The Backyard Wedding

There is something so great about sweet, simple, elegant backyard weddings. Usually they are intimate affairs filled with love. They also tend to be a bit more casual but that doesn't mean that there isn't great food, great entertainment and great event design.

When planning a backyard wedding, you want to make sure that you have a back up plan in case of rain. Tents are always a great idea because whether it is rain or shine, a tent provides an intimate space for guests to gather. It is also a great resource in case the ceremony needs to be moved inside. Simply arrange the chairs around the tables so everyone is facing forward and make an aisle down the middle.

Event design can be simple but elegant. Think bright colors, bright flowers and cool backdrops for photos. This could be as simple as hanging a colorful sheet from a tree branch to creating a picket fence backdrop for your head table. I also love the idea of using large candles grouped together. An even better idea would be to use citronella candles to keep bugs away and make the evening look fantastic!

Food for a backyard wedding can be delicious and laid back! I love the idea of having unique and fun passed hors d'eouvres such as mini cheeseburgers, mozzarella sticks or mini kabobs. Another fabulous idea is to do an appetizer station with wonderful summery foods such as an artisan cheese spread and exotic fruit tray.

For the meal, I would go with good, old fashioned BBQ. Divine Swine Catering is awesome!They will come out, roast up some pig and serve heavenly pulled pork sandwiches. They have all the side fixings too such as corn bread muffins, baked beans and corn on the cob.

Of course, I understand that there are vegetarians at almost every gathering. Food options for them could include a well stocked salad bar, or something as down-home as macaroni & cheese pasta! All of these options are tasty and perfect for a backyard wedding!

In addition to the fantastic nuptials, there has to be something to do for the guests beside mingle during cocktail hour. I suggest yard games. Croquet, bean bag tosses, golf toss and badminton are perfect entertainment before the band begins to play.

Finally, have some evening entertainment. Most communities allow for noise until 10PM so plan nuptials accordingly. Try a 2pm wedding with 2:30-4PM cocktail hour followed by games. Then serve dinner around 5:30pm and have dancing start at 7pm.

For this type of event, I would skip the DJ and opt for a live band. A three or four piece band would be perfect. It could be jazz, country, classic rock...whatever you desire. Make sure that you have a dance floor available for your guests. They are easy to rent & set up but well worth the expense. After all, you don't want grandma to sprain her ankle on an uneven patch in the lawn.

The best part of this type of wedding is that it tends to be intimate. You will be surrounded by friends and family who will be having a great time! What could be better than that? The laid back atmosphere and utter joy that comes from these types of weddings is just awesome.

I love coordinating backyard and intimate weddings. They aren't any less work than a large scale wedding because the details are so significant. However, I can honestly say that they have such charm. I truly hope I've inspired you to consider a backyard fete.

Inspiration board created by Wonderful Day Weddings.
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Happy Planning!