Backyard Weddings: Why not?
Low-key wedding celebrations are gaining popularity
Some brides and grooms are on a budget, so they may need to plan for a low-key celebration. It’s not a big deal if you can’t have a horse-drawn princess carriage or release a plume of doves into the sky on a scenic vista. You can have a gorgeous wedding right in your own backyard. If you have a friend or family member with a farm, the more acreage, the better.
If you’re thinking of throwing a backyard wedding, get inspired by these tips.
Beneath the old oak tree
If you have a grand old oak tree in your backyard as many a homeowner in North Carolina does, then consider staging that as the pinnacle of your wedding ceremony. A stately oak tree can serve as a great altar focal point and also provided needed shade for your guests. As you know, outdoor weddings in North Carolina can be on the hot side with our sometimes unseasonably warm temperatures.
Thinking about having a summer wedding under the oak tree, Take a look at these tips to keep your guests cool.
Signage
Make sure to install decorative signs to point guests in the direction of the restroom, reception, dining, and ceremony. You could paint wooden signs from the craft store or make some out of refurbished wood. For table markers, you could paint a mason jar with chalkboard paint and write the table number on it. Find a creative family member to come up with neat ideas for little details like signs.
Prepare for weather
With any outdoor wedding, a look at the forecast a couple of days before the ceremony should allow you ample time to prepare for excessive heat or cold. For rain, consider renting a beautiful white wedding party tent rental. J&J Tent and Party Rentals offer a wide variety of wedding rental tents for up to 400 guests.
For cold weather, consider offering guests blankets for warmth, especially if the ceremony is in the late afternoon or evening. You could also offer a warm drinks bar selection such as hot toddies or eggnog coladas.
If your outdoor wedding is in a cold season, consider renting a wedding party tent along with outdoor heat lamps. These tent heaters will have your guests comfortably warm throughout your ceremony and hours after.
Let the neighbors know
Even if you haven’t invited your neighbors, it’s a good idea to let them know that you’re going to hold a wedding in your backyard. This is a polite gesture, so the neighbors will not be surprised or angered when parking becomes sparse on their street. Also, remind your guests of legal places to park and to be mindful of neighbors. For instance, you wouldn’t want guests to park in a way that would block a neighbor from freely driving in and out of their own driveway. If your home is located in a cul-de-sac, let your neighbors know ahead of time that you’ll appreciate their cooperation as your guests park nearby. Some cul-de-sac homeowners are notorious for being “cul-de-sac hogs” and parking at odd angles within the circle may prevents the flow of traffic.
String Lights
For a casual and elegant atmosphere, consider hanging string lights around the yard and ceremony area. This gives the yard soft romantic lighting and creates a festive atmosphere at the same time.
Rustic Touches
Add a rustic touch to your backyard wedding with adorable decorations such as a dessert or drink table made of two whiskey barrels with a board on top. How about a wheelbarrow full of ice and craft beers? Pinterest is your friend for rustic wedding decoration ideas for your wedding.
Want to read more rustic ideas for your wedding, take a look at:
Rent Wedding Tent and More
Finally, consider renting a wedding tent, reception tables, chairs, lighting, dance floor, and audio system. Few rental companies have it all, but J&J Tent and Party Rentals is your go-to source for everything you’ll need for a successful backyard wedding. Give us a call today at (919) 977-3691 to find out how we can make your backyard wedding the talk of the neighborhood!
