Planning a huge, expensive wedding is not everyone’s dream, despite what romantic comedies want you to think. A lot of people want to be able to relax and actually enjoy their wedding day without stressing over the cost! Backyard wedding ceremonies have become a great option for people looking to get married with only their closest circle of friends and family. Try out these tips to make your backyard wedding a truly unforgettable experience!

Personalized Arch

Adding an arch to the end of your aisle will bring a little more structure to your backyard wedding setup. There won’t be any confusion over where to stand so your guests can get a good view, and there will be a natural focal point for the ceremony. Arches also make for beautiful wedding photos as you say your vows! Incorporate something that makes your arch personalized to you and your spouse. Favorite flowers, specific colors, or a unique material for the arch to be built out of are just a few of the ways to personalize your wedding arch!

Self-Serve Food and Drinks

A self-serve setup for food and drinks never turns out t well for large weddings. However, when you’re downsizing and having your celebration in your backyard, a self-serve setup will save money and make it feel more intimate! You can save money by hiring a catering service to make the food, instead of serving it and cleaning up afterward like at a traditional wedding. You can save even more by serving foods that don’t require a caterer! Having a barbecue, s’mores stations,  make-your-own sundaes, etc., will make it even more casual (and budget-friendly!)

Create a Dance Floor

Use a large rug, outdoor deck materials, or even a concrete patio to create a designated dance floor area. You can decorate this area with string lights to make it more intimate, and the speakers should be placed nearby. Then, when it’s time to dance, you won’t just be aimlessly swaying around the middle of the yard!

Photo Guest Book

Since your guest list is smaller, consider using a polaroid camera to capture a digital guestbook! Each guest can take a picture when the camera when they arrive. You’ll be able to add those pictures into your wedding album and look back on who you shared your big day with! Seeing someone is so much more special than reading from a list of names.

Contact Justice Lydon & Co

Smaller, intimate weddings have certainly gained popularity over the last few years, as we’ve all realized just how special it is to be surrounded by our closest loved ones! If you’re planning a backyard wedding ceremony and need a helping hand, contact Justice Lydon & Co today! We’re happy to offer custom small wedding packages, as well as Justice of the Peace ceremonies in the Boston area. We’ll help you plan a day that’s stress-free, unique, and unforgettable!