Is a DIY backyard wedding easier and cheaper than renting a wedding venue?

DIY Backyard Weddings in Southwest Florida

Planning a DIY backyard wedding can be seen as a more budget-friendly option for a wedding.  Here are some things to take into consideration if you are thinking this is the way for you to go. Often, it is actually more cost effective to rent a wedding venue such as Oaks of Devonaire as many of these expenses are provided by the venue.  Many people indicate that there is an added level of stress as in addition to the upcoming wedding, the logistics of renting/buying/arranging everything to transform a barren back yard into a wedding-worthy area, and then transforming it back to a backyard can be daunting.

1. Venue and Space Considerations

Before diving into the details, assess your backyard space. Consider the following:

– Does your HOA, county, city, or neighborhood allow backyard gatherings? Do they require a special permit? This will need to be researched in the very beginning of your planning

– Capacity: How many guests can comfortably fit in your backyard? Make sure there’s enough space for the ceremony, dining, dancing, and other activities. 

– Layout: Think about how you want to arrange tables, chairs, and other elements. An open space that allows for flow is ideal.

– Privacy: If your backyard is visible to neighbors or passersby, consider how to create a more intimate setting with decorative barriers or landscaping.  Will you need to invite the neighbors to offset the disruption to their peace and quiet you wedding may cause?

Accessibility: Will guests and vendors enter through the home? Through a side gate?  Is there Handicapped accessibility?

How will you limit areas off-limits to your guests?  Are there breakables/valuables in your home? Will private areas, such as sleeping quarters need to be locked?  Are all medications secured?

2. Time Considerations for Landscaping

If your backyard needs some sprucing up, plan ahead:

– Landscaping: Depending on the scope of work, landscaping can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. Schedule any planting, trimming, or major changes at least 2-4 weeks before the wedding to allow plants to settle in. Think about the photographer’s needs for your wedding.  Are there areas or features that would be unattractive in your photographs?

– Maintenance: Ensure that your lawn is mowed and any weeds are pulled a few days before the wedding. A fresh cut will enhance the overall look of your venue.

3. Portable Restrooms

One of the most often overlooked aspects of a backyard wedding is restroom facilities. Depending on the number of guests, your home may not suffice. Things WILL get flushed, and residential toilets and septic systems are not designed to accommodate feminine hygiene products, paper towels, etc.  Someone will need to be designated to unclog, or ‘snake” the septic lines if this happens. Here are some options:

– Rental Options: Look into renting portable restrooms. There are various options available, from standard units to luxury restrooms with running water and air conditioning. Be sure to have a hand washing station with soap, towels, and waste paper receptacles.

– Placement: Strategically place the restrooms away from food and the main event area, but still easily accessible.

– Signage: Clearly mark the location of the restrooms with signs to guide guests.

4. Tables and Chairs

Comfortable seating and dining arrangements are crucial for your guests’ experience. Consider the following:

– Rental Services: Look for local rental companies that offer tables, chairs, linens, and other essentials. Make sure to reserve them well in advance. Ask about delivery fees and delivery/pick-up schedule. 

– Types of Tables: Decide between round or rectangular tables based on your guest count and preferred layout. 

– Chairs: Ensure the chairs are comfortable, especially if you have a lengthy ceremony or dinner. Also, ensure the tables and chairs will be on a stable, even surface.

5. Time Considerations for Setup

The setup is a critical part of the wedding day, and timing is everything:

– Setup Day: Plan to begin setup at least 1-2 days before the wedding. This gives you ample time to arrange tables, chairs, and decorations without feeling rushed.

– Coordination: Assign a team of friends or family to help with setup. Create a checklist to ensure that everything is completed in a timely manner.  Florida wind can play a part in your décor.  Opt for low table decorations and plan on securing or weighting tablecloths in some manner.

6. Inclement Weather Preparedness

Florida weather can be unpredictable, with sudden rain showers or intense sun. Here’s how to prepare:

– Tents: Rent a tent for shade or as a backup for rain. Ensure it’s large enough to accommodate your guests and any additional activities such as dancing.

– Flooring: If you opt for a tent, consider adding flooring to prevent mud and provide stability, especially if your backyard has uneven terrain.

– Heat Management: If your wedding is during the hot summer months, provide fans, shaded areas, and water stations to keep guests cool.

7. Time Considerations for Breakdown

After the celebration, it’s important to plan for breakdown and cleanup:

– Breakdown Team: Organize a team to help with breakdown and cleanup immediately after the event. This could be the same group that helped with setup.

– Timing: Plan for at least 2-4 hours after the event to dismantle everything, pack up rentals, and clean the area.

– Cleaning Your Home: If you plan to have guests inside your home, allocate time for cleaning both before and after the event. Enlist help from family or friends to make this process quicker.

8. Catering and Food

Food is a significant part of any wedding celebration. Consider:

– Catering Options: Decide whether you want a caterer or if you’d like to prepare some dishes yourself. 

– Food Safety: Ensure that food is kept at appropriate temperatures, especially in the heat. Consider renting chafing dishes or coolers.

– Beverages: Set up a drink station with water, non-alcoholic options, and alcoholic beverages if desired. A signature cocktail can add a personal touch.

9. Music and Entertainment

Keep your guests entertained with music and activities:

– Sound System: Rent a sound system or hire a local DJ. If you’re on a budget, consider creating a playlist and using a Bluetooth speaker. Be sure to check with the local officials to ensure that any local noise ordinances are followed.  Touch base with your neighbors to advise them of the upcoming wedding, and the fact that there will be music, and noise generated by your guests.  This will help cut down on noise complaints.

– Games: Set up lawn games like cornhole or giant Jenga for guests to enjoy during cocktail hour.

10. Parking/transportation

Many neighborhoods have limited space for guest and vendor parking.  Will you need to arrange for a shuttle to transport guests to and from the house?

11. Final Touches

As the big day approaches, don’t forget the small details:

– Timeline: Create a detailed timeline for the day, including setup, the ceremony, and the reception.

– Wedding Party Prep: Designate roles for friends or family to help with setup, coordination, and cleanup.

– Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit with essentials like first aid supplies, sewing kits, and extra makeup for touch-ups.

Conclusion

While A DIY backyard wedding in Florida can be a beautiful and memorable experience with careful planning and consideration, many times choosing to host your wedding at an established wedding venue ends up being less stressful, and more economical. If you are looking for any of the following, come see us in Arcadia, Florida at Oaks of Devonaire: Rustic wedding venue, Country wedding venue, Wedding venue near Sarasota, wedding venue near Port Charlotte, Wedding venue near Fort Myers, wedding venue near Cape Coral, Barn wedding venue, Budget wedding venue.

When making your decision, we suggest that you support local and independent businesses.