Backyard Micro Weddings
The wedding industry is changing. Couples are choosing to no longer fall to the pressure of having a large, costly wedding. A backyard micro wedding is a great option for couples who want to keep things small, want a sentimental ambiance, or want to keep their wedding on a budget.
A Micro Wedding is a middle ground between an elopement and a larger traditional wedding and typically has a guest list under 50 people including family and close friends. There are many benefits to a backyard micro wedding, including lower costs and convenience, but as with any wedding, there are details and situations to keep in mind when planning.
Benefits of a Micro Backyard Wedding
Dates are Flexible
Many venues have waiting lists, and book events 2-3 years well in advance of the wedding dates. A backyard wedding gives you the flexibility to choose the date you want although you need to keep in mind the weather and the time it takes to prep the space for such an event. A tent company can help you select the right tent you’ll need for the size of your backyard.
Intimate Guest Lists
A micro backyard wedding tends to be naturally more intimate, which is a perfect reason to keep the guest list small. Having a limited guest list gives you an opportunity to be able to prioritize spending time with each loved one at your wedding and focus your budget on other details like extra decor that you would not have been able to with a larger guest count.
Save Money
When you are getting married in your or a family member's backyard, you are dramatically reducing your cost because you are not having to pay for a venue, per-person corkage fees, etc. Because you are not at a venue, you’ll likely have to rent a tent, tables, chairs, etc, but because the overall size is smaller, it still outweighs the costs of a venue. With a smaller guest list, you can focus your budget on other details you may not have been able to otherwise, like splurging on a photographer you really like, top-shelf liquors, or an interactive and engaging DJ/MC to personalize the fun.
Sentimental Elements
The sentimental and intimate of a micro backyard wedding can not be replicated in a venue. There is nothing quite like saying “I do” in the yard that you or your fiance grew up playing in, or the backyard of the home you have made together. It is also a perfect excuse to include your furry friends in your big day. You don’t need to worry about extra deposits or the travel stress on your pet.
Logistics of a Backyard Wedding
Yard Maintenance
If you are planning a backyard wedding, you will want to start yard maintenance well in advance to give time for plants to fill out or space to be cleared. It is important that if you are having a tent, and/or dance floor that the space is as level as possible. You may even consider hiring a professional landscaping company to ensure the space is in tip-top shape for your event. If you are unsure of the right location on your property to place a tent, you can schedule a site visit with your rental company.
Permits and Insurance
As much as you hope that nothing will happen at your event, you still need to make sure that you are covered in case anything happens. Contact your home insurance provider to see what is covered and if you need to purchase any additional event insurance. You will also need to apply for a liquor permit through the Manitoba Liquor and Gaming Commission. If you are having a tent rental, you will also need to mark out any utility lines that may be in the area, including water lines, and electrical wiring, and apply for a line locate to be completed by Manitoba Hydro. Tentation Rentals takes care of all the line location applications.
Power and Electrical
Between additional lighting, sound systems, and heaters/fans you will need more power than most homes can supply. To ensure you don’t blow a fuse or put the whole block at risk for a power outage, rent generators to accommodate the extra power needs.
Before you go ahead and book a generator, be sure to talk to your caterer, DJ/Band, or rental company to find out how much extra power is needed.
Restrooms
If your guest list is over 20 people, you may want to consider renting additional restroom facilities. There are a few upscale options you can choose from if the unsightly green outhouse isn’t your cup of tea and avoid having people walking through your home. Here’s an example of what a luxury washroom trailer might look like.
