area, as these can vary. If in doubt, contact a local bar or bartender to provide alcohol and bartending services, as they will be knowledgeable about the necessary permits and requirements.

Other Considerations

• BYOB: You could make your wedding a bring-your-own-booze event, but this may not be the most appropriate option for a wedding.
• Cash bar: While a cash bar can help manage alcohol consumption, it is generally not recommended as it can be seen as controversial or rude.
• Non-alcoholic: If you, your families, and most of your guests don't drink alcohol, skip it and offer mocktails, sparkling water, and soda instead.

Space and setup

The first step in planning a backyard wedding is to determine if it is feasible and to plan out the spacing. The amount of space needed depends on the number of guests you plan to invite, and whether you will be hosting the ceremony, reception, or both in your backyard. You will also need enough space for parking, with a good rule of thumb being to have enough space to park one car for every two guests, plus room for vendors' vehicles. It is also important to ensure that the space is accessible for elderly guests or those with disabilities.

Once you have determined the number of guests, you can start planning the setup. This includes basics such as a tent, building, chairs, tables, etc. If you do not want to rent tables or chairs, you may be able to borrow them or buy them from a large department store. You will also likely need a generator as weddings require a lot of electricity. There are many rental companies that offer these items, as well as heating options, table cloths, flatware, and other logistics for a backyard wedding.

In addition to the setup, you will need to consider the space and layout for catering and alcohol services. Most caterers are used to having plenty of space and outlets and may be accustomed to having a kitchen available for setup. Be sure to discuss the limitations of your space and any electrical limitations with potential caterers. For alcohol, you can make the wedding a BYOB, contact a local bar, or buy and supply all the alcohol yourself. If you choose the latter option, be sure to check the requirements for serving alcohol and whether you need a liquor license.

Another important consideration for space and setup is parking. A good rule of thumb is to have one parking space for every two guests. If you are having a large wedding or if there is a long walk from the parking area to the event space, you may want to consider hiring a valet or providing a golf cart to transport guests. You should also talk to your neighbours and let them know about the event, and see if they would be willing to allow guests to park in their driveways.

Finally, don't forget about trash and recycling bins! A group of 20 or more people will produce a lot of trash throughout the day, so be sure to rent plenty of bins and designate someone to monitor them so they don't become too full.

Clean-up

• Hire a Wedding Planner or Coordinator: Having a professional wedding planner can be a huge help, not just during the wedding but also with the clean-up process. They can oversee the breakdown of the event, ensuring gifts, personal items, leftover food, cake, and beverages are placed in a predetermined safe spot. They can also coordinate with other vendors, such as caterers and florists, to ensure a smooth and timely clean-up.
• Caterer's Role: A reputable caterer will remove all trash from the event and ensure the area is left tidy. They will also take care of cleaning up any dishes, cutlery, and glassware used during the wedding.
• Florist's Role: If you rented any items from your florist, such as floral arrangements or props, they will usually come to pick them up at the end of the event or the next day. Discuss with your florist what to do with leftover flowers; they may be able to donate them to a hospital or retirement home, or you can suggest another meaningful cause.
• Tent and Rental Companies: The tent company and other rental vendors, such as those providing generators and restrooms, will typically start breaking down their setups the morning after the wedding or on the following Monday. This process may take more than a day, depending on the extent of the installation. Ensure someone is present to supervise and watch over your personal belongings and property during this time.
• Neighbourly Considerations: It is important to be considerate of your neighbours, especially if you have a close-knit community. Assign someone to do a final walk-through of the area, especially if you have neighbours nearby. This will ensure that no trash or personal items are left behind, and it helps maintain a good relationship with your neighbours.
• Hire a Cleaning Crew: Don't add cleaning to your already long to-do list. Hire a professional cleaning crew to give your home and backyard a thorough clean a week before the wedding, and again after the event for post-wedding clean-up. This will ensure that you return to a clean and relaxed space after your honeymoon.
• Enlist Help: Don't be afraid to ask for help from family members or friends. They can assist with excess waste removal and general clean-up, both during and after the wedding. This can be especially useful if you're on a tighter budget and can't hire many professionals.
• Eco-Friendly Choices: Opt for environmentally friendly choices whenever possible. For example, instead of rice or confetti, choose eco-friendly alternatives like flower petals, leaves, birdseed, or herbs, which can be left on the ground without causing harm to the environment.
• Post-Wedding Breakfast or Brunch: If you're planning a post-wedding breakfast or brunch the next day, consider using the same space. This way, you can leave the decorations and grand displays up and enjoy them a little longer. It's a great way to extend the celebration and get more value from your wedding investments.
• Leftover Food Handling: Discuss with your caterer about properly storing any leftover food. You may want to donate it to a local food bank or shelter, or perhaps you can plan to use it for your post-wedding breakfast or brunch. Make sure to follow safe food handling practices to ensure the food stays fresh and edible.

Remember, proper planning and communication with your vendors are key to a successful clean-up. Enjoy your special day, and don't stress too much about the aftermath—with a well-thought-out plan, your backyard wedding will be a beautiful and memorable event!

Frequently asked questions