Breezy Backyard Dream Wedding

During the Fall season, a backyard wedding can be a unique and enjoyable way to celebrate your wedding day. You can work with the landscape you already have in your own home (or a friend's house) to create a beautiful outdoor setting for an intimate wedding experience!

Here are some tips and ideas to help you create a memorable backyard wedding.

Set the date

The first item to take care of is setting your wedding date and time. Consider the weather, the availability of your guests, and what season you prefer to have it. We recommend starting the planning process at least 6 months before the wedding, unless it will be a very small and intimate event.

Then, you can start making a plan that details everything from your wedding planning timeline, the guest list, the florals, decorations, theme and traditions you would like to include in the ceremony and reception. Creating a plan will help you stay organized, stress-free and ensure that everything runs smoothly before, during and after the wedding.

If you would prefer that someone else do the planning, consider hiring a wedding planner that can help bring your  vision to life with no detail missed. 

One advantage of having a backyard wedding is that you will save on one of the biggest wedding costs - the venue. However, it is still important to set a budget so you know how much you can expect to spend. Consider the cost of renting equipment and decor, hiring vendors, serving food and drinks, wedding attire, gifts and wedding activities, like your wedding shower and honeymoon. 

The Theme

Next, decide on a theme for your wedding and incorporate it into your decorations, wedding favors and attire. Some popular themes for backyard weddings include rustic, bohemian, and fairytale. You can base it on your style as a couple and what your backyard is like. Starting a Pinterest board can help with inspiration and creating a beautiful, cohesive theme.

Another important element to consider when planning a backyard wedding is your guest count. The amount of people you can invite depends on the size of your backyard and how many people it can comfortably accommodate for the ceremony and reception. 

The Ceremony and Reception

For the ceremony, choose an area in your backyard that can fit the appropriate number of chairs for your guests with a nice spot for you and your partner to stand. Consider the natural scenery and what kind of decorations would work there. You’ll also want to have space for an aisle that you and your wedding party will walk down for the procession. 

For the reception, it’s important to have enough space for guests to sit down to eat, mingle and dance. You might also want tables for desserts, drinks and gifts. Depending on your backyard space and time of year, we recommend renting a tent. A tent provides protection from the sun and rain, and can also be used to hang decorations, like string lights and lamps. 

Have a blackup plan, and select decor accordingly

Speaking of, since the wedding is outside, it’s crucial you have a backup plan in case of rain or extreme heat. In addition to a tent, renting fans or heaters can help keep your guests comfortable.

For decor, it depends what your backyard already has and what your theme is. If you already have a flower garden, trees or greenery, you may not need a lot of extra florals. You can add decorative cushions, rugs, garlands and fabrics. Photos and signage are also great ways to add personal touches around the space. You’ll also want lighting, since most weddings carry on into the evening. Lighting can be a key element in creating a romantic and magical atmosphere for your backyard wedding. String lights, lanterns, and candles are all great options for adding ambience to your outdoor space.

You will also need a sound system and microphone, which will ensure that your guests can hear your wedding vows, the speeches and enjoy music throughout the evening. Be sure to check city ordinances related to amplified music outdoors and be considerate of your neighbors.

Depending on where you live, you may need to also obtain permits for hosting a backyard wedding. Make sure to check with your local government to ensure that you have all the necessary permits and approvals.

The Food

Now for planning your food menu and style. Do you want a more formal sit-down dinner, a buffet or even a potluck? You can also hire a food truck for a fun and casual dining experience. Be sure to plan for certain dietary preferences for yourselves and your guests . For example, for vegan couples, it is definitely possible to offer an all-plant-based menu for your wedding. Many caterers are happy to work with you to create a customized menu. Then, have a tasting with the caterer to ensure that you enjoy the food and menu selections. 

In addition to a caterer, decide on the other vendors you’ll need, including a wedding officiant, photographer, videographer, a florist, and a DJ or band. Make sure to read reviews and interview vendors to ensure that they are a good fit for your wedding. 



With careful planning and preparation, you can create a beautiful and memorable wedding in your own backyard!

We hope you found these tips helpful, and do not hesitate to contact us to plan the perfect vegan wedding!