Don’t hesitate to opt for a backyard Auckland wedding – it’s a unique choice indeed.
Creativity often stems from necessity. Backyard weddings, although not entirely novel, are still a relatively novel concept for many. Prior to the recent pandemic, few had contemplated the idea of hosting micro weddings in their own backyards. In the face of change, we must adapt, and one of the innovative ways people have embraced change is by hosting delightful backyard weddings.
Intimate, highly customizable, and imbued with a comforting ambiance, backyard weddings have emerged as a refreshing trend, akin to wearing shorts during summertime. They have swiftly become one of our cherished trends. But how can you organize one? What makes them preferable to other wedding venues? What are the intricacies of hosting a backyard wedding? While we may not be wedding planners, fortunately, we can connect you with the experts.
"Planning a wedding amidst a pandemic is no simple feat," noted Rebecca from Blume & Darling. "Given the ever-changing rules and regulations, a backyard wedding can offer a fantastic solution to alleviate some of the planning stress."
What is Backyard wedding ?
A backyard wedding is an event held in the intimate setting of a home, either your own or that of a loved one. It's a cherished choice for a variety of reasons, offering a unique blend of personal comfort and convenience. Originally, the primary aim was to infuse the warmth and familiarity of one's home into the special wedding day. However, in today's rapidly changing circumstances, backyard weddings also serve the purposes of safety and adaptability.
According to Rebecca, "A backyard wedding offers tremendous flexibility in the planning process, enabling you to potentially adjust dates and guest numbers to suit changing circumstances. It also serves as a blank canvas, allowing you the freedom to style and realize your wedding vision."
The essence of backyard weddings can be summed up in one word: flexibility. They provide you with the freedom to tailor every aspect, including dates, decorations, and guest lists, resulting in uniquely personalized wedding celebrations that unfold in a space filled with cherished memories.
Advantages of Backyard Weddings:
Cost-Effective:
Backyard weddings are a cost-efficient choice, offering significant savings on venue rental, furniture, styling, and various deposits that would be required otherwise. While there are still expenses to consider, such as parking, decorations, and catering, many of these costs are inevitable for any wedding. Backyard weddings also exude a relaxed and informal atmosphere that can simplify planning, making it effortless and casual if that's your desired vibe.Safety:
Safety is a paramount consideration, especially in uncertain times. Backyard weddings provide a high level of control over the guest list, movement, and activities. You remain within the secure confines of your own home throughout the event, eliminating concerns about uninvited staff or strangers that external venues may entail. This is particularly reassuring for those who prioritize safety in the context of ongoing health concerns, such as the pandemic.Cozy and Convenient:
Backyard weddings are exceptionally convenient. You're never late, everything is easily accessible, you have a built-in dressing room, and you know where all the snacks are stashed. Plus, you have the flexibility to adjust the date as needed, offering tremendous peace of mind. The coziness and convenience of a backyard wedding are unrivaled, alleviating a significant amount of pressure for couples who choose to celebrate in the comfort of their own home. It also means that guests can stay in one location throughout the day, enjoying a day of intimate celebration with champagne and exclusive privacy.DIY-Friendly:
Backyard weddings are highly conducive to DIY (Do-It-Yourself) creativity. With much of the setting already under your control, they offer ample opportunities for personalization. Whether you opt for an outdoor garden wedding or an indoor celebration, you can landscape, decorate, and style to your heart's content. Backyard weddings are the epitome of DIY-friendliness, providing the canvas for couples to put their hearts into crafting a truly unique and personalized wedding day.Sentimental Value:
There's an unparalleled sentimentality associated with celebrating your wedding in a home, whether it's your own, a loved one's, or a place with special memories. Home is where the heart is, and this sentiment can add a profound dimension to your wedding day. Backyard weddings tap into the emotional depth of your personal history, allowing you to create lasting memories in a space that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly evening. Additionally, the uniqueness of hosting a wedding at your own home adds an undeniable cool factor to your special day, making it a one-of-a-kind experience.
Challenges of Backyard Weddings:
Permissions:
Hosting a backyard wedding involves navigating various legalities and permits. To ensure everything runs smoothly, you'll need to obtain a marriage license and register your marriage after the ceremony. It's crucial to check with your homeowner's association and local government to determine any required permits for hosting a backyard wedding. This may include permissions related to music and celebration to comply with noise restrictions. Additionally, securing the appropriate parking permits for guests and commercial vehicles is essential. You should also verify compliance with fire codes and zoning regulations. Lastly, it's courteous to inform your neighbors about your wedding day, as loud sounds can disrupt their peace, and maintaining a good relationship with your surroundings is important.Preparation:
Backyard weddings demand a higher degree of preparation compared to traditional venues because you need to consider landscaping and the overall condition of your home. If any part of your celebration takes place outdoors, you'll need to plan landscaping activities in advance, such as grooming shrubs and growing flowers for the ceremony. DIY projects, like constructing a homemade wedding arch, may also require additional time and effort. To ensure a seamless wedding setup, you'll need to give your backyard (and any potentially messy areas of your home) extra attention and care.Privacy:
Maintaining privacy can be a challenge at backyard weddings. Guests may unintentionally wander into areas of your property where they shouldn't be. To prevent this, consider using ropes or signage to clearly delineate off-limit areas. It's important to establish boundaries in advance and communicate them effectively. Additionally, be prepared to politely decline guests' requests to stay at your home after the celebration, as maintaining your personal space is essential. Provide a list of nearby hotels or Airbnb accommodations as alternatives.Parking:
Parking can be a major logistical challenge for backyard weddings, particularly in densely populated areas. It's crucial to consult with local transportation authorities to understand any parking permits required for your wedding day. If parking space is limited, consider organizing a shuttle service for your guests to minimize parking-related issues and ensure their convenience. 
Additional Considerations for Backyard Weddings:
Clean up
After your backyard wedding, there will likely be a substantial amount of trash to manage, including empty bottles, tissues, boxes, ribbons, and more. Consider setting up labeled trash cans throughout the event to encourage guests to dispose of their waste properly. You can also hire additional help to maintain cleanliness during the celebration. Arrange for garbage collection with a local waste management company or plan a drop-off to ensure the proper disposal of wedding waste. Some catering companies may offer trash removal as part of their services.Wedding Insurance:
Purchasing wedding insurance is a crucial expense, especially for backyard weddings. These insurance plans cover a range of scenarios, including cancellations, postponements, personal liability, equipment rentals, and even honeymoon interruptions. Customize your insurance to match your specific needs and budget. Wedding insurance provides peace of mind and financial protection in case unexpected incidents or accidents occur. Prices for wedding insurance packages can start as low as $250.Backup Plan:
New Zealand's unpredictable weather means having a backup plan is essential. Prepare for adverse weather conditions by having marquee tents, tarps, or umbrellas on hand if your wedding is outdoors. Alternatively, designate an indoor location as a backup in case of inclement weather. Communicate your contingency plan to guests well in advance so they can make appropriate arrangements. Ensure that any tents or coverings are properly ventilated and equipped with fans or heaters to maintain a comfortable temperature.Rentals:
Rentals play a vital role in backyard weddings, from extra cutlery to lounge furniture. Work closely with your wedding planner and stylist to identify all necessary rental items well in advance. This may include catering equipment, floral arrangements, seating, portable restrooms, garbage removal services, parking accommodations, and alcohol storage. Carefully plan and coordinate with rental companies to ensure you have everything you need for a successful event.Power:
Hosting a backyard wedding often requires additional power for lighting, audiovisual equipment, and other electrical needs. Residential power sources may not be sufficient to support these demands, so it's essential to invest in a generator. A professional-grade generator can ensure that your wedding remains well-lit and functional throughout the event. Keep in mind that relying solely on candlelight may not provide adequate illumination, and fire codes may restrict the use of candles. Prioritize hiring a reliable generator to meet your power requirements and prevent disruption