Are you thinking of hosting a backyard wedding? It's a great way to save money and have an event people will remember fondly for years to come.
But, a backyard wedding can also cause stress if your yard isn't quite up to snuff. And it may wreak havoc on your home and yard if you're not careful. Here are a few steps to avoid problems while still enjoying a beautiful backyard venue.
Lay Down Sod
Most homeowners would agree that they want a lush, green lawn to greet guests. But if your lawn isn't quite ready for its close-up, you have two basic options.
First, you could spend the next few weeks (or even months) greening up the lawn with fertilizers and extra watering and weeding. Or, you could just order up some sod and get an immediate result. If you're looking to reduce pre-wedding stress and protect the yard, opt for some fresh sod so that you can turn your attention to other aspects.
Cover Parts of the Lawn
If your sod or new grass hasn't had a lot of time to grow solidly in the ground yet, add a layer of protection over high-traffic areas. A dance floor, for instance, provides a solid surface for the bridal party to have their ceremony without sinking into the grass in high heels. The dance floor then provides a good place for dancing during the reception, of course.
Choose a protective floor that's significantly smaller than your lawn and place it in the center so that you don't cover up your lush new lawn either. Instead, you create a centerpiece with it.
Put Up Natural Protectors
What should you do if you don't want guests trampling all over your flower bed or your veggie garden? In this case, you'll need to help direct traffic organically. Install well-defined pathways with a solid floor to walk on. Guests will naturally gravitate toward them.
Use large pots of flowers and grasses to beautifully block off parts of the yard that you don't want people in. Focus outdoor lighting in areas you want people to mingle while leaving the distant parts of the yard less lit — and less inviting.
Add Lots of Lighting
Protect visitors and your yard by adding plenty of additional lighting options. Modern outdoor lighting creates amazing decor options for backyard weddings. You could choose from string lights, Edison or market light bulbs, torches, lanterns, solar stakes, uplights, and even glow-in-the-dark stones.
Have fun with temporary lighting, but make sure you light up the wedding area — the dance floor, ceremony location, paths, and bathroom facilities — well. The more guests can see what they're doing, the safer they'll be while moving around in your yard. And with safer movement, your yard is protected from accidents and wandering guests.
Rent for Comfort
Many people who host outdoor weddings don't want everyone coming and going through the house all day long. You can help avoid this by renting outdoor accessories to provide for people's comfort — without them having to go back inside your home.
You should definitely consider renting high-end restroom facilities, perhaps trailer-based bathrooms. If getting married in the winter, install a tent or put up sail shades in case of precipitation. And don't forget the patio heaters for warmth in the evening. Get extra rental chairs to accommodate everyone and add some comfortable lounge seating for the reception so guests can hang about.
The first step in preparing your backyard for that big wedding is usually to green up your lawn. At Novasack Turf Farms, our sod varieties are sure to fit your style and your budget. Visit today to see what we can do to help create the wedding venue of your dreams.
