The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Backyard Wedding: Tips and Photography Insights
Planning a backyard wedding? I’m here for it! There’s something so cozy and personal about saying “I do” in your backyard (or your parents or best friend’s—you get it). But let’s be real: it takes a lot of extra prep to make sure everything goes off without a hitch. Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered with some helpful tips to keep the day smooth and stress-free—and, of course, some insider photography advice to make sure every moment shines.
General Tips for Hosting a Backyard Wedding
Bathrooms Are a Must
If you’re hosting a smaller crowd, your home’s bathrooms might do the trick. But if your guest list is looking more like a block party, consider renting some fancy portable restrooms or even a luxury restroom trailer. Trust me, your guests will thank you when they’re not waiting in line.
Bugs? Not Invited
Nobody wants uninvited guests buzzing around, right? Keep those pests away by:
- Getting a pest control service to swing by the week before.
- Lighting up some citronella candles or torches.
- Setting out bug spray for your guests (bonus points if it’s in cute baskets!).
Rain Happens—Be Ready
We all hope for sunny skies, but let’s be prepared just in case. You can:
- Rent a tent with sides to keep everyone dry.
- Have an indoor space on standby.
Hand out cute umbrellas—they’re practical and make for fun photo props!
Clean-Up Crew, Assemble!
After all the fun, the last thing you want to do is deal with trash bags and folding chairs. Hire a cleanup crew to handle it, or check if your caterer or rental company includes cleanup services. You deserve to relax after the big day. Trust me, you'll be absolutely exhausted!
Keep the Neighbors Happy
Give your neighbors a heads-up about the festivities, especially if the music will be pumping. Check local noise rules to avoid any party poopers calling in complaints. Wrapping up the louder stuff by 10 PM is usually a safe bet. If you're a night owl or a party animal, host an after party at a nearby restaurant, bar, or club.
Parking Game Plan
Parking in residential areas can be tricky. You could hire a valet, set up shuttle services, or encourage carpooling to keep things simple. And don’t forget about spots for your vendors’ vehicles—they’ll need easy access to load in and out.
Photo-Specific Tips for a Backyard Wedding That Looks Amazing
Getting gorgeous wedding photos at home? Totally doable—with a little planning. Here’s how to make sure your photos are as stunning as your day feels.
Hide the Bride Before the Ceremony
Want that “oh wow” moment when you walk down the aisle? Keep yourself tucked away before the ceremony. A bedroom, den, or office can be a peaceful spot to wait out of sight, allowing you to relax before your big moment. This way, your grand entrance is a surprise, and your photographer can focus on capturing those genuine reactions without any distractions.
Making an Entrance
If your home has French doors that open to the ceremony space, use them to create a dramatic and elegant entrance. If your backyard or home has a staircase leading to the ceremony space, the bride can make a breathtaking entrance as she walks down the stairs to the waiting guests. Perhaps your front yard is fabulous, and you'll have your ceremony there. Walking out the front door is perfect.
Get Formal Portraits Done Right
The best timing for portraits? If you’re up for a first look, that’s the perfect place to start. You can follow it up with romantic couple portraits, wedding party photos, and finally, family portraits. This way, you’ll have everything done before the ceremony even begins, and you can head straight to cocktail hour without worrying about rushed or chaotic family photos.
If a first look isn’t your thing, no problem! Get photos of the bride with the bridesmaids and the groom with the groomsmen before the ceremony. Right after the ceremony, gather the entire wedding party for portraits—away from guests because keeping things separate is key. Then, move on to family portraits and wrap up with the romantic couple portraits. This order helps prevent anyone from disappearing to cocktail hour and ensures you get plenty of beautiful portraits together without interruptions.
Finding Privacy for Formal Photos Away from Guests
Finding a quiet spot away from the crowd is a must when it's time for formal photos. The goal is to keep things calm, organized, and free of interruptions. If your backyard or neighborhood has a garden, a pretty tree-lined area, or even a charming front porch, those spots are perfect. You could also use a neighbor’s yard (with their permission) or a nearby park for a little more space and privacy.
If your home has unique architectural features—like a grand staircase, a beautiful doorway, or even a cozy sunroom—those can be great for portraits, too. The key is choosing a spot that’s far enough from the guests to avoid distractions but close enough to keep things running smoothly. This way, no one sneaks off to cocktail hour before their photo is taken, and you get those dreamy, uninterrupted moments with your loved ones.
Plan Your Reception Entrance
Your entrance to the reception is one of those high-energy moments with guests cheering your dance moves. But when you’re getting married at home, it can feel tricky to "make an entrance" when you’re already there! To keep that excitement, sneak away for a quick breather after your portraits are done. You can hang out in a different part of the house, step into a quiet room, or even take a little stroll around the block. When it’s time to rejoin the party, you’ll be refreshed and ready to wow your guests with that grand entrance.
Decor That Pops in Photos
Backyard weddings have the advantage of showcasing your own personal aesthetic, creating a unique wedding atmosphere. Incorporating elements like your garden, firepit, or string lights draped over garden trellises can add a personalized touch that really shines in photos. Remember the little details—hand-painted signs, garden flowers in mason jars, or heirloom pieces passed down through generations—each can tell a meaningful story. Be sure to allow your photographer time to capture all of these touches before the guests arrive so they can be photographed in all their carefully arranged glory.
Backyard weddings have this amazing mix of intimacy and charm—and with a little extra planning, they can be just as fabulous as any fancy venue. By handling the logistics and ensuring your photos are perfect, you'll create an unforgettable day in all the best ways.
If you’re dreaming of a backyard wedding and want to chat about capturing all those beautiful moments, reach out today—I’d love to hear about your plans!
