How to Create the Perfect Backyard Wedding

Backyard weddings became increasingly popular during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, and they’re still a common choice for couples tying the knot in 2021. In fact, backyards were the most popular wedding venue in 2020, with about 25 percent of couples holding their ceremonies at their own house or the home of a family member or friend.

Thinking about celebrating your big day at home? There are so many elegant backyard wedding ideas that can help you host a beautiful, memorable event. Below, we’re giving you all of our best tips for creating the perfect backyard wedding.

The Benefits of a Backyard Wedding

Health and safety during the ongoing pandemic are excellent reasons to forgo a traditional wedding venue. However, there are plenty of other benefits of having your wedding at home, including:

• No Venue Costs – The average wedding venue cost in 2019 was over $10,000, which can take up a significant portion of your budget. The less money you spend on your venue, the more you’ll have for flowers and decorations to create the perfect atmosphere.
• Control Over the Space and Decor – When you have your wedding in your backyard, you get to pick exactly what the environment looks like. Whether you want a floral photo wall by the patio or a buffet table by the firepit, you have the freedom to choose how your space functions and feels.
• Flexibility for Your Wedding Date – There’s no need to worry about reserving the right date for your wedding when it’s taking place in your backyard. Just pick the day that works best for you and tell your guests when to arrive!
• An Intimate, Personal Setting – There’s something special about having a wedding at home. Nothing is more personal and intimate than the environment that you already know and love.

Tips for Planning a Backyard Wedding

Wondering how to plan a backyard wedding? Use the following tips to create the perfect event from start to finish:

1. Consider the Time of Year

Seasonal changes add beauty to outdoor weddings, but each time of year presents unique challenges. In the summer, the heat can be uncomfortable. To avoid this problem, plan to hold the ceremony early in the day or late in the evening when the air is cooler. You can also use misters and fans to keep guests comfortable.

During the fall and winter months, cold weather can leave your friends and family shivering. Be sure to rent heaters or a popup tent to help everyone stay warm!

One important thing to remember: Weather forecasts can (and do) change. Always have a backup plan and be ready to put up a tent or shift guests to an indoor location in the event of rain or snow.

2. Choose a Focal Point

Unlike formal wedding venues, your backyard isn’t necessarily built with events in mind. So, you’ll have to take extra steps to define the space and show guests where to sit and stand. Use floral decor on an arch or chuppah to set the stage for the ceremony. This centerpiece will create a natural focal point and ensure guests know where to look when the event begins.

3. Select the Right Flowers

Flowers are essential for any wedding, no matter the venue or time of year. However, it’s especially important to choose fresh, in-season flowers when you’re holding your ceremony outside. Selecting flowers that are in-season where you live at the time of your big day will also ensure they’re durable and look great throughout your entire event.

When choosing your flowers, you should also consider:

• Your Wedding Theme – From rustic to classic, the theme of your wedding will influence what flower varieties you should choose. An experienced florist can help you select options that work with your theme.
• How Many Arrangements You Need – Do you want floral centerpieces on every dining table or just on the head table? Would you like arrangements lining the aisles leading to the ceremony arch? Knowing how many arrangements you need (and where you’ll put them) will help you manage your floral budget.
• The Types of Arrangements You Need – There are many different wedding flower arrangements to choose from, including bouquets, centerpieces, boutonnieres, and more. Your florist can help you decide which arrangements are most important to have on your big day.
• What Flowers Are in Your Backyard – If your backyard has existing landscaping, it’s helpful to choose flowers that match it. Be ready to talk to your florist about the flowers and plants that are already in your venue’s natural environment.

Tying the Knot at Home? Bedford Village Flower Shoppe Is Here to Help

Whether you’re hosting a small ceremony on your back patio or a large gathering in your parent’s backyard, Bedford Village Flower Shoppe is here to bring your floral vision to life. Our process begins with an initial questionnaire and a preliminary phone call. Once we’ve discussed your budget and ideas, we’ll schedule a consultation so you can meet our team and see our studio in person.

To learn more about our wedding flower services or schedule a call with our experienced florists, contact us today!