Small Backyard Wedding Reception

Who: Jessika + Kenneth

What: Wedding

Where: Private Residence

When: August 2022

Planning a backyard wedding doesn't need to cost an arm and a leg. In fact, there are many inexpensive DIY ideas that will allow you to create a memorable event without breaking the bank. With the help of local family and friends, Jessica and Kenneth held an elegant backyard wedding that far surpassed their wildest dreams.

Hire a planner or a coordinator

I can’t tell you anymore than this, but hiring a wedding planner or wedding coordinator for your backyard wedding may be the easiest way to save money AND avoid headaches. This hired individual will take care of all the logistics of your day, ask the questions you never think to ask, and will have the answer to said questions.  Jessika and Kenneth hired Rose of Weddings and Events Galour to ensure the plans for their day went off without a hitch. Since they were planning this event across states, having Rose on the ground in MA was so very helpful to ensure all the little details were taken care of.

Choose a location that will make your guests feel at home.

If you're looking for a unique setting for your wedding, consider using a backyard as the venue. This type of wedding has become increasingly popular because it's a low-cost alternative to traditional venues. You'll also save money by not having to pay for catering or other services. Jessika’s uncle home in Norwood MA has an ample backyard with room for guests to roam and children to place. It was the perfect location.

Create an outdoor ceremony space with a view.

Before you start planning your backyard wedding, make sure you have a clear idea of what you want. It will help you avoid wasting time and money on things you won't use. Think about how much sunlight you need, where you want to place tables and chairs, and whether you'd prefer a tent or a gazebo. Because they had the vision of Rose to guide them, Jessika and Kenneth’s tented wedding was just the right size and organized perfectly. They had an ample-sized dance floor as well as an outdoor bar for guests to use.  Since Jessika’s uncle backyard was mostly in a wooded area, they created ambiance with string lights all around the space.

Include a barbeque or fire pit as part of your reception area.

If you're having an outdoor wedding, consider adding a barbecue or fire pit to your reception area. This will give guests something to do while waiting for the ceremony to begin. You can also add seating areas near the barbecue so people can relax and mingle before the big day begins. The outdoor fire pit served as a perfect location for the children at Jessika + Kenneth’s wedding to go and engage with one another.

Invite family members who have been married before.

It's not uncommon for couples to invite their parents to their wedding. However, inviting other relatives who have been married before can help make the event feel even more special. These guests can share stories with each other and provide insight into what makes a marriage last.

Have fun with your theme!

If you're having trouble coming up with a unique theme for your wedding, consider using an existing one. You can find plenty of ideas online, such as "The Beach" or "Carnival." Or, you might choose something that has personal meaning to you and your partner. THe theme of this wedding was green and gold. Everything from the tablecloths to the silverware fit into the time of the wedding beautifully.

Vendors

Venue | Private Residence

Planner | Weddings and Events Galour

Bakery | Caked Boston

DJ | DJ Emerson of Entertainment Specialists

Catering | Sam’s Spot Catering

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