Imagine saying “I do” under the open sky, surrounded by the familiar comforts of home with the beauty of your garden as your backdrop.
For homeowners, the appeal of backyard weddings is undeniable. Your backyard becomes a canvas upon which you can paint the wedding of your dreams. This, after all, is a place your family and friends are already familiar with and where you probably have made many memories. It is also budget-friendly, as you don’t have to worry about renting a venue. You can put these funds toward your honeymoon or your new home.
Sound good? Let’s look at how to prep for a backyard wedding!
Before jumping to conclusions that your yard is ready, thoroughly assess your landscape. This step is the foundation for all your planning — completing it ensures that you make the most of the available space.
A thorough assessment might seem unnecessary, but here is why it matters:
Optimizing space: Understanding your yard’s strengths and limitations ensures you maximize its potential.
Budget planning: Knowing what you’re working with helps you budget more accurately. You can anticipate landscaping costs and necessary repairs or improvements to achieve your wedding vision.
Safety and logistics: Understanding the landscape’s topography and features helps you address safety concerns. It also aids in logistical planning, such as where to place tents, catering stations and restrooms.
Environmental impact: With sustainable landscaping, you can minimize your wedding’s environmental impact.
What Should You Assess?
Begin by taking a close look at the current state of your backyard. Pay attention to the following aspects:
Terrain and topography: Examine the lay of the land. Note any slopes, dips or uneven areas that might impact your wedding setup. These natural features can be integrated into your wedding design or may require adjustments.
Vegetation: Identify the types of plants, trees and shrubs in your backyard. Consider which can be incorporated into your wedding decor and which might need special attention or removal.
Hardscape features: Take stock of any existing hardscape elements like patios, pathways or pergolas. Determine if these features can be repurposed or need refurbishment.
Consider the size, shape and layout of the space, taking note of the dimensions and design of your backyard. Here are some points to assess:
Size: Assess the total area available for the wedding. Determine how many guests you can comfortably accommodate without overcrowding the space.
Shape: The shape of your backyard influences the flow of the event. Irregularly shaped yards may require more creativity in designing seating and activity areas.
Layout: Think about how different sections of your yard can be utilized. Where will the ceremony take place? Where should the dining area be situated? Mapping out these zones will help in creating a cOhioesive wedding layout.
Landscaping Basics for a Stunning Wedding Venue
Now that you have assessed, the next step in how to plan a backyard wedding is to give careful attention to landscaping. Incorporating the right elements allows you to transform your outdoor space into a captivating and memorable setting for your special day.
Your Lawn and Garden
Before you roll out the wedding aisle, ensure your lawn and garden are in top-notch shape. Here are some maintenance tips for your backyard wedding lawn prep, as well as some tips for choosing the perfect flowers and plants to create a beautiful backdrop for your special day. Let’s start with your lawn:
Regular mowing: Maintain a well-groomed lawn by mowing it regularly. In Lewis Center and Columbus, Ohio, this often means cutting from early spring to late fall, as the grasses thrive during the warmer months.
Aeration and seeding: Ensure healthy grass growth by aerating and seeding your lawn as needed. This practice improves soil quality and minimizes bare patches, making it a necessary step in your backyard wedding lawn care.
Fertilization: Apply fertilizers appropriate for your grass type to keep it lush and green. Local garden centers can recommend suitable fertilizers for your specific region.
Weed control: Implement a weed control plan to keep unwanted plants at bay. This includes manual removal, herbicides or organic weed control methods.
Now, let’s move on to finding flowers and plants for a stunning backdrop and landscaping design. The flora you choose can transform your backyard into a botanical wonderland. Explore how to select plants that create a breathtaking natural setting for your wedding:
Native plants: Choose native plants that thrive in Ohio’s climate. Examples include coneflowers, black-eyed Susans and Ohio spiderwort. These plants are low-maintenance and attract local wildlife.
Seasonal blooms: Coordinate your wedding date with the local growing seasons to feature seasonal flowers like tulips in spring or sunflowers in late summer.
Color palette: Align the color palette of your flowers with your wedding theme.
Landscaping design: Combine all the above with strategic landscaping design elements that enhance the overall aesthetic and bring everything together. A landscaping professional can prune trees, select shrubs and add structure to your yard.
What About Hardscape Elements?
Getting the foundations right will allow you to play with the smaller elements a lot more. But how do you prepare your patio and deck and the art of laying out elegant pathways for your guests?
Your patio or deck is the stage for your wedding. Here’s how to read these outdoor spaces for the spotlight, ensuring they shine on your big day:
Cleaning and maintenance: Ensure existing patios or decks are in top condition by cleaning and making necessary repairs. Pressure washing, staining or sealing may be needed.
Furniture and decor: Select stylish outdoor furniture and decor that complements your wedding theme.
The journey to your ceremony should be as memorable as the ceremony itself. Learn how to craft elegant pathways that guide your guests gracefully through your transformed backyard. Consider the following:
Materials: Elegant materials like natural stone, pavers or gravel create walkways that blend seamlessly with your landscape.
Layout: Plan the pathway layout to guide guests through your backyard, ensuring safe and easy navigation.
Larger hardscape elements that you can bring in might include the following:
Dance floor: Consider incorporating a dance floor into your backyard wedding setup. You can achieve this by cleaning up or installing a patio brick section or bringing in a wooden dance floor. A dance floor is a focal point that allows guests to dance the night away under the stars.
Paving patio: Chairs, tables and high-heeled shoes all tend to sink into grass areas. As a solution, create a patio section to create a safe space for guests and tables. Take things a step further by incorporating a pattern or theme into the bricks to make a long-lasting memory in this space.
Outdoor kitchen: if you are leaning toward a small wedding, it might be an excellent opportunity to upgrade your outdoor kitchen and barbecue area. This area offers opportunities for meal preparation and gives your caterers space to grill. Nothing beats fresh, grilled food.
Bring in Some Lights
When the sun sets, the proper lighting can work magic. Here are some creative outdoor lighting ideas to infuse your wedding venue with a captivating ambiance:
String lights: Hang string lights across the backyard for a warm and enchanting atmosphere. They can be draped over trees, pergolas or along pathways.
Uplighting: Use uplighting to accentuate trees, shrubs and architectural features. This creates a dramatic and romantic effect.
Candlelight: Place candles in lanterns, mason jars or hurricane vases to create soft, flickering light throughout the venue.
Use all the above: You can add string lights in central places, like the aisle and dance area, with uplighting on plants and trees in the backdrop. Candles can then add soft lighting in the backyard wedding reception area.
Water Features
Water features bring a touch of serenity and sophistication to any outdoor event. You can incorporate fountains, ponds or pools to elevate your wedding venue:
Fountains: A fountain can add a touch of elegance to your wedding venue with the soothing sound of flowing water. Choose a design that complements your theme.
Ponds: If you have the space, consider creating a small pond with aquatic plants and fish.
Pools: For a touch of luxury, consider renting a temporary pool or creating a poolside area with lounge seating. It’s perfect for hot summer weddings.
Gazebo and Pergola Opportunity
Wooden structures provide an excellent opportunity to create both a WOW factor and a photo opportunity for guests, bride and groom. Gazebos create an elegant, romantic canopy where the bride and groom can exchange vows. Decorate it with drapery, flowers or greenery to match your overall theme. If your gazebo is large enough, you could provide seating space for parents, in-laws and other VIPs.
A pergola is a more open and airy design option. You can use it as a walkway or as a space for dining tables. Decorate the pergola with flowers, similar to the gazebo idea above, or use hanging lights and fabric to make it fit the wedding theme.
Weather Considerations
While planning for a backyard wedding, one factor you must account for is the unpredictability of Mother Nature. Weather can be both a wonderful and challenging aspect of an outdoor celebration.
Firstly, preparing for unpredictable weather. As the saying goes, always ready for the worst:
Have a backup plan: The first and most essential step is establishing a backup plan. In Lewis Center and Columbus, Ohio, the weather can be somewhat unpredictable, so renting a tent or considering an indoor space as an alternative if the forecast looks uncertain is a good idea. Ensure that your chosen tent or indoor venue is spacious enough to accommodate your guests comfortably.
Seasonal considerations: You must prepare for specific weather conditions, depending on the time of year. For example, be ready for potential rain showers in spring by having umbrellas on hand and a covered area for guests to stay dry. Cool evenings may require heaters or blankets for guests in the fall, especially if your wedding extends into the night.
Communication: Keep your guests informed about the weather plan. Send updates via your wedding website, email or social media channels so everyone knows what to expect and how to prepare.
Dress accordingly: Be sure to select attire that suits the expected weather conditions. For instance, choose lightweight fabrics for summer weddings or shawls or wraps for cooler seasons.
Consider these tents, umbrellas and shelter options:
Tents: Renting a high-quality tent is often the best solution for outdoor weddings. They provide shelter from rain and sun, and you can decorate them to match your wedding theme.
Umbrellas: Have a supply of stylish umbrellas available for guests in case of rain or excessive sun. These can also add a charming touch to your wedding photos.
Sheltered areas: Create designated protected areas for guests to seek refuge if the weather turns inclement. Consider covered walkways, pergolas or even repurposing your home’s interior for this purpose.
Preparedness ensures that your backyard wedding remains a memorable and enjoyable event for everyone.
Catering and Entertainment Spaces
Creating seamless catering and entertainment spaces in your backyard ensures that your guests are well-fed and entertained all night long.
Here are some tips for designing a functional kitchen or catering area:
Layout and flow: Design a functional kitchen or catering area with a logical format. It should include workstations for food preparation, plating and serving. Ensure easy flow between these stations to minimize congestion.
Equipment and appliances: Equip your catering space with appliances like ovens, stovetops, refrigerators and warming trays. Consider renting commercial-grade equipment if needed.
Food safety: Prioritize food safety by providing handwashing stations, sanitizer dispensers and temperature monitoring tools to ensure that all dishes are served at the right temperature.
Serving stations: Set up attractive serving stations with various dishes, including options for guests with dietary restrictions. Label each dish clearly with ingredients to accommodate guests with allergies.
Staffing: Depending on the size of your wedding, you may need professional caterers or a team of volunteers to manage food preparation, service and cleanup. Ensure they have a comfortable workspace.
With food done, you can now look at setting up entertainment zones, such as the stage and dance floor:
Stage for performances: If you plan to have live music or speeches, set up a designated stage area with proper lighting and sound equipment. Consult with a professional sound engineer to ensure excellent audio quality.
Dance floor: Create a spacious dance floor where guests can let loose and dance the night away. Opt for durable and nonslip flooring materials that can withstand various weather conditions and won’t get slippery if it gets wet from the rain or if a drink falls.
Lounge seating: Enhance the comfort of your entertainment area with lounge seating. Consider outdoor sofas, chairs and coffee tables where guests can relax between dances.
Entertainment options: Offer a variety of entertainment options to keep guests engaged. Besides dancing, consider activities like lawn games, photo booths or a live band to cater to diverse tastes.
Bar setup: If you plan to have a bar, set up a designated area with various beverages, including alcOhioolic and nonalcOhioolic options. Ensure responsible serving practices and have trained bartenders if necessary.
Weatherproofing: Be prepared for weather changes. Consider a tent or other protective structures over the entertainment zones if you’re concerned about rain or excessive sun.
Seating arrangements: Arrange seating strategically around the entertainment areas to ensure everyone has a good view of the action.
Accessibility: Ensure that all entertainment zones are accessible to guests, including those with mobility challenges. Ramps, wide pathways and designated seating areas can help accommodate everyone.
Decor and Styling
The decor and styling of your backyard wedding set the mood and create a memorable atmosphere. Choose color schemes and themes that harmonize with your landscape. Then, take a look at floral arrangements and centerpieces, as well as table settings and decor.
Color Schemes and Themes
Set the stage for a captivating backyard wedding by carefully selecting colors and themes. You can draw inspiration from your surroundings and the changing seasons. Here are some ideas for creating themes that reflect your style:
Landscape-inspired palettes: Draw inspiration from your backyard’s natural elements. Earthy tones like greens, browns, and muted blues can blend with the surroundings. Alternatively, consider a vibrant garden theme with rich floral hues.
Seasonal touch: Embrace the changing seasons of Lewis Center and Columbus. For spring weddings, pastels and fresh greens can mirror blooming flowers. Bright and lively colors are perfect during the summer, while fall invites warm, rustic tones. Winter weddings can feature elegant whites and cool blues.
Rustic elegance: A popular choice for outdoor weddings is a rustic theme. Incorporate wood accents, burlap and mason jars into your decor to create a charming countryside atmosphere.
Minimalistic modern: For a contemporary twist, choose a minimalistic theme with clean lines, monochromatic color schemes and simple, sleek decorations.
Destination-inspired: If you have a favorite destination or want to incorporate your cultural background into your wedding, infuse elements from that place into your wedding decor. This adds a personal touch and reflects your unique story.
Floral Arrangements and Centerpieces
Floral arrangements are the living heartbeats of your wedding’s decor, infusing life and color into your backyard venue. A great place to start is to use local blooms to create stunning bouquets. Here are some more ideas:
Local blooms: Opt for locally sourced flowers and greenery that thrive in the Ohio climate. Popular choices include peonies, hydrangeas and daisies. These look beautiful and also support local growers.
Bouquets and boutonnieres: Work closely with your florist to create bridal bouquets, bridesmaids’ posies and boutonnieres that reflect your chosen color scheme and theme.
Ceremony decor: Incorporate flowers into your ceremony space by adorning arches, pergolas or chairs. Flower petals lining the aisle add a touch of romance.
Table centerpieces: Choose eye-catching floral centerpieces that serve as focal points on dining tables. Mix flowers with greenery and elegant vases for a harmonious look.
Hanging florals: Consider suspended floral installations, like chandeliers or hanging hoops, to add drama and dimension to your backyard wedding ceremony area.
Table Settings and Decor
Elegance resides in the details, and nowhere is this more evident than in your table settings and decor. How you decide to design table arrangements and decorations will determine the mood and theme of your day, from table linens to utensil presentation:
Table linens: Select tablecloths, runners or placemats that complement your color scheme and theme. Crisp whites, soft neutrals or vibrant patterns can all work beautifully.
Tableware: Invest in quality tableware, including elegant dinnerware, flatware and glassware. Consider unique or vintage pieces for a personalized or unique touch.
Napkin and utensil presentation: Fold napkins creatively and place utensils visually appealingly. This small detail can elevate the overall table setting.
Centerpiece accessories: Enhance your floral centerpieces with additional decor elements like candles, lanterns or decorative chargers.
Place cards and favors: Customize place cards to guide guests to their seats. Provide thoughtful wedding favors that tie into your theme and serve as keepsakes.
Chairs and chair covers: Consider chair covers or sashes that match your color scheme.
Budgeting and Hiring Professionals
Approach your backyard wedding with a thorough budget and an understanding of when to bring in professional help. Here are some valuable tips for budgeting, as well as guidance on when to hire landscaping and event planning professionals:
Establish a realistic budget: Begin your wedding preparations by setting a clear and realistic budget. Determine how much you’re willing to spend on each aspect of the event, from landscaping and decor to catering and entertainment. Be sure to allocate a portion of your budget for unexpected expenses.
Prioritize your must-haves: Identify your wedding priorities. What elements are nonnegotiable for you and your partner? Whether it’s a specific floral arrangement, a renowned caterer or live music, allocating a significant portion of your budget to your top priorities ensures you get what matters most.
DIY vs. professional services: Consider which aspects of your wedding you can handle yourself and where it’s best to hire professionals. While DIY projects can save money, some tasks — like landscaping, catering and event coordination — may require experts to ensure a flawless outcome.
Flexibility with dates and seasons: Consider getting married during off-peak seasons or on weekdays, as venues and vendors often offer lower rates. This can help you secure top choices within your budget.
Research and negotiate: Research multiple vendors and obtain quotes from different providers. Don’t hesitate to negotiate prices or request custom packages that fit your budget. Many vendors are open to working within your financial constraints.
Repurpose and recycle: Get creative with your decorations and landscaping elements. Repurpose items you already have, borrow from friends or family, or explore thrift shops and online marketplaces for cost-effective decor options.
Guest list management: The number of guests directly impacts your catering and seating expenses. An intimate gathering with close family and friends only can help keep costs down.
When to Hire Landscaping, Hardscaping and Event Planning Professionals
If your backyard requires significant landscaping changes or improvements to accommodate your wedding, hiring landscaping professionals is advisable. They can assess the space, recommend enhancements and execute the necessary changes, such as lawn maintenance, flower bed installations and tree trimming. Start this process well in advance to allow time for landscaping projects to mature before the big day.
Here’s how landscaping and event planning professionals can help:
Event planning professionals: Event planners can help if you’re juggling a busy schedule or feel overwhelmed by the logistics of coordinating a backyard wedding. They can support you with timeline management, vendor selection, budget tracking and day-of coordination. Event planners can also help you source reputable vendors within your budget and provide creative solutions to make your wedding vision come to life.
Catering and entertainment professionals: Expert caterers can provide a diverse menu that caters to your preferences and budget, while professional entertainers, such as bands or DJs, can elevate the atmosphere. Ensure you hire these experts well in advance to secure your preferred choices.
Venue and tent rentals: If your backyard wedding requires a tent, seating or other rentals, consult professionals who specialize in these areas.
Floral designers: While some DIY floral arrangements can be cost-effective, intricate designs may require a professional touch. Floral designers can create breathtaking arrangements that complement your theme and style, ensuring your wedding flowers make a lasting impression.
Get a Quote With Shearer Patio & Landscape Services
We understand that creating the perfect backdrop for your special day is a labor of love, and our professional services can help make it happen. Our experienced landscape planners can take the burden off your shoulders, allowing you to focus on creating beautiful memories with your loved ones.
Reach out to Shearer Patio & Landscape Services for a quote tailored to your unique needs. Let us bring your vision to life and ensure your outdoor space remains a picturesque haven for years to come.
