Even three years ago it wasn’t necessarily the ~thing~ to say “I do” at home, but during the early days of the pandemic, when we had to limit indoor guests to 50 people (remember that?) everything changed. Backyard weddings are finally getting the attention they deserve, and tbh, we’re here for the trend. A backyard bash can be super chic when done right, and, thanks to so many couples and vendors posting their outdoor wedding creations on the main grid, it’s clear that they’re hotter than ever this wedding szn.

Not only can you personalize just about every detail with a backyard wedding—like framed photos hanging from tree branches or having your pup stand in as the ring bearer—but you won’t be held down by strict venue rules on everything from lighting and decor to catering and beverages, which means…FREEDOM! Pick any date, have any number of guests, hand select your vendors, whatever. you. want. Depending on the size of your backyard—or your neighbor’s yard, parents’ yard, or even your neighbor’s parents’ yard—you could have an intimate wedding with an elaborate tablescape or host the grand garden fête of your Bridgerton-obsessed dreams.

Scroll through these IG images for some backyard wedding ideas…you’ll def find all the inspo for your own amazing outdoor wedding, from creative couples who have managed to transform their simple backyard ceremonies into the dreamiest affairs.

[1]

Combine Your Altar and Runner

This sentimental runner and altar combo is the perfect backdrop for a rustic yet chic backyard wedding. I meannn, it’s made of long-distanced love letters between the couple, so ya can’t top that. Rent one, make one, or borrow one…the point is to definitely have something this gorgeous standing behind your vows.

[2]

Use. Benches.

Not only can you fit more people into your ceremony space by using benches instead of chairs, but they’re also super easy to move to the side of the yard to create the space you’ll need for dancing. Keep them rustic or dress them up with aisle decor (i.e., lanterns, flowers, candles, etc.).

[3]

Show off Your Family Tree

Here’s one way to at least make that giant tree in the middle of your yard part of the wedding. But seriously, hanging framed photos of your family from a tree or wrapping the trunk in your favorite Polaroids turns nature into decor in the best way possible.

[4]

DIY a Roof

Yes, you’ll want those bright night stars to shine down on your wedding guests. But trust us, you’ll also want these disco balls and pampas grass “chandeliers” hanging overhead, too. (Just imagine how stunning your first dance photos will turn out.)

[5]

Bring in Your Favorite Food Trucks

Best part of the wedding food truck trend? No waiting in a 20-minute lunch-hour line to get your favorite tacos. Bring the truck right into the backyard as your mobile caterer, or just have them pull up front for easy access all night.

[6]

Customize Your Seating Chart

Seating charts can feel so structured and stiff, but not this custom bookshelf with guests’ names on the spines. It’s such a fun way to add personality to something so pre-arranged.

[7]

Extend the Dinner Tables

We’ll toast to family-style meals set up on long banquet tables beneath hanging lanterns and tree branches all day (night?) long. I can almost feel the grass on my bare feet while swooning over this backyard feast!

[8]

Light up the Table

Seated alfresco dinners are taking the place of buffet lines and party receptions, so put the focus where the food is by shining some light (as much as you can find!) on the table. Drape string lights, use vintage candelabras, amp up that flood lighting, whatever it takes to make that baby shine.

[9]

Play with Your Cake Display

Sure, you could totally have a traditional cake table…or you could create something more memorable like this cake swing. We vote cake swing.

[10]

Invite Pets

Oh, you thought we meant just dogs? Obviously let your four-legged fur bb walk down the aisle with you (no need to get venue approval for pets!), but why not let a trained owl fly in your rings, too? A little Harry Potter, yes, but we’re into it.

[11]

Go with the Flow

Having a pool in the backyard isn’t a dealbreaker…in fact, it can actually be a game changer for your wedding decor. Float candles in the water or use extra centrepieces around the sides to make it part of the overall aesthetic.

[12]

Include a Low Lounge

Find ways to bring the indoors out with low lounge furniture that can create a chic picnic vibe. Go bohemian with blankets inside a lit-up yurt or tent, or opt for parasols and pillows for daytime weddings.

[13]

Mix and Match Your Tablescape

Yes, another tablescape, picking up on the trend?! The jewel-toned glasses blend into the decor on this dreamy banquet table, with just enough mix to the table’s match.

[14]

Make Room for the Dance Floor

Dance floors are non-negotiables in our book, whether that means you rent a wooden one or just section off a portion of the yard for when the mood strikes.

Via Cosmopolitan US