Planning a backyard wedding is a fantastic way to create a memorable celebration without the huge price tag that comes with traditional venues. While you’ll save money on venue costs, it’s important to remember that there are other expenses you might not have thought of, like catering, rentals, and decor.
From personal experience, I know how quickly these costs can add up. I’ll break down everything you need to know about the costs involved in a backyard wedding, share practical tips, and help you plan a beautiful day without breaking the bank.
Why a Backyard Wedding Could Be Your Most Affordable Option
When I got married, we spent a lot of time choosing the venue, and frankly, it wasn’t cheap. I remember looking at the final bill and realising how much of our budget went just to securing the space. In hindsight, I wish we had explored a backyard wedding. If you’re looking to save money, it’s a fantastic option, but it’s not without its costs if you’re not careful.
Backyard weddings offer a unique kind of charm and flexibility that traditional venues can’t. The main draw? You can host a beautiful, personal wedding without the hefty price tag that typically comes with renting a venue. You can curate your day in a way that feels true to who you are as a couple. It’s your space, your rules.
Take my couple of clients from Melbourne’s outer suburbs, for example. They managed to save thousands by opting for a backyard wedding instead of a venue. Their total costs for the day came in at about $12,000, with the venue being free. They had to make decisions around catering and rentals, but it worked out beautifully.
The Real Cost of a Backyard Wedding: What You Need to Know
A lot of couples go into the planning process thinking a backyard wedding is going to be “cheap,” but that’s not always the case. While the venue costs are indeed much lower (or even zero), you might find that other costs creep up.
From my experience, here’s a rough idea of what you can expect depending on the size of your wedding:
Small Weddings (Under 50 guests)
For smaller, intimate gatherings, you can expect to pay anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000. While the guest list is smaller, you’ll still need to rent a few essentials like a tent, tables, chairs, and hire caterers.
Medium Weddings (50-100 guests)
For weddings with 50-100 guests, the cost generally ranges from $10,000 to $30,000. At this size, you’ll be paying for larger rentals, catering, and possibly a professional photographer and entertainment.
Larger Weddings (100+ guests)
A large backyard wedding can easily surpass $20,000, and in some cases, even exceed $50,000. The more guests you have, the more complex the logistics become. Large tents, catering for a big crowd, lighting, parking, and rental equipment all add up quickly.
In essence, a backyard wedding can be just as expensive as a traditional venue wedding if you aren’t careful with budgeting.
Breaking Down the Expenses: What You’ll Need to Budget For
Planning a backyard wedding involves more than just inviting people over for a celebration. You need to make sure your yard is prepared to be a wedding venue, and that means budgeting for rentals, food, and all the extra logistics that you might not initially think of.
Venue and Property Prep: Hidden Costs That Can Add Up
When you host your wedding at home, the space doesn’t magically transform into a wedding-ready venue. In fact, there are some significant costs involved in getting your backyard ready for the big day.
I worked with a couple last summer in St Kilda who had a stunning property, but they didn’t factor in the ground level issues that made setting up a dance floor tricky. We had to bring in landscapers to level the area, and that set them back a couple thousand dollars.
Landscaping and Cleaning
If your backyard needs a little TLC before the big day, you might need professional landscaping services. Whether it’s trimming hedges, clearing weeds, or sprucing up the garden, expect to pay between $500 and $2,000 for these services.
Repairs and Alterations
If you need to fix up any fences, gates, or walkways, those costs add up too. Repairs can range from $500 to $2,000, depending on the extent of work required.
Trash and Recycling
A big oversight that I’ve seen in many backyard weddings is not budgeting for waste management. You’ll need trash and recycling bins for your guests. Rental bins can cost between $100 and $500, depending on the number of people and the scale of your event.
Power, Restrooms, and Parking: Overlooked Costs to Consider
One thing I’ve learned over the years: it’s easy to forget about the logistical details that are essential for a smooth backyard wedding. Power, restrooms, and parking may seem minor, but if you don’t plan ahead, they’ll cause headaches.
Portable Toilets
If your house doesn’t have enough bathrooms for all your guests, you’ll need to rent portable toilets. Depending on the level of comfort you want, these can cost between $100 and $300 each. For a more comfortable option, a restroom trailer will cost significantly more.
Generators
Your house may not have the electrical capacity to power all the wedding essentials, especially for catering, lighting, and entertainment. Renting a generator can cost between $100 and $500, depending on your power needs.
Parking
Limited parking can be an issue if your backyard is in a residential area. You may need to arrange for offsite parking and a shuttle service for guests. Budgeting for parking attendants or rental spaces will cost an additional $200 to $1,000 depending on your location and the number of guests.
Catering, Décor, and Entertainment: The Big Ticket Items
When it comes to the real expenses of a wedding, catering and entertainment are the two biggest categories. In a backyard setting, while you can save money on the venue, these elements can still add up quickly. Having worked with several couples who hosted their weddings at home, I can tell you that catering and décor can sometimes make up 40% or more of your budget.
How Much Should You Budget for Catering at Your Backyard Wedding?
Catering can be one of the most significant portions of your backyard wedding costs. The beauty of a backyard wedding is that you can choose your style and decide how extravagant you want to get with your meal options. I worked with a couple who decided to go with a food truck for a quirky, fun vibe – and it ended up being a huge hit, all while saving money.
Here are some of the typical catering options and what they might cost:
Formal Plated Dinner
For a formal plated dinner, expect to pay around $80-$150+ per guest. This is a great option if you’re aiming for an elegant atmosphere, but remember, plated dinners also require more staff for serving and higher rental costs for tableware and linens.
Casual Buffet
A buffet-style meal can save you a lot compared to plated dinners. Buffet prices generally range from $20 to $60 per guest. It’s an excellent choice for a more relaxed vibe and can allow guests to pick and choose what they want to eat.
Food Trucks
Food trucks are growing in popularity for backyard weddings. Not only do they add a fun and unique element to your wedding, but they also allow you to keep costs low. Expect to pay anywhere from $15 to $35 per guest for food trucks. The bonus? They’ll handle the cooking and cleanup too!
Wedding Décor and Flowers: Transforming Your Backyard Into a Dream Venue
Your backyard is a blank canvas for décor, but don’t forget to factor in the costs to transform the space into something magical. I’ve worked with couples who used flowers and décor creatively to make their backyard feel like a dream venue. While you save on the venue, you’ll likely spend on decorations, flowers, and other aesthetic details that make the space feel special.
Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
Flowers
For flowers, expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $3,000 depending on the scale of your floral arrangements. Bouquets, boutonnières, and table centrepieces are typically the main costs here. You can save money by opting for in-season flowers, or by choosing a more minimalistic approach to florals. I’ve had clients who used local, native Australian flowers for a budget-friendly yet stunning look.
Decorations
Simple decorations like linens, table runners, and chairs can add $200-$500 to your budget. However, the real cost comes with larger elements like archways, drapes, and chandeliers. If you want to go big, budget between $500 and $1,000 for these larger decor items. Keep in mind that DIY décor projects (such as homemade centrepieces or signage) can save you money.
Lighting
When you’re hosting an evening wedding in your backyard, lighting is essential. Depending on the vibe you want to create, lighting can range from $100 for simple string lights to over $1,500 for more elaborate setups. I’ve helped couples with simple yet beautiful fairy lights wrapped around trees, which added an intimate glow without breaking the bank.
Entertainment and Photography: Capturing Your Big Day Without Breaking the Bank
While the venue costs are low, don’t skimp on entertainment and photography. These are the two elements that can either make or break the atmosphere of your wedding day. I’ve seen couples go all out on food and décor but fail to budget enough for a decent photographer, only to regret it later when the day’s memories are less than perfect.
Here’s what you can expect to pay:
Photography
Expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 for professional photography. The price will vary depending on the photographer’s experience, the number of hours you require, and the packages they offer. For a full-day package with all the important moments captured, the average cost in Australia is around $3,000.
Videography
If you’re planning on having a wedding video, the costs range from $1,000 to $3,500+. The average cost for wedding videography in Australia is around $2,700. Videography can really elevate your memories, but it’s important to weigh the cost against your overall budget.
Entertainment
Entertainment costs depend on whether you hire a DJ, live band, or other performers. DJs typically cost around $1,500 on average, while a live band can range anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000+ depending on their popularity and length of performance.
Other Potential Hidden Costs and How to Avoid Them
When you’re planning a backyard wedding, there are always a few costs that sneak up on you. These hidden costs can quickly eat away at your budget if you don’t plan for them. I’ve worked with many couples who had to adjust their budgets halfway through the process because of these unexpected expenses.
Overtime and Staff Meals
Weddings often run longer than expected, which can lead to overtime charges from your vendors. Whether it’s a photographer staying longer or a caterer serving late, you’ll need to factor in these extra hours. Additionally, if you’re hiring vendors like caterers or a band, you may need to provide meals for them, which isn’t always included in their fees.
Overtime Charges
Make sure to ask your vendors about overtime charges upfront. These can be anywhere from $50 to $200+ per hour.
Staff Meals
You’ll also need to consider meals for your vendors. While it’s common to provide meals for the crew working at your wedding, some venues and caterers charge extra for this service. Be sure to ask about meal costs when negotiating with caterers or entertainment vendors.
Rentals and Waste Management
You might think you’ve covered everything, but you might still need to rent additional items like tables, chairs, and linens, or even consider the cost of waste management for cleanup after the wedding. Rental items can add up quickly, especially if you need to rent large items like a dance floor or tent.
Rentals
Rental costs typically range from $500 to $5,000, depending on the size and type of event. You can often save by borrowing items or looking for deals from suppliers offering package deals.
Waste and Cleanup
One often overlooked cost is waste management. If your venue is in your own backyard, it’s your responsibility to arrange for trash pickup. You may also need to hire cleaners to tidy up afterward. This can add between $300 and $1,000, depending on the size of your event.
Tips for Planning and Budgeting Your Outdoor Wedding
Planning a backyard wedding isn’t just about saving money. It’s also about making sure that everything runs smoothly and that you’re able to enjoy your day. Here are some tips from my years of experience helping couples plan their backyard weddings.
Start Early: Plan Ahead to Save Money
One of the best ways to ensure your wedding goes smoothly is to start planning early. The sooner you book your vendors and make decisions, the more likely you are to score discounts and secure the best deals. Make sure to book caterers, photographers, and other critical vendors early to avoid last-minute price hikes.
Set a Realistic Budget and Track Expenses
Keep track of every single expense, no matter how small. I recommend using a spreadsheet to monitor your budget and make sure you stay on track. Be realistic about the costs and set aside a buffer of 10% for unexpected expenses.
DIY Projects and Creative Solutions
Consider using DIY solutions to save money. For example, you can make your own invitations, signage, or even wedding favours. When I worked with a couple from Brunswick, they made all their centrepieces out of mason jars and flowers they picked up at a local farmers’ market. Not only did this save them money, but it also gave their wedding a personal touch.
Making Your Dream Backyard Wedding a Reality Without the High Costs
A backyard wedding is an incredible way to celebrate your special day without the hefty venue costs, but it does come with its own unique set of challenges and expenses. The key to making it affordable and stress-free is all in the planning. If you’re willing to put in a little elbow grease, do your research, and stay organised, your backyard wedding can be both beautiful and budget-friendly.
Remember, it’s not about cutting corners but about making smart choices that align with your vision and budget. By being strategic, you can have a gorgeous, personalised wedding without the massive price tag that often comes with traditional venues.
The most important advice I can give when planning your backyard wedding is to start early. It might seem like a simple option, but there are a lot of moving parts, from rentals to catering and everything in between. The earlier you get everything locked in, the more control you’ll have over your budget and the less stressed you’ll be as your big day approaches.
Next, set a realistic budget and stick to it. Track your expenses and make sure you’re allocating money to the areas that matter most to you. For example, if photography is a priority, allocate more there and trim elsewhere. Think about what truly matters to you, and don’t get distracted by trends or pressure from others.
Finally, enjoy the process. Your backyard wedding is a reflection of who you are as a couple. The joy of planning a wedding at home is that you can make it uniquely yours. The small, personal touches—whether it’s a DIY décor project or a family recipe for dessert—are what will make your day unforgettable.
