Different Types of Backyard Weddings

Different Types of Backyard Weddings
 
One of the best parts about hosting a backyard wedding is that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. These types of weddings allow each couple to infuse the entire day with their unique personalities. Maybe you’re a couple that wants all of the traditional aspects of a wedding. Or, perhaps you want a laidback evening party that focuses on drinking and dancing. 
 
Either way, here are a few different types of backyard wedding services that will create a big day you can feel great about. 
 
 
A Traditional Wedding
 
There’s no rule that says you have to sacrifice time-honored traditions when hosting your wedding in the great outdoors. 
 
Time & Place - 
 
Traditional weddings are all-day affairs that typically take place on Saturday afternoons and last until the evening. 
 
Ceremony - 
 
At a traditional backyard wedding, the ceremony will begin in the late afternoon. Don’t feel like you can’t incorporate conventional elements - like bible readings or a beloved pastor - into your outdoor wedding. 
 
Cocktail Hour - 
 
Usually, brides and grooms who are more conventional will want their portraits to be taken immediately following the ceremony. During this time, guests should be invited to gather for a 1-2 hour long “cocktail hour.” If hosting your wedding in a backyard, be sure to designate an area - preferably out of sight from where your photos are being taken - that features plenty of drinks, yard games, and even some light appetizers. 
 
Reception - 
 
Once the cocktail hour has concluded, guests should be invited to sit down for a formal dinner. How “formal” your dinner is can be totally up to you. With that said, expect to feed your guests a complete meal that includes an entrée and at least one side. Toasts from family members and members of the wedding party typically take place towards the end of the dinner service. The night will then usually conclude with drinking and celebrating on the dancefloor until the late evening hours. 
 
 
A Brunch Wedding
 
Brunch weddings are a great way to host a laidback wedding that is fun, unconventional, and doesn’t last all day. 
 
Time & Place - 
 
Brunch weddings typically take place on Saturday or Sundays. They begin in the morning and last until the mid-afternoon.  
 
Ceremony - 
 
At a brunch wedding, the ceremony will begin in the morning between 9:00am & 11:00am. While traditional elements are appropriate, a brunch wedding ceremony should be no longer than an hour in length.  
 
Cocktail Hour - 
 
A cocktail hour is perfectly appropriate for a brunch wedding - just expect the food and beverages offered to look a little different than usual. Coffee, mimosas, and pastries are a great way to keep guests satisfied while they mingle after the ceremony. 
 
Reception - 
 
Rather than traditional drinks and dancing, brunch weddings are a bit more low-key. Provide your guests with a full spread of your favorite breakfast foods and even more daytime-appropriate drinks or cocktails. The meal should conclude in the early afternoon and guests should expect to depart by the late afternoon, around 3 - 4pm. 
 
 
An Evening Wedding 
 
Couples who want a completely non-traditional approach will feel right at home hosting an evening wedding. 
 
Time & Place - 
 
Evening weddings typically take place on Friday or Saturdays after 5:00pm and can last until the late into the night. 
 
Ceremony - 
 
At an evening wedding, the ceremony will begin around 6 - 7pm. Couples should consider doing a first look and portraits before the wedding ceremony so that they can spend the rest of the night enjoying time with their guests. 
 
Cocktail Hour - 
 
While it’s appropriate to serve cocktails before a dinner service, be sure to keep it short so that the dinner doesn’t start too late. A 30-minute cocktail “hour” to transition between the ceremony and dinner is preferred.
 
Reception - 
 
Evening weddings tend to be all about celebration and fun, so don’t feel like these events have to be too formal. Some couples opt for food trucks, pig roasts, or family-style meals instead of “traditional” dinners. Focus on making sure your guests have a good time by offering plenty of food and libations throughout the entire evening. After dinner has been served, turn up the music and allow your guests to drink and dance into the late evening hours.