Backyard wedding

I love them! I wish I had a backyard to get married in lol. But, if you're using it as a way to save money it's not going to be a money saver in the long run due to the stuff that you have to rent in order to make one work.

I don't see a problem with pretty much any venue your guests can feel comfortable in. There are rental costs that come with this type of event, so be sure to figure that into your budget. Also keep in mind restroom facilities and make sure there are enough available for your guests. We are basically doing the same, just renting the home so we could have the location we wanted. Look for catering options that can make and take to your venue. I would recommend doing a bit of research on what other couples needed and discovered in doing this type of reception. There will always be something you may not have thought of. Happy planning.

I've seen some done really well and set up really beautifully but it kind of seems like more work

They can be beautiful if done well, but between the cost and the ridiculous amount of work, I would never have one

They’re a lot of work— I know, because I had one. It was a ton of money and effort but it was perfect for us and everyone had a great time, and it made it really special for us to be in such a meaningful location. But there were certainly a lot of challenges to overcome (parking, power, bathrooms, lighting, weather as a few examples)— if I hadn’t been really determined and it hadn’t been my dream location, it wouldn’t have been worth all the extra trouble.

My sister did this in July and she ran herself into the ground physically trying to do so much herself and feeling like she HAD to oversee everything so that her vision is brought to life. She did a lot of DIY, and because she was running around, everything she bought and envision didnt pan out. So if you go this route, know that is probably more work than a venue, and hire the right people and definitely get a planner/coordinator.

If I had a backyard to get married in and enough room to park cars I totally would have went with this option!

They are fine in concept, and can certainly be done well. But the ones I have seen rely too much on the labor of friends and family to engender good memories. As long as the couple getting married allow their loved ones to actually be honored guests instead of free labor, then they are fine.

We are actually having our wedding in our backyard. It can be a lot of work but if you budget well and willing not to have certain things that are so called “needed”. It can save a lot of money, it has for us at least.

$$$$$$$$$$ is my opinion. At least if they are done correctly.

It's a nightmare for parking, so transportation has to be provided. Lights, generators, restrooms, tents, etc. all have to be rented. Caterers are limited because there isn't a professional kitchen. It's more expensive to ensure. You have ordinances in your community for noise & events. Dogs barking, bugs, etc. all seem to be issues too.

View Quoted Comment

OMG...THIS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I won't even say anymore, except I left more tired than when I arrived.

Depends on what you're doing. I'm doing a back yard reception and I'll be keeping it very informal. Finger foods, cold sides, and the FH and his best man want to grill. It'll basically be more of a family barbecue with a very expensive cake and fancy clothes haha. I have a pretty small guest list though and I'm willing to bet a lot won't be able to make it, so keep in mind that I don't have the usual huge guest list most associate with weddings.