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The Backyard Wedding – Is it really less work?

Backyard weddings. Once thought of as cheap and tacky, these weddings have been the butt of many jokes. But as of late, more and more couples are embracing the ‘Country’ atmosphere. While many wedding venues offer 5 star service, breathtaking architecture, prime rib, chicken picatta, and filet of sole, backyard weddings serve up something different from the norm. A relaxed atmosphere.

So what kind of couple does a backyard wedding? Every couple! From the wealthiest couples to the bluest of blue collar, backyard weddings have one thing in common. Family. If you love the atmosphere of a close encounter with your closest family and friends, this is a great option for you. But it’s more than just slapping up a $50 canopy from Wal-Mart, plugging in an iPod, and your drunk Uncle John burning meat on a grill.

There are a TON of things to think about before your backyard wedding.

1. The Weather. Mother nature does what mother nature wants. If you’re planning your wedding in July, expect a few surprises. High humidity and thunderstorms are very common during the mid-summer months. This is where solid shelter can make all the difference. If you’re going to rent a tent, spare no expense. A proper events rental company will have everything you need to make sure that your guests stay dry and comfortable.

2. Dinner on the rocks. Backyard weddings are typically a little more casual than weddings held at a wedding venue. But don’t forget tables & chairs! These rentals could get costly depending on how many guests you invite.

3. You’ve got the POWER. Hiring a DJ, or wedding band? They need LOTS of power. Be sure to have plenty of dedicated and easily accessible power readily available for your entertainment. If you’re having your wedding catered on site, they will need power as well because they are bringing a mobile version of their commercial kitchen with them.

4. Not so fine china. Disposable flatware has come a long way. You can purchase strong disposable flatware from your event rental or party vendor that will give you just the right amount of class while making clean up a snap!

5. Get TRASHED. Make sure you have enough trash receptacles for the amount of guests you are inviting. Put them in obvious places such as the bar and around the tent to make sure that your property stays looking clean and tidy.

6. Find your inner green thumb. With all of the effort you’re putting in to shelter, seating, food, drink, and entertainment, don’t forget about your wedding photographer. Having some nice flowers and landscaping to use for your photos is a must.

7. Restrooms. Homes are typically built for families of 5 and under. Make sure your home can take the extra people. If you’re not sure, renting portable toilets might be your best option.

8. Bugs really bite during a wedding. If you live in a highly rural area, you might consider treating your property with a bug repellant. Head to your local home improvement store and ask what will work best for your needs.

All in all, you get what you put into it. A backyard wedding is a lot of work but, if you do it right, it can be AMAZING!


The backyard wedding of Ali & Aaron

 

 

Wedding RSVP - Save the date

Wedding RSVP – Getting your wedding guest list together quickly

Wedding RSVP – Getting your wedding guest list together quickly

The date is set. The venue chosen. You’ve got your dress and your decor taken care of. It’s time to see who’s coming to the wedding.

RSVPs are a crucial part of wedding planning. Not just for budgetary purposes but it really makes you think about who you want to be present for your special day and where you draw the line. So, why is it so difficult to get people to respond? Simple. After the hundreds you spend in invitations, meal cards, rsvp cards, and then thank you cards and parting gifts, people seem to lose those little cards. They end up in the pile of mail on the kitchen table, or maybe locked in a drawer or glove compartment to respond to later and is eventually out of sight and out of mind. So, how can you get your RSVPs returned quickly, efficiently, and economically?

Social media and a wedding website is your answer. Platforms like Facebook and Google plus give you the ability to create event pages and invite the friends and family and track your RSVPs right on your screen without having to sift through paperwork and making a database. Sites like Weddingwire are also a great tool as they offer wedding websites that have apps and tools to help you get your RSVPs in order.

It’s user friendly, highly efficient, and lots of fun! Personalize your page with little tidbits about what your guests can expect at your wedding. Include pictures of theme ideas and some history on how you and your future spouse met to where you are today.

Technology grows everyday. Embrace it and get the most you can from it. It just could make wedding planner easier than before.