Backyard Wedding Landscaping
Is a backyard reception tacky?
me and my fiance are on a tight budget for this wedding. We have a nice place reserved for our ceremony but would it be tacky to have our reception in my grandparents backyard? Its about an acre and they have it landscaped really nice. But would our guests think were being cheap since its not a regular establishment or something?
There is nothing “improper” or “inappropriate” about having an an outdoor reception as look as the site is “clean, neat, and tidy” and big enough to accommodate all of your guests (and their cars). I am assuming you plan to rent a tent if it rains, and, if not, then I hope your grandparents’ house is big enough to hold all of those guests if it does rain.
Contrary to popular belief, an outdoor wedding in someone’s backyard is not LESS EXPENSIVE than having it in a hotel or community hall or firehouse. You have to rent a tent, tables, chairs, porta potties PLUS you have to provide silverware, plates, glassware, lots of ice, and tablecloths PLUS you have to provide the food and beverages. Yes, all of those items add up quickly!
I am assuming you want to make a good impression so here’s a few things you should keep in mind . .
It is YOUR responsibility to provide the tables, chairs, place settings, food, and beverages. Do not let anyone tell you it is OK to have a potluck dinner or ask your guests to bring their own lawn chairs to YOUR wedding.
All pets (and their food dishes) should be put away that day. Guests have allergies and are offended by seeing pet food half eaten in a dish on the kitchen floor.
Make sure their is enough toilet tissue in each bathroom. And make sure the bathrooms are “neat, clean and tidy.”
Make sure your guests know that the reception is taking place outside (in case they need to bring a sweater or jacket).
Make signs directing your guests to the house or provide a detailed map to the house. There is nothing worse than getting twenty phone calls from guests stating, “We’re lost.”
Don’t start setting up for the reception two hours before the wedding begins. Try to get as much done as possible 24-48 hours prior to your wedding. You wedding day should not be filled with things “to do” at the reception site.
Answered by: A Certified wedding specialist / A Professional bridal consultant / A Wedding ceremony officiant
Landscape Beginnings