The Pros and Cons of Hosting a Backyard Wedding | Walnut Creek

Pro: Everything

Con: Nothing 

Okay, so the catchy title drew you in. Now that you’re here, I’d love to share some considerations for a backyard wedding. 

I think there are a LOT of pros to a backyard wedding. The cons on my list below are more things you should think about if you’re thinking about a backyard wedding. As a Walnut Creek wedding photographer, I’ve seen it all with backyard weddings, oh, and I got married at my dad’s house! 

Shall we discuss while we soak in this sweet backyard wedding in Walnut Creek, CA? Let’s do it! 

Pros and Cons of a Backyard Wedding | Walnut Creek, CA

Pros: 

Meaningful Location - Whether it’s your house, your parents’ house, or your grandparents’ house, your wedding venue will be meaningful for you. It’s a place with many happy memories, and you’re adding one of the best days of your life to the list. I think that’s pretty cool.

Catering Choices Galore - When you choose a wedding venue, you typically have to work with their vendor list (or the venue itself). With a backyard wedding, you can choose any caterer you want! The options are endless. 

Custom Decor - With a backyard wedding, you can bring your vision to life. There are no limitations. You can keep the decor super simple and let the property speak for itself or create a custom wedding day vision. 

Flexible Timeline - Wedding venues are slightly flexible but typically have some timeline guidelines. With a backyard wedding, you can do whatever you want. And since guests won’t be traveling between the ceremony and reception, your wedding day experience can be as short or long as you’d like. Another option is to elope or have a small courthouse ceremony and then have the reception in the backyard. The world is your oyster! 
Privacy - We’re in your own backyard, so it’s super private. No prying eyes in a public or semi-public space. You and your guests can fully relax and enjoy.
Pet Friendly - You can have pets at your wedding!! Bring your dogs! 

Cons: 

Planning for Weather  - While we typically have picture-perfect weather around here, it is a factor to consider when you think about an outdoor wedding experience. 

The Potty Situation - Where will guests pee? Are the bathrooms accessible? Will you need to rent portapotties? It’s something to consider but easy to figure out. 

Renting Everything - You’ll likely have to rent…well, everything. Tables, chairs, linen, silverware, etc. Again, this is figure-out-able, but something to think about! 

Are the Neighbors Cool - You’ll want to notify the neighbors about your party. If you’re not planning on having a dance, it’s still a good idea to give a heads up due to parking and the noise. Plus, you’d have to start your wedding ceremony while your next-door neighbor decides this is the PERFECT time to start chainsawing a branch. 

Your Backyard Wedding Photographer Bestie 

Backyard weddings are so delightful! Having photographed beautiful backyard weddings, I know firsthand how special and unique these celebrations can be. The intimate setting, personal touches, and relaxed atmosphere create the perfect canvas for capturing genuine, heartfelt moments. 

If you envision a backyard wedding that reflects your story and style, I’d love to bring my experience to your big day. Let’s work together to capture every memory in a place that truly feels like home. Contact me here.