I love the idea of a daughter/son growing up and choosing to have their wedding in their parent’s backyard or maybe their own backyard. However, I think there is a misconception that backyard weddings are simple and inexpensive, so I am here to point out a few things you might not have thought of. Below is a list including some suggestions, as well as, questions to think of while planning the wedding.
- The condition of the premises. You want to make sure the landscaping is beautiful for the backdrop of your photos.
- Will neighbours be upset by loud music playing into the wee hours of the morning
- Ensure the ground is ready for high traffic and high heels. You might want to put some stepping stones down in certain areas.
- Do you have a backup plan if it rains or are you going to rent a tent?
- Where is everyone going to park? Is there going to be someone directing the parking so it is organized? How is everyone getting home if there is going to be drinking? Taxi or are you maybe going to hire a bus at a certain time?
- What if it is too hot or too cold outside? Will you have heaters or fans available?
- ICE! If you are having a summer wedding ensure you have a freezer large enough to hold a lot of ice for the drinks
- Consider the flow of people from when they arrive to the ceremony/reception location. You might want to consider putting up signs so everyone knows where to go and when.
- Do you have enough easily accessible washrooms for the guests?
- Don’t forget the amount of things you will need to rent. The cost of rentals can really add up. You will need: a tent with a floor, tables, chairs, a bar, music system, cutlery, plates, cups, portable washrooms, decor, linens
- You might also want to hire servers and/or bartenders
- If the wedding is going to go into the night do you have any light source to keep the reception area lit, as well as, the walking paths to the washroom and parking lot (ex. lanterns, flashlights, candles)
