How to Host a Backyard Wedding on a Budget
A beautiful day doesn’t have to break the bank.
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming — especially when every Pinterest board looks like it cost $50,000. But here’s the truth: you can create a meaningful, magical wedding right in your own backyard, without going into debt.
Whether you’re getting married yourself or helping a friend or daughter plan her day, here’s exactly how to make a backyard wedding work on a budget (and still feel like a dream).
1. Choose the Right Backyard (Yours, a Friend’s, or Even a Rental)
If you or someone you know has a beautiful outdoor space — even a simple one — you're halfway there. Look for:
A flat area for seating
Some natural shade or space for a tent
A pretty backdrop (trees, barn, garden, river, etc.)
💡 Bonus Tip: Consider short-term rentals (like RiverView Cottage!) for hosting smaller weddings or getting ready. You can often rent a gorgeous space for a fraction of a traditional venue.
2. Keep the Guest List Intimate
The easiest way to save money? Invite fewer people.
Small weddings (30–75 guests) are more personal, manageable, and affordable.
Think:
Family
Close friends
People who have truly walked life with you
You’ll spend less on food, tables, chairs, and decor — and more time actually enjoying your guests.
3. Borrow, Rent, or Repurpose Decor
No need to buy everything new. Use what you already have — or ask your community to borrow:
Mason jars, candles, and string lights
Folding tables and chairs
White sheets or tablecloths for linens
Wooden crates, vintage ladders, and galvanized tubs
🛍️ Amazon decor finds:
4. DIY the Food (Or Keep It Simple)
You don’t need a five-course plated dinner. Here are options that work well for backyard weddings:
BBQ buffet or taco bar
Brunch spread
Family-style potluck
Food truck or local small-town caterer
Use disposable plates and real silverware for a classy-but-easy combo.
5. Skip the Fancy Cake
A $500 cake? No thanks.
Bake a simple layered cake at home
Ask a friend who bakes as a gift
Do a dessert table with cupcakes, cookies, or donuts
💡 Budget Tip: A plain Costco cake + fresh flowers = wedding magic.
6. Keep the Ceremony Simple & Sweet
Set up a small archway, a few rows of chairs, and let the scenery do the work. You don’t need a big production to make the moment feel powerful. Focus on:
Personal vows
Music that matters to you
A heartfelt message from someone who knows you
🛠️ You can build your own archway with scrap wood or rent one locally.
7. Hire Help for What Matters Most
Where you should spend your budget:
A photographer (even just for 2–3 hours)
A sound system/microphone
A day-of coordinator (or trusted friend to run things)
If you’re saving money everywhere else, it’s okay to invest in the one or two things that help the day go smoother and last forever.
8. Use a Printable Wedding Planner
I created a budget-friendly printable wedding check list You can grab it here: 👉 [link to your digital download]
Final Thoughts
A backyard wedding isn’t second-best. It’s intimate, meaningful, and a true reflection of what matters — celebrating love surrounded by the people who know you best.
You don’t need a big venue or a big budget to have a beautiful beginning. Just a little creativity, some helping hands, and a whole lot of heart.