How To Set A Budget For Your Backyard Wedding
Backyard weddings are the perfect blend of personal charm and financial flexibility. Whether you’re dreaming of a simple vow exchange under a tree or a fully-decked-out tented affair, a backyard setting offers intimacy, control, and often—savings. But even with no venue fee, backyard weddings still come with costs, and creating a thoughtful budget is key to making your day smooth, memorable, and stress-free.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to set a backyard wedding budget with three tiers: Simple & Sweet, Mid-Range Magic, and All-Out Backyard Bash—so you can plan a day that feels just right for your style and your wallet.
Why Backyard Weddings Still Need Budgets
Before we dive in, let’s talk about the “free venue” myth. While hosting your wedding at home can save thousands, you’ll still need to factor in things like:
• Rentals (tables, chairs, tents, restrooms)
• Catering or food service
• Lighting and power sources
• Parking and accessibility
• Clean-up crews or trash services
That said, the flexibility of a backyard wedding gives you more control over where you do want to spend. Let’s dig into the different tiers.
Tier 1: Simple & Sweet ($1,500 – $5,000)
Perfect for: Couples who value intimacy, want to DIY, and don’t mind keeping things casual.
What This Might Include:
• Guest Count: 10–30
• Ceremony Setup: DIY arbor or floral backdrop, folding chairs or benches
• Reception: Potluck or food truck, drinks in coolers, casual seating with picnic blankets or mismatched chairs
• Decor: DIY florals, thrifted or borrowed tableware, string lights or candles
• Attire: Off-the-rack dress/suit or something you already own
• Photography: Friend with a good camera or a short hourly package from a professional
• Music: Bluetooth speaker + a curated playlist
• Additional Costs: Minimal rentals, maybe a port-a-potty if necessary
Tips to Stay on Budget:
• Ask guests to bring a dish or drink
• Borrow tables, chairs, and décor from friends/family
• Use your natural landscape as the main backdrop
Tier 2: Mid-Range Magic ($5,000 – $15,000)
Perfect for: Couples who want a curated day without going overboard.
What This Might Include:
• Guest Count: 30–75
• Ceremony & Reception Setup: Rental tables and chairs, simple tent or shade structure, basic lighting and power
• Food & Drink: Local catering or buffet-style meal, bartender for beer/wine/signature cocktails
• Decor: Professionally designed florals for key moments (bouquets, centerpieces), intentional tablescapes, string lights or lanterns
• Attire: Mid-range designer or custom look
• Photography: Full-coverage package from a professional
• Music: DJ or live acoustic musician for ceremony and reception
• Other Services: Restroom trailer, trash removal, parking attendants if needed
Extras to Consider:
• A small wedding planner package or day-of coordinator
• Custom invitations or signage
• A cozy lounge area with rented furniture
Tier 3: All-Out Backyard Bash ($15,000 – $40,000+)
Perfect for: Couples who want the comfort of home without sacrificing a full wedding experience.
What This Might Include:
• Guest Count: 75–150
• Tent & Rentals: Large tent with flooring, high-end tables and chairs, lounge furniture, luxury restroom trailer
• Food & Drink: Full-service catering with plated meals, open bar, signature cocktails, late-night snacks
• Decor & Florals: Full floral design including installations, custom linens, hanging lights or chandeliers, curated rentals for every space
• Attire: Designer gown/suit, multiple outfits, glam squad for hair and makeup
• Photography & Videography: High-end team for full-day coverage and storytelling
• Entertainment: Full band or DJ with dance floor, live performers, photo booth
• Planning Services: Full-service wedding planner, timeline management, and vendor coordination
• Guest Comfort: Valet parking, shaded areas, water stations, bug repellent, and heaters/fans based on the season
Luxe Touches to Elevate the Day:
• Custom-built bar or ceremony arch
• Fire pit and s’mores station
• Personalized favors
• Drone video footage
How to Build Your Backyard Wedding Budget
1. Start with Your Guest List
More people = more rentals, food, drinks, and logistics. Trim your list to align with your ideal experience and budget.
2. Prioritize Your Non-Negotiables
Want a killer dance party? Invest in music. Obsessed with photography? Book your dream photographer first. Build the rest around your top 2–3 must-haves.
3. DIY vs. Delegate
Decide early what you want to tackle yourself and what’s better left to pros. A backyard wedding can become overwhelming if too many things land on your plate last-minute.
4. Buffer for the Unexpected
Add a 10–15% cushion for things like rental fees, clean-up costs, weather accommodations, or last-minute needs.
Final Thoughts
Backyard weddings can be just as special (if not more!) than traditional venues—but like any celebration, they thrive with a solid plan and a realistic budget. Whether you’re keeping things super chill or going all out, your backyard wedding should be a reflection of you—your story, your people, and the kind of love you’re building. No matter your tier, remember: it’s not about the money—it’s about the memories.
