Creating a backyard wedding is a great way to save money, especially if you want a small ceremony. But realize that a backyard wedding still needs as much planning as a traditional event. Here are some tips to make sure your day goes smoothly.

1. Invitations
Because your backyard may not be able to host a lot of people, you can create DIY invitations or even have someone handwrite them for you! Calligraphy artists can work wonders with pen and ink, or if you are artsy and prefer to be more hands on, you can create your own! There are plenty of online printing companies who specialize in invitations. Just don’t do an e-vite!

2. Rentals
Rental companies have everything you need these days. They are a one stop shop for everything you need for an event. A tent, lighting, dance floor, tables, cloths and chairs are the minimum you would need. You may think you don’t need a tent but it will come in handy if it rains or if the sun is beating down. Your guests can move the chairs from the ceremony area to their table.

3. Flowers
To save money, choose flowers that are in season. It wouldn’t be wise to choose a summer blossom in the winter as they will most likely have to be brought in from warmer areas and therefore more costly. For centerpieces, use large clear jars for flower bunches at each table.

4. Catering and Dessert
Find a catering company that specializes in buffet style food. This way you won’t need a service team other than those behind the table. Or if you have a particularly small event, you can have the company deliver and set up the food only. For dessert, cupcakes are a popular choice and they can be decorated in your wedding theme colors! Plus you’ll be able to have more flavor choices to make everyone happy! You can also have your bakery create a small bride and groom cake for you to freeze until the next year.

5. Drinks
Save more money by buying drinks (even alcohol!) at your local bulk grocery store. Beer, soda, bottled water and wine are wedding staples.

6. Table Settings
Instead of having a formal place setting, your catering company can provide durable and even elegant looking plastic utensils and plates.

7. Bridesmaids and Groomsmen
An easy and affordable option for dressing them is to have the bridesmaids pick their own dresses in a color of your choice. The groomsmen can wear suits in the same color family (dark blue, black, brown, beige, etc.) For fun, have them wear socks in the color theme of your wedding. They can wear the same color tie to keep their looks cohesive. The bridesmaids can wear the same style of wedding heels or carry the same clutch bag to tie them together.

8. Photography
Saving money in other areas will allow you to splurge in wedding photography. This is one area you don’t want to skimp out on. These memories are priceless so make sure you hire a photographer you click with.

9. Bride and Groom Style
Your personal look can be as ornate or as simple as you like. To save money, look for off white or beige bridesmaid dresses instead of a bridal gown. You can even choose a lace sundress if you want to go a little more casual. Have a friend do your makeup or do it yourself, and keep your hair simply styled, with a crown of flowers or a braided up do with crystal bobby pins tucked in. Splurge on some beautiful crystal heels for a touch of glam for the ceremony and photos. You can change into a pair of flats or cute sandals for dancing! Don’t forget your wedding clutch! Your groom can wear one of his own suits, but invest in getting it tailored so that it fits perfectly. It’s a good time for him to get a new shirt and tie, anyway! Have him buy new shoes as well. He can always wear them after the wedding.

10. Guests’ Comfort
Don’t forget to provide enough toilet paper, paper towels and soap for the bathroom. A large garbage can or two can keep things neat. Don’t forget your wedding playlist! An iPod and a good pair of speakers will take care of that easily.
With these tips, you are sure to pull off an affordable, fun and elegant wedding in your own backyard! For affordable and elegant wedding clutches, corsets and shoes, visit Chicastic today!