Planning a wedding is an exciting time, filled with dreams of creating the perfect day to celebrate love. For budget-conscious couples or those yearning for a more intimate and personalized atmosphere, a backyard wedding is an appealing alternative to traditional venues. But how much does a backyard wedding actually cost?
While it may seem like a more budget-friendly option, there are costs and considerations that can add up quickly. This guide breaks down common expenses.
Why Choose a Backyard Wedding?
A backyard wedding can have several advantages beyond just cost savings:
- Personalization: A more intimate setting makes it easier to craft a day that reflects your unique style.
- Cost Control: You have flexibility over your budget and can decide where to splurge or save.
- Convenience: No commuting or guest transportation needed—everything is onsite!
However, it’s not as simple as “free venue, no expenses.” Let’s dig into the numbers.
Detailed Breakdown of Your Backyard Wedding Budget
1. The Basics You’ll Need to Rent
Even without a venue fee, you’ll need to budget for rental items to create an inviting and functional space for your guests. Typical costs include:
For 100 guests you can count on spending at least the following on rentals
- Tent Rentals: $2,000
- Chairs & Tables: $8 per chair=$800; $15 per table (x16)=$240
- Linens: $15(x16) per tablecloth=$240
- Dinnerware: $8 per place setting (plates, glassware, utensils)=$800
- Portable Bathrooms: $250 x 3=$750
- Arbor backdrop for ceremony $100
Total cost of rentals = $4930
2. Decor and Ambiance
Creating the right atmosphere can involve purchasing or renting decor, lighting, and florals:
- String Lights: $50 per strand
- Floral Arrangements: $500–$2,000 (depending on how elaborate you go)
- DIY Decorations: Could be free or cost hundreds, depending on your creativity and materials.
3. Entertainment and Audio
- Audio/Visual Equipment Rental: $300–$1,000 (microphones, speakers, etc.)
- DJ or Live Band: $700–$2,000+
At least $1500 The DJ is included at The Barn at Blueberry Hill.
4. Food and Drinks
Catering costs will vary depending on how casual or formal your dining setup is, but plan for:
- Catering Services: $25–$100 per guest
- DIY Buffet or Potluck: More affordable, but additional costs for serving equipment may apply. We have a list of caterers that are affordable and provide good food and service. See our page http://www.blueberryhillweddingbarnelkinnc.com/friends-barn/
- Bar Setup: $10–$30 per guest, DIY or bartender services. A bartender is included at The Barn at Blueberry Hill.
5. Unexpected Costs
Don’t forget some additional costs that are easy to overlook:
- Permits: Some municipalities may require permits for parking, noise, or tents (~$100–$300).
- Cleanup Crew or Trash Removal: $200–$500
- Weather Contingencies: Wind, rain, or other elements could mean additional rentals or replacements.
Real-Life Case Study: When Backyard Bliss Becomes a Challenge
A backyard wedding promises an idyllic day, but unexpected challenges can arise. One bride’s mother shared her experience of hosting a backyard ceremony in 2001.
The family invested over $5,000 in chairs, tables, linens, and tent rentals. However, straight-line winds wreaked havoc, destroying two tents, audio equipment, tableware, and the entire reception setup.
Thankfully, with the help of family and friends, the wedding proceeded, but the unforeseen weather added stress and additional costs. This example highlights the importance of planning for contingencies and being ready for surprises.
Tips to Stay on Budget and Stress-Free
- Plan for the Worst: Always have a backup plan for weather, such as securing an indoor option. We have the option of hosting your wedding in our climate controlled barn if the weather is less than pleasant on your wedding day.
- Shop Local: Look for locally owned wedding venues to support your community. We have all the items you will need to make your wedding the day of your dreams.
- DIY Smartly: While DIY elements can save money, don’t overextend yourself. Focus on small, manageable projects.
- Use Multi-purpose Decor: We can move the decor that is used for the aisle outside to centerpieces on the tables which will save you.
- Work with Friends and Family: Assign small responsibilities to loved ones to ease the workload and stress on your big day.
Is a Backyard Wedding Right for You?
A backyard wedding can be an incredible way to celebrate your special day, but it requires thoughtful preparation and budgeting. By accounting for costs like rentals, food, and weather contingencies, you can avoid surprises and focus on what matters most—enjoying your wedding day!
If you chose to have everything including lodging at one location then we can help you at The Barn at Blueberry Hill.
The Barn at Blueberry Hill is 50 miles west of Winston Salem and 75 miles north of Charlotte. Check out our location at http://www.blueberryhillweddingbarnelkinnc.com/location/
Thank you for stopping by our blog. If you are looking for a vintage authentic 75 year old barn to have your wedding check out our available dates at http://www.blueberryhillweddingbarnelkinnc.com/pricing Call us at 336-366-0577 or email us at bberryhill@surry.net to schedule a tour.
I would like to give a shout out to other locally owned venues across the country.
