When it comes to weddings, the trend is definitely moving towards outdoor ceremonies and receptions. In fact, according to Hudson Valley Weddings, 35% of weddings are now held outdoors, and backyards have become one of the most popular venues. There are many reasons for this switch, chief among them the simple fact that backyard weddings are often more intimate and personal. Of course, planning a backyard wedding does come with its own set of challenges. But with a little creativity and careful planning, you can pull off a beautiful backyard wedding on a budget. Here are a few tips to help you get started.
1. Choose a Theme or Style
The first step is to decide on an overall theme or style for your wedding. This will help you determine everything from the décor to the menu. For example, if you’re going for a rustic-chic vibe, you might want mason jars and wildflowers for your centerpieces and a simple but elegant menu of grilled meats and vegetables. If you’re not sure what style you want, spend some time browsing wedding websites and magazines for inspiration. Once you have a general idea of the overall style or theme you’re going for, it will be much easier to start planning the details.
2. Landscape Your Yard
If you want your backyard wedding to be truly beautiful, you’ll need to put in some work on the landscaping. Start by mowing the lawn and trimming any hedges or bushes. If you have time, you might even want to plant some flowers to add a pop of color. Just be sure to choose something that will bloom in the season you’re getting married. If you are unsure where to start, you can always consult with a local landscaping company. And given that 67% of Americans believe that professional landscaping could improve their yards, according to a survey by Harris Poll conducted for the National Association of Landscape Professionals, it’s definitely worth considering hiring some help.
3. Identify and Meet Vendors
One of the keys to staying on budget is identifying vendors who are willing to work with you. When it comes to finding vendors, your best bet is to start with people you already know and trust. Ask family and friends if they have any recommendations for local businesses that might be able to help with your wedding. Once you have a few potential vendors, sit down with them and explain your budget. Be sure to get everything in writing to avoid surprises later on.
4. Get the Necessary Permits
The last thing you want is to get fined or have your wedding shut down because you didn’t take care of the paperwork. Check with your local government office to find out what permits you need and how to get them. Remember to also check your HOA’s rules and regulations regarding noise levels and large gatherings, as you don’t want to run into any problems there either.
5. Limit Your Guest List
One of the best ways to keep your backyard wedding on a budget is to limit your guest list. Stick to close family and friends, and try to keep the number under 100 if possible. Not only will this make things easier on your budget, but it will also make things more intimate and personal.
6. Get Creative with Entertainment
There are many ways to entertain your guests while saving money. For example, you could hire a local band or DJ or set up a karaoke machine. You could also put together a list of fun lawn games for guests to play. And if you’re really on a tight budget, you can always ask family and friends to help out by providing entertainment.
By following these tips, you should be able to plan a beautiful and memorable backyard wedding on a budget. Just remember to stay creative and organized, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. With a little effort, you can pull off the perfect backyard wedding.
