Planning Portland Backyard Weddings
Backyard weddings are some of my favorite weddings to document. I love that backyard weddings feel personal, intimate, laid back and fun; which always makes for great photographic moments. Pulling off a great backyard wedding requires a little bit of planning, so let’s talk about what you need to make it happen and also discuss all of the benefits of a backyard wedding.
The Benefits of a Backyard Wedding
It’s Budget Friendly- Using a private backyard will definitely help you save a little money by avoiding venue fees. Not only do venues have general rental fees, some also come with food and drink minimums that may be out of your budget. Using a private space gives you the biggest flexibility to make your day fit within your ideal budget. You may even consider investing your savings into some yard upgrades like landscaping, or a pergola which can add a special touch to your wedding day. You can also splurge on another aspect if your planning, like a wedding coordinator, which can make the whole process easier.
Don’t Compete for Dates - With the wedding season being relatively short (especially in cities like Portland, OR), you can avoid competing for those prime weekend dates. This way you can even plan your wedding around those prime 3-day weekends which your guests will truly appreciate.
Add a personal touch- Hosting a wedding in your own home can add an extra personal touch. Inviting all of your guests in your space gives you the change to be where you are already most comfortable. Even if the yard you chose belongs to someone else, it can be a great way to add even more memories to a place you already hold dear.
Requirements for a Backyard Wedding
And now that you know some of the perks for a backyard wedding, let’s talk about what you need to pull it off! Before you get too far down the planning process, here are some great things to check off your list.
Pick the Right Yard: You may think your own backyard is the only option, but I’d suggest you look wider if needed. The yard of a family or friend might just be the right space. You want to make sure the yard is large enough for your plans, be it a sit down dinners or big dance party, and you want to make sure the yard is large enough to accommodate all your guests. A well landscaped yard with nice shaded areas is always a big plus!
Guest List: Make an appropriately sized guest list. Really lean into the idea of an intimate wedding and relish in the fact you will be able to spend quality time with all your guests. You want your guests to be comfortable during your wedding, and that starts as soon as they arrive.
Amenities For Guests: Thinking about parking isn’t glamorous, but it’s one of the first things your guests will deal with. If there aren’t enough parking spaces to accommodate your guests, suggesting car pools or providing your guests with a ride code from Uber or Lyft can save them the small hassle. Another non glamorous items: bathrooms.
Amenities for Vendors: Your vendors may have different needs, anywhere outdoor power access to possible kitchen access. Talking to your vendors before your wedding will ensure they can perform their best.
Talk to your neighbors: Ideally your great friends with your neighbors and they might even be invited to your wedding, but if they aren’t, make sure to have a chat with them about your plans. And do it with plenty of time. You might even go a step above and give your neighbors gift cards to a local restaurant or a movie so they can enjoy them the evening of your wedding. This might feel like an extra expense, but I’m sure they will appreciate the effort and it can really be a great investment in keeping a cordial relationship with neighbors.
Talk to your insurance: You might be taking on some extra liability by hosting a large event on your property, so play it safe and check with your insurance company. Some vendors may require liability insurance as well which can be easily added to your policy on a temporary basis.
City Ordinances: Your City might have restrictions on hosting private events in terms of occupancy, liquor laws or even quiet hours. You want your event to go off without a hitch and this is one of the things that can be easily accommodated. Let’s say your neighborhood has quiet hours that start at 10, now you know how late you can party and maybe transfer the festivities to a local bar for a smaller after party of even just transition the night to a more intimate setting around a fire pit with your remaiing guests.