Backyard weddings! Maybe you are planning one. Well, lets talk about the things you need to think about and consider when planning your nuptials at home. Think about this, when you book a venue, you are getting a building, with a rain alternative. You are also getting tables, chairs, bathrooms, parking. When you have your wedding at home, you have to bring all of that in. A tent is necessary, because the weather may not cooperate. In addition to rain, it may be a blistering hot day and the tent provides shade.
No matter how many bathrooms your home has, it won't accommodate your wedding guests- besides, do you want 100 people parading in and out of your home all day? So, you need to rent bathrooms. Now, these are not like what you see at construction sites or at a carnival. These are really nice bathrooms, with an attendant. However, you need to have a place to set them up and a water source.
Parking- well, if you have acres, like my casual couple here, there is plenty of space for cars. But, if you live in a neighborhood where street parking is your only option- like another wedding I did, there may be trouble with your neighbors. So, think about using a shopping center, an open space or some other large space for cars and hire a shuttle to bring guests to the house.
Permits are another consideration. Noise ordinances, alcohol being served to a large group, the bathrooms, the catering trucks- all of these things should be discussed with your township or city before you hire anyone!
Caterers usually have the insurance for handling your event. But, if you are planning for the family to provide the food and your friends to serve the alcohol, you may want to invest in the proper insurance. If anyone leaves your wedding behind the wheel and hurts or kills someone after drinking at your wedding, you are liable. Not really something you want to have to face after celebrating your wedding.
Setting up and cleaning up. The good thing about having a wedding at home is there is no pressure or time constraint. You can set up days before and you can break down the day after. And, make allowances for extra trash with your trash company. Most caterers do all the cleaning up. And, some take their trash with them. Make sure you discuss with your caterer about clean up and what happens with the trash. You may have to make special arrangements with your trash removal company beforehand.
So, here are examples of three of the home weddings I have done. Maybe this will help you with planning your big day.
Adrianna and Paul had a formal affair at her aunt's home. As you can see, the patio was a perfect place for cocktail hour and dinner in the tented yard was beautifully executed. Whereas, Marilyn and Jason were getting ready to say I Do for the second time and had just bought their farm. They wanted to welcome their guests to enjoy their wedding vows along with welcoming everyone to their new home. They have several acres, complete with horses, chickens and various other four-legged friends- everyone was invited. Even the chicken got into a picture or two. So, here you have a formal affair, a beautiful, country wedding and a casual gathering of family and friends.
Whatever you have dreamed about your wedding at the special place you grew up or live now, these tips will keep you from wedding day disasters. As always, feel free to reach out to me with questions and HAPPY PLANNING!
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