7 Backyard Budget Wedding Ideas

Portrait of a happy loving couple on a background of exquisite decor
Vladimir - stock.adobe.com - illustrative purposes only, not the actual people

You Don’t Need A Ballroom To Have The Wedding Of Your Dreams

Bride and groom on their wedding ceremony
Petro – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only, not the actual people

Who says you need a fancy ballroom and a five-star caterer to have the wedding of your dreams? A backyard wedding on a budget can be just as magical. With a little creativity, your backyard can be transformed into the perfect setting for your big day.

Here Are 7 Backyard Wedding Ideas To Help You Tie The Knot In Style

The gorgeous bride and groom stand right in front of the wedding altar outside. Girl holding a bouquet of flowers.
Ivan – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only, not the actual people

From DIY decor to budget-friendly bites, these seven backyard wedding ideas will help you tie the knot in style without draining your wallet. Let’s make your wedding day unforgettably beautiful!

1. DIY Decorations

Groom hugs bride tender while they dance on the backyard in the evening
IVASHstudio – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only, not the actual people

In your backyard, there aren’t built-in decorations like at an all-inclusive venue. But you can always make your own while keeping costs low. Use twinkling string lights, lanterns, and candles to create a magical vibe. You can also upcycle old jars and vases for flowers. Additionally, wooden pallets can be repurposed as signs.

For affordable items, start by shopping at thrift shops, dollar stores, and online marketplaces. Host a fun crafting night with friends and family members for help with assembling and organizing wedding decorations.

2. Get Ready In Your House

Portrait of a happy loving couple on a background of exquisite decor
Vladimir – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only, not the actual people

The best part of having your wedding in your backyard is that you can just get ready in your own house. Everything is right there when you need it.

If you need to change your shoes or fix your hair, you can run back into the house. You can enjoy all the comforts of home while preparing for your big day, and hopefully, that helps ease the jitters.

3. Potluck Style Catering

Close up of bridal party dishing up catered buffet food at casual outdoor wedding
Crystal Madsen – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only, not the actual people

Catering can really take up a large part of your budget, so you’ll have to get innovative here. You can provide the main course and beverages while guests bring appetizers and desserts.

Instead of a wedding cake, have a bake-off, where guests bring desserts. You can opt for a BBQ or even a picnic as these might come in at a lower price.

4. Have A Tent Handy

Wedding in a white tent by the lake. Beautiful flowers. luxurious wedding decor in white.
Stanislav – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only

Make sure to have a backup plan for your wedding day because the weather is often unpredictable. Rent a tent or set up a covered area in case of rain or excessive sun. Portable fans or heaters can help guests stay comfortable.

5. Involve Your Pets

Little dog at the wedding
Yulia – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only, not the actual people

If you’ve got dogs, cats, or other pets, involve them in your wedding. Since it’s a backyard wedding, animals are allowed. They can be the flower girl, ring bearer, or be part of the wedding party.

Just imagine how cute it would be to dress them up in little outfits! Once they’ve served their role in the wedding, they can head back in the house to rest.

6. Incorporate Yard Games

The bride holds the football in hands on the football field
BildwerX Photography – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only, not the actual person

Put out some fun games for people to play during cocktail hour, such as pickleball, beanbag toss, ladder ball, Jenga, and croquet. It’s another way for guests to entertain themselves if they don’t want to dance or need a break.

7. Have A Campfire

A serene evening outdoor fire pit surrounded by two cozy chairs, perfect for relaxation and warmth.
ArtistiKa – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only

A campfire is always a blast, no matter the occasion. There’s just something about the glow of the firelight and smoke that makes the night feel exciting. Guests can gather around the campfire and roast marshmallows while listening to music.

Emily  Chan is a writer who covers lifestyle and news content. She graduated from Michigan State University with a ... More about Emily Chan

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