It seems the perfect option.  It’s available ANY day, completely customizable, and the only proprietors are your parents or relatives.  The backyard beckons with so many charms, childhood memories of warm, perfect lazy summer afternoons glowing with sun and laughter, and the ease of being at home after marrying the love of your life.

Backyard weddings can be exactly what you picture, as long as you’re willing to be flexible, accept that the weather is completely out of your (or your parents, planner, or fiance’s) control, and be set to make some adjustments in your budget to accommodate extra things that you wouldn’t need to worry about if you chose a more traditional and established venue.

First and foremost, you’ll need to make sure any city permits or noise permits are covered for bringing in a big tent and having a crowd in your yard.  At the very least, tell your neighbors about the impending party, and send a reminder in the mail the week of the wedding.  If your guest count can handle it, inviting them is the most courteous option, especially if this is happening in a more populated area instead of a farm field.  That being said, spray for bees and mosquitoes as well.

Next, the logistics of parking.  If you have room to park people in the fields, do so.  Watch for low areas; if it does end up raining, you don’t want anyone getting stuck in squishy mud.  If at all possible, find a nearby parking lot and get a shuttle to take people the short distance.  The last thing you want to do is choke up the roads of your neighborhood with 150 cars.

There are other logistical pieces that are less considered, but are absolute musts!  Port-a-potties (Kohler Power has some great luxury ones) that are well-lit are important, as well as renting a dance floor and a stage for you to conduct the ceremony (essential so your guests can actually see you) and turn over to the band or DJ later in the evening.

A respectable caterer who is used to off-site catering and unusual situations, like working in a tent or under the stars is one of the most important vendor decisions you’ll make.  Be sure to ask what they do in the absence of power.

And finally, think of your guests.  Provide high-heel protectors for the ladies, and enough entertainment while you get intimate photographs so your guests will have something to do between the ceremony and dinner.

But after all the odd pieces come together, you will indeed have a wonderful, beautiful ceremony and reception, that speaks to you; it can be as formal or casual as you want, and you’ll have, weather willing, that wonderful hazy lazy sunny afternoon to whittle away the special day with your family and friends.