Best Backyard Wedding Planning Guide (Free Checklists Inside)
Keep your wedding day low-key, cool, and chill by hosting it in your backyard or someone else’s property. What’s more fun than saving money on the venue and enjoying a flexible date and a relaxing atmosphere? Plus, decorating the space can be a lot of fun!
We’ve crafted this simple checklist to assist you in seamlessly managing your wedding preparations. Additionally, we’re happy to provide you with a printable Free Backyard Wedding Planning Checklist for the flawless execution of your special day. You can easily customizable it to match your backyard wedding vision.
10-12 Months Before the Wedding
- Determine your budget and set your financial plan.
- Choose a suitable date and time.
- Create a preliminary guest list.
- Research and book key vendors, such as photographers, caterers, florists, and wedding planners.
- Check local regulations and inquire about necessary permits for hosting an event in your backyard.
- Gather inspiration for the overall wedding theme and style.
8-10 Months Before the Wedding
- Finalize your guest list, considering your backyard’s capacity.
- Send out save-the-date cards or send them online.
- Book other vendors, such as a DJ or live band, officiant, and rental companies for equipment and furniture.
- Design your ceremony and reception layout, considering factors like seating, dance floor, and dining areas.
- Research and book accommodations for out-of-town guests.
- Begin dress shopping and consider attire for the wedding party.
6-8 Months Before the Wedding
- Order or make your wedding invitations.
- Finalize contracts and secure your selected vendors.
- Plan for parking and transportation, considering nearby parking lots or arranging shuttle services.
- Create a backup plan for inclement weather, such as renting a tent or identifying an alternative indoor venue.
- Discuss your catering preferences and menu options with your chosen caterer.
- Research and book a cake baker or explore alternative dessert options.
- Decide on lighting, decor, and floral arrangements for the ceremony and reception areas.
Announce your love in style with our exquisite selection of wedding invitations. The designs can easily fit or personalize any wedding theme based on your unique wedding details. Our Elegant Parisian Pink, Blush Pink, and Peach Chic Pastel invite amazed many couples.
4-6 Months Before the Wedding
- Send out wedding invitations, including RSVP cards.
- Meet with your caterer to finalize the menu and any special dietary requirements.
- Arrange for additional rentals, such as a dance floor, stage, or outdoor heaters.
- Hire or assign someone as a day-of coordinator to oversee the logistics on the wedding day.
- Plan for music and entertainment, discussing playlists or song choices with your DJ or band.
- Order wedding rings and schedule a fitting for any necessary alterations.
- Hire a professional makeup artist and hairstylist, or practice doing your own hair and makeup.
2-4 Months Before the Wedding
- Follow up with guests who must RSVP to finalize your guest count.
- Create a detailed timeline of wedding day events, including the ceremony, reception, and key moments.
- Confirm all vendor arrangements, including delivery times and setup details.
- Plan and schedule pre-wedding events, such as rehearsal dinners or bridal showers.
- Schedule a final dress fitting and make any necessary adjustments.
- Purchase or create wedding favors or welcome bags for your guests.
- Confirm details with your chosen photographer, discussing specific shots and desired styles.
- Obtain any necessary marriage licenses or legal documents.
1-2 Months Before the Wedding
- Finalize the seating arrangement and create place cards.
- Coordinate with your caterer for final headcounts.
- Confirm the layout and setup of the backyard venue, including lighting and decor.
- Schedule beauty appointments for the bride, bridesmaids, and mothers.
- Compile a list of must-have photographs for your photographer.
- Plan and rehearse the ceremony with your officiant and wedding party.
- Purchase any remaining accessories, such as shoes, jewelry, or a veil.
- Arrange for someone to clean the backyard before the wedding day.
To creatively guide your guests to their seats, you can check out our stunning collection of seating charts. Some of the popular choices include Burgundy Blush Fall Horizontal and Tropical Beach Vertical charts.
1 Week Before the Wedding
- Reconfirm all details with vendors, including arrival times and setup instructions.
- Pack a wedding day emergency kit with safety pins, tissues, and a sewing kit.
- Gather all necessary items for the wedding day, such as the rings, marriage license, and vows.
- Arrange for the setup and decoration of the backyard venue.
- Conduct the wedding rehearsal, ensuring everyone knows their roles and responsibilities.
- Relax, rest, and pamper yourself before the big day.
Wedding Day
- Wake up early and have a nutritious breakfast to keep your energy up.
- Start getting ready according to your planned timeline.
- Allow ample time for hair, makeup, and getting dressed.
- Follow the timeline for the ceremony, reception, and other events.
- Enjoy your special day, spend time with loved ones, and savor every moment.
- Delegate tasks to trusted friends or family members to handle any last-minute issues.
- Stay hydrated, eat well, and take breaks as needed.
- Capture beautiful memories through photos and videos.
- Have a designated person oversee logistics and coordinate with vendors.
- Celebrate and dance the night away!
After the Wedding
- Send thank-you notes to guests and vendors for their participation and support.
- Arrange for the return of any borrowed or rented items.
- Review and organize wedding photos and videos.
- Handle any outstanding vendor payments or post-wedding tasks.
- Reflect on your magical day and cherish the memories created.
You can adjust this checklist based on your preferences and unique circumstances. Stay organized, communicate effectively with your vendors and guests, and enjoy the process of planning your backyard wedding.
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