Backyard Wedding Planning: A Checklist For Your Dreamy Day

Planning a backyard wedding can be a lot of work, but it can also be a beautiful and meaningful celebration of your love. To plan the perfect backyard wedding, there are a number of things to consider, from the guest list to decor and setup. You'll also need to think about renting equipment, from tables and chairs to portable restrooms, and make sure your vendors are aware that they'll be working in a backyard.

Guest list

The guest list for a backyard wedding is much smaller than a traditional celebration. The number of guests is limited by the space available, so it is important to measure the space and figure out how much room there is for the ceremony and reception seating, as well as tables and chairs, a dance floor and portable washrooms.

You don't want to overcrowd your backyard to the point where your friends and family are uncomfortable. Therefore, it is important to be realistic about the number of people you can accommodate. Consider the space needed for an altar, seating, serving, dancing and vendors.

When creating your guest list, start by making a rough estimate of the number of people you would like to invite. Then, measure your space and figure out how much room you have for seating and other necessities. This will give you a better idea of how many people you can comfortably accommodate.

Finally, create your guest list, keeping in mind that you may need to make some tough decisions if your initial estimate exceeds the number of people your space can comfortably hold. Remember to also consider the number of guests when renting equipment, such as tables and chairs, to ensure you have enough for everyone.

Space and seating

When it comes to seating, you'll need to rent tables and chairs for both the ceremony and reception. Make sure you have enough space for your guests to move around comfortably and that your dance floor is large enough. You may also want to consider renting a tent to provide shade or shelter from the weather.

In addition to seating, you'll also need to plan for other necessities, such as portable washrooms and a space for vendors to set up. Be sure to let your vendors know that you're planning a backyard wedding so they can prepare appropriately. They may want to visit your space ahead of time to get a better idea of the layout.

Finally, don't forget to double-check that your preferred officiant can perform marriage ceremonies in a backyard. Some churches do not allow their officiants to preside over unions outside of the church.

Vendors

When booking vendors, let them know that you’re planning a backyard wedding so they can prepare appropriately. They will probably want to visit your space ahead of your wedding day to get a better idea of the space they’re working with. Double-check that your preferred officiant can perform marriage ceremonies in a backyard. Some churches do not allow their officiants to preside over unions outside of the church.

One of the biggest hurdles for couples getting married in their backyard is renting all of the equipment they’ll need for the big day. Start with tables and chairs (for both the ceremony and reception). You will also need room for an altar, seating, serving, dancing and vendors. You will need to measure your space and figure out just how much room you're working with for your ceremony and reception seating, as well as extra necessities, like tables and chairs, your dance floor and portable washrooms.

You will also need to rent a tent and book portable restrooms.

Decor

Once you've figured out your guest list, it's time to plan your decor and setup. Measure your space and work out how much room you have for your ceremony and reception seating, as well as tables and chairs, a dance floor and portable washrooms. You don't want to cram your backyard to the point where your friends and family are uncomfortable.

When it comes to decor, think about the style and theme you want to create. Do you want a rustic, bohemian, or elegant feel? Choose decorations that reflect your style and personality. Consider hanging fairy lights or lanterns from trees, creating a backdrop with fabric or flowers, or using candles and string lights to create a romantic atmosphere. You can also use natural elements such as wood slices, greenery, and flowers to decorate tables and create centrepieces. If you're having a dance floor, consider adding some fun props or a photo booth to keep your guests entertained.

Equipment

When it comes to equipment, there are a few things you will need to consider for your backyard wedding. Firstly, you will need to rent tables and chairs for both the ceremony and reception. Make sure you measure your space and figure out how much room you have for seating, tables, a dance floor and portable washrooms. You will also need to rent a tent to provide shelter for your guests.

Another important consideration is the altar or space where the ceremony will take place. You will need to ensure that your preferred officiant can perform marriage ceremonies in a backyard, as some churches do not allow their officiants to preside over unions outside of the church.

In addition, you will need to think about equipment for serving food and drinks. This may include items such as plates, cutlery, glasses, and a bar or food station. If you are having a dance floor, you will also need to organise sound equipment and lighting.

Finally, don't forget the small details, such as decorations and any other personal touches you may want to add to make your wedding unique.

Frequently asked questions