When it comes to planning your big day, many couples find it challenging to achieve their dream wedding while also staying on budget. Or maybe they prefer a bit more privacy with a romantic ambiance. A backyard wedding can give you the best of both worlds! With a backyard wedding, you and your guests will feel relaxed and comfortable while celebrating your love story. The intimate setting gives you time and space to cherish every moment. If you need some inspiration, Ruby and Isaac’s backyard wedding was an absolute dream!
4 Tips for Planning Your Backyard Wedding
1. Choose Your Space
If you don’t have a wedding-worthy backyard available (let’s say you live in the city or an apartment), consider booking an Airbnb or VRBO nearby with a great outdoor space.
Remember, the outdoor space doesn’t have to look like the perfect Pinterest photo (but we’ll be sure to take pictures that do!). Your guests are there to celebrate you! You can always add lighting and decorations to liven up the space according to your vision. Feel free to take advantage of the space, and make it your own.
2. Simple Yet Elegant Décor
With a backyard wedding, you can usually depend on the flowers and greenery available outside. However, if your space needs a bit more, feel free to bring in potted plants or a simple archway covered in vines and florals. Drape string lights through the trees or light candles for extra ambiance and mood lighting. Place cute signs and engagement photos around the area for an extra pop of personalization. If you have a tall fence or empty wall, you could easily turn it into a photo booth area! Yard games or a photo booth will provide fun memories for all of your guests at the reception.
3. Borrow or Rent Items
Backyard weddings also mean that you are not forced to use specific venue items, so feel free to rent from your favorite company or borrow from your friends. Or, you can use folding chairs and benches during the ceremony. If you are serving dinner, you may choose to have your guests sit at picnic tables or standing patio tables with elegant table cloths. Being free from venue restrictions can give you limitless options for setup and décor!
4. Phone-a-Friend or Cater
With a backyard wedding, feel free to book your favorite caterer. Or, have family members contribute by bringing their favorite cultural dish—kind of like a potluck! Set up a buffet-style table so your friends and family can serve themselves whenever they choose. Your guests will appreciate the tasty food and relaxed atmosphere.
Plan Your Backyard Wedding & Create Memories with Sasha Chou Photography
A backyard wedding offers a meaningful location for an unforgettable wedding day. Remember, you don’t have to spend a ton of money for your wedding day to be special. It’s all about celebrating your love story! Think of the backyard as a blank canvas. You can decorate it according to a wedding style that suits the two of you! I had the most amazing time photographing Ruby and Isaac’s backyard wedding, and I look forward to capturing your love story, too!
Sasha Chou is a boutique New York City engagement, wedding, and maternity photographer. She specializes in timeless, photojournalistic images. Discover her style by visiting her portfolio here. Learn more about the dedicated Sasha Chou Photography team here. To book video or photography services or learn more about wedding packages, click here.
Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @sashachouphotography and Facebook @SashaChouPhotographyStudio to see what we’re up to!