A DIY Backyard Wedding Guide
As weddings are known to be quite expensive (according to The Knot, the average US wedding costs $33,901), you might be tempted to do it all yourself and have a backyard wedding. Not only would it give you more control over every detail, it may save you some money. However, since there are a lot more things you would need to buy or rent that are usually included in a regular venue, it is possible that a DIY wedding could end up costing you the same amount and be a lot more work.
While some venues do not include a lot in the booking, many include at least tables, chairs, bathrooms, parking, and an indoor area. If you are thinking of having a large, backyard wedding, I would seriously consider hiring an event planner to help you along the way and find the best vendors for your budget.
What You Will Need
Day-of Coordinator - If you don’t think you need an event planner, I would at least hire a day- of coordinator. They will help keep the timeline, move chairs, set up decorations, make sure you eat, hand out tips to vendors. Anything you may need day-of, they got you.
A Tent - As no one can predict the weather, you should at least reserve a tent for your big day. Tents can book up fast and it’s not something you want to be scrambling for last minute.
Tables + Chairs - You can use the same chairs for the ceremony and reception, but you will need to designate some friends, family or hire some staff to move them in between. The tent rental place you used may offer these as well.
Plates, cups, utensils - So this is actually a tricky one. No one wants to be stuck with a bunch of dirty dishes to clean after the day, but going the disposable route can be extremely wasteful. I would reach out to your caterer or rental company to see if they offer real dishes and cutlery. Another option I’ve heard of that I thought was wonderful was getting vintage plates and glasses from thrift shops and the like and doing mismatched table settings that can double as favors! Guests can scrape off their plates and take them home! Kill multiple birds with one stone!
Linens - Now not all tables need tablecloths, but everyone will need a napkin. Likely the place you get your tables and chairs from is able to provide these, too.
Lights - Candles are great in both form and function. They can be a part of your centerpieces/decor as well as provide light for when the night comes. I’m also a huge sucker for loads of string lights, which you likely already own for Christmas decorations.
Dance floor - Another thing your rental company may have! It’s not impossible to dance on grass, but it’s very likely some of your guests are in heels which can sink into the ground.
Decorations - There are a lot of local Facebook wedding groups where you can purchase decorations from past weddings. Best thing about these is that after your day, you can list them again and pass them on to the next happy couple.
Catering - Who you hire for catering depends on your budget and the overall feeling you’re going for. Do you want family style, buffet, plated? Will they be cooking on site or just deliver it? Will they bring servers and tables for the buffet trays?
Bartending - You may be able to get away without hiring a bartender if you only serve beer or wine, but having their insurance, as well as making sure no one is being over-served, is very helpful.
Waitstaff - This is also dependent on your budget and the feeling you’re going for. If there are no servers included in your catering and you want a plated meal and passed hors d'oeuvres, you’re going to need to hire some people to do that.
Bathrooms - I highly doubt you’re going to want everyone going through your home to go to the bathroom. Check your rental place for bathroom trailers or recommendations!
Things To Consider
Parking/Transportation - If you don’t have enough parking space at your house, you may need to hire a shuttle to take your guests to and from a parking lot or their hotel.
Garbage - Don’t forget about garbage pick up! You will have a fair amount of waste from your wedding, especially if you do disposable plates, cups, utensils, napkins, etc. Make sure you have enough garbage cans and somewhere to drop it off afterwards.
Noise Ordinance - Are there any restrictions on noise where you live? Many residential areas around me have a 10pm cut off for loud music.
Don’t forget to add the officiant, photographer/videographer, DJ/band, florist, bakery, invitations, and favors, too! It can definitely get overwhelming, which again is why I would suggest hiring an event planner. If you really want to cut costs, I would bring the number of guests down to 20 at most. Keep it intimate with those you love and who would help support you in your marriage. It is definitely possible to have bring down the costs for your wedding without sacrificing a beautiful day.
Below are photos from Bre and Dave’s backyard wedding from this past September. They DIY’ed what they could and hired out when they couldn’t. The result was an amazing fall wedding!
