By Nicholette Marbley
Editors note: This the second article in new series about weddings
Backyard weddings are a great way to save money. The pressure of finding the perfect venue, the headache of wedding costs, and hidden fees can be a burden. No one would blame you if you wanted to have the ceremony and reception at your home.
Cost efficiency is a huge perk of having a backyard wedding. Inviting as many people as you want, bringing fur babies and basically having the privilege to do whatever you want, it’s another bonus.
Here is our list of the top 10 backyard weddings essentials you’ll need this year.
- Multiple large packs of disposable medical masks. Even though, you are in the comfort of your own home; you don’t want your wedding to be remembered as the big event that got everyone sick. You create wonderful memories, not crappy ones.
- Tents are a must have for your backyard wedding. In Northeast Ohio, the weather is as predictable as guessing the winning numbers to Tuesday nights lottery. Be prepared for everything, any unexpected rain, hail, snow, or the overbearing sun by pitching tents.
- Pochos are essential for any Ohio backyard wedding. Mother Nature’s infamous mood swings are too rampant to not pack one. (You could always purchase rain ponchos in bulk at the dollar store/dollar tree for your guests.)
- Electricity is a must at any outside event, not just weddings/receptions. Make sure you have enough outlets for the DJ, food warmers, or cell phones, anything else you want to have at your wedding that uses electricity.
- A landscaper/handyman is essential for any backyard wedding. We’ve all seen Meet The Fockers and the catastrophic wedding rehearsal blunder they had with the plumbing. Before you set up anything in your backyard consult with your local handyman/landscaper.
- No backyard wedding is complete without a portable dance floor. Dance your heart out without fear of getting judged by venue staff. The dance floor is probably one of the most important things in the list and the costliest.
- Chairs, chairs, and more chairs. Besides cost, the guest capacity is another reason why couples opt to have a backyard wedding. Don’t give anyone a reason to complain, buy chairs!
- Backup shoes to wear with your wedding dress on your big day is extremely important. You don’t want dirt or a broken heel to ruin your big day.
- Our DIY-article list is a must have if you’re having a backyard wedding to save money. You can find our tutorials on our DIY section of our magazine.
- Lastly, a happy go lucky attitude is essential to your big day. Keep in mind, you’re getting married in your backyard. It’s not a professional setting. If things go wrong, laugh it off, or film it, even become a trending video on TIK TOK or Instagram.