Using your backyard for a wedding ceremony is an intimate and meaningful option that offers a unique charm. Whether you envision a cozy, close-knit gathering or something a bit grander, there are several important factors to consider to make sure your day goes smoothly.
Optimizing Seating Layout for Maximum Comfort
When planning your seating arrangement, knowing the space available and creating a floor plan that is to scale is key to having a comfortable experience…
Aisle Width: An aisle that includes decor and allows for a comfortable bridal entrance is typically 8' wide. If your yard is on the narrow side, your guests can access their seats from the centre aisle with rows snug against a fence or house. A bridal aisle should not be narrower than 4’.
Triple Aisle Access: If you prefer more flexibility, a minimum of 2.5' is required for an outside aisle which gives guests access from both sides of the rows. This layout ensures easy movement but may offer less space for aisle décor.
Space between Rows: Your guests should have 18"- 2' of leg room space to access their seat and sit comfortably.
Space for Seating: Cramming people too closely can make them uncomfortable, especially if it’s hot outside. Whether seated in a chair or on a bench, allow 18 - 24” of space between guests.
Your Audio/Visual Setup
When outdoors, it is especially important to ensure your guests can hear every word of your vows. Speakers should be installed on towers to project to the back rows. Towers take up about 4 square feet, and you may need two at the front and two at the back, depending on your setup.
Enhancing Guest Comfort: Managing Bathroom Access and Home Traffic
General rule for bathrooms is one toilet per 50 guests. Consider whether you’re comfortable with that amount of traffic moving through your home or determine if you have the space for a port-a-potty to minimize guests in your home. Replenishing toilet paper and hand towels would be necessary as most house bathrooms aren't set-up for large repeat use in a short amount of time.
Some homes aren’t designed to handle large numbers of people, and you may want to set up clear boundaries regarding areas guests can access.
Enhancing Accessibility for All Users
You’ll also need to think about any guests with accessibility needs and whether your home is prepared to accommodate them.
Consider walkway and doorway widths, uneven ground and bathroom access.
Parking and Vendor Space Management
Parking for guests and vendors (like your photographer, DJ, and officiant) will be crucial. You’ll want to reserve space directly in front of your home or garage for those who need to park close.
Consider if there is sufficient street parking in the neighbourhood and anticipate most guests arriving in twos. Do you anticipate any issues with neighbors or businesses in the area? The last you’ll want to deal with is a by-law infringement or complaint. Additionally, think about where vehicles transporting the wedding party to the reception will park or do the pick up and drop off.
Contingency Plan for Unforeseen Weather Conditions
Since weather is unpredictable, you’ll want a solid backup plan in case of rain. Make sure to communicate this with your guests so they’re prepared. You may need to make this call with enough notice for them to adjust plans or relocate to an indoor option.
Transform Your Space: Hosting in Your Home
Having a wedding at your home comes with the added responsibility of managing your space. Here are some important points to consider:
Will you allow smoking or vaping in the yard or home? What about cannabis use?
Is your home insurance prepared to cover any potential damages, spills, or mishaps that could occur?
Have someone dedicated to monitoring your home during the event to handle any unexpected issues. This person can act on your behalf so you’re not pulled away from your celebration to handle a problem.
Rental considerations
While chairs are more commonly rented for weddings, benches can also be an option. They don’t significantly change your costs unless you’re making them yourself and eliminating transport fees. However, chairs are often easier to set up, as they can be done by one person, whereas benches may require two and are more difficult to navigate around tight turns or fences.
You'll also want to ensure access to the yard with a loading and unloading space made available.
Strategic Decisions: Balancing Two Locations
If you're hosting both the ceremony and reception at two separate locations, this will require additional coordination. It’s important to keep in mind the extra staffing or travel needed to manage logistics for both venues.
The Final Takeaway for your backyard wedding ceremony
There’s something truly special about hosting your wedding in your own backyard, surrounded by the comfort of home and the beauty of your personal space. However, it’s important to be prepared for the extra responsibilities that come with it. By managing your expectations, understanding the logistics, and planning ahead, you can ensure your day is memorable for all the right reasons.
If you need further assistance with your backyard wedding plans, please reach out for a free telephone consultation—we can help make sure everything runs as smoothly as possible!
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