Guide to Plan a Backyard Micro Wedding
What you will learn.
Dreaming of a beautiful, intimate backyard wedding but don’t know where to start? This complete guide is your answer. In just a few minutes, you’ll discover how to plan a stunning and personal celebration without the stress or the massive price tag.
We’ll walk you through everything from creating a smart budget and navigating your guest list to preparing for unpredictable weather and making your backyard look absolutely magical for your photos. Let’s start planning your perfect, simple day.
Table of Contents
What is a micro wedding?
A micro wedding typically involves anywhere from just two guests (the witnesses) up to around 30 to 40 guests. Of course, there’s no strict definition—some consider 50 guests still a micro wedding, but I view 50 guests as more of a small wedding.
Micro Wedding vs Backyard Micro Wedding: Where should a micro wedding take place?
When planning your micro wedding, you could choose a dedicated wedding venue, or a fancy restaurant (if you want a certain standard), or embrace the small scale and go off-grid.
Some couples, like Amanda and Alexis, choose to host theirs in their backyard, which makes planning… straightforward; some would say easier.
In summer, you might pick a scenic backdrop such as a lake, river, beach, rolling hills, or mountains. Some even elope on a paradise island and throw a big party afterward.
Who would host a micro wedding?
Couples choose micro weddings for many reasons, each reflecting a different philosophy of celebration.
- Some hate being the center of attention and prefer just close family and friends.
- Some dislike big, staged celebrations with hundreds of guests, preferring authentic moments with those they care about.
- Some fear the stress of coordinating large events—synchronizing vendors, caterers, DJs, and so on.
- Some opted for a micro wedding during the COVID-19 pandemic to comply with capacity limits—on December 11, 2020, Governor Tim Walz capped receptions in Minnesota at 25 people.
- Others are drawn by the cost savings—micro weddings can be significantly cheaper when you skip pricey venues, caterers, or a restaurant.
- Second wedding (people who already got the big fancy wedding years ago) and who realize that a wedding can be simple without a ton of glitter.
Advantages of a micro wedding
Depending on your priorities, micro weddings offer several benefits:
- You can focus on the people who matter and create amazing memories without entertaining coworkers you barely know.
- It eliminates much of the stress that comes with large celebrations.
- It’s easier to reduce health risks and comply with restrictions (in light of COVID).
- It’s cheaper (often the biggest advantage for many couples). DIY is king.
- Limiting invitations to close family and friends avoids the awkwardness of inviting some people while excluding others.
- You have more flexibility. You can, for instance, adjust the timeline at the last minute if you see that the rain will hit you.
Cons of having a backyard micro wedding
When hosting a micro wedding in your backyard, you have to keep in mind that you still have to host a party. It’s way easier than a wedding with 150 guests, but still, it can be stressful for some people.
So here are the challenges you will face:
- Stress, especially if you do a DIY wedding.
- You have to do a short selection, which means excluding people, which potentially makes some friends sad.
- You have to deal with Mother Nature and have, and in the worst scenario, welcome everybody into your home if you don’t have tent
- You have to entertain your guests, and your guests will always ask about you (unlike a big wedding, where you can more easily disappear).
- You have to deal with food: making sure the food is ready, delivered, and warm for your guests.
- You have to deal with the legal papers yourself (marriage license) for the ceremony, two witnesses, and an official officiant.
Some couples would consider that pretty easy. Finally, it’s just a big party.
Some couples would hire a wedding planner.
Of course, as often, the budget is the limiting factor.
What to consider when planning a micro wedding
There’s a big difference between a chic micro wedding (like this one at the St Paul University Club) and a budget backyard gathering with a lot of DIY. Here are the key factors to weigh.
Location and season
In summer or fall, an outdoor or backyard ceremony feels like a big picnic. But in case of inclement weather (rain or snow), hosting in your home can be challenging. Indeed, you’ll need to move furniture and set up folding tables. A 200-square-foot living room is a lot tighter than a 2,000-square-foot one.
Keep your guest list minimal.
One of the hardest parts is resisting the urge to invite everyone. Excluding some friends while inviting others can be tough if you’re naturally social.
The easiest approach is to be firm and invite only the cream of the crop.
What wedding dress
Same as a traditional wedding: you don’t have to sacrifice glamour. Unless you want a casual vibe, choose the same beautiful dress you’d wear at a larger event to ensure stunning photos.
Wedding Party or not
Some micro weddings do include a wedding party. But most of the time, they do not.
From an organizational point of view, it’s probably easier not to have a wedding party.
That being said, a wedding party is a good way to include your teenage kids ( if you have any) in the wedding.
Of course, if you have a wedding party, you would mostly do a photo session with them.
Kids (if any): should you include them?
That’s a big question that each couple should consider individually. The answer will vary depending on the age of the kids, the number of children, and your relationship. Couples with kids from previous relationships usually include them in the wedding party, or during the ceremony if they are young. One parent usually makes a “promise” to the kids to raise them as their own. And everybody cries.
If you have kids, I recommend that you spend 10 minutes with them alone (and the photographer). So you can get some good shot that shows your complicity.
Pet (if any)
Cat: If you have a cat and want it in your wedding day photos, a backyard wedding is probably the only realistic scenario to include it.
Of course, if it’s shy, it might still hide under the bed, but with chance and perseverance, I might be able to catch a good image.
Dogs: If you have a dog, you can easily include it in your wedding day.
Again, depending on his temper, you might have him running around during the day or alone in a separate room.
Should you hire a makeup artist and hairstylist?
If you’re determined to save every dollar, you might skip all but the essentials, but some vendors—like a makeup artist and hairstylist—are worth the investment.
Ask yourself: Will doing your own hair and makeup, or relying on a friend, achieve the look you want? If not, does that matter?
It’s all about the results. As a photographer, I’ve seen too many brides rush to fix their makeup or hair once the pro has left, and sometimes DIY results can look awkward, to say the least.
So my recommendation is, unless you have a specific reason to go DIY and don’t mind the risk, don’t skip hiring a makeup artist and hairstylist.
Should you hire a photographer for a micro wedding? Is it worth it?
Ask yourself: Does photography matter to you? Do you want amazing memories of this day, or would you rather save money?
Hiring an experienced photographer is an investment—they’ll guide you to great results. On micro weddings, I’ve helped couples with backgrounds, sun positioning, and timing to capture the best shots. At small events, photographers often double as planners, guiding couples through key decisions.
Should you have an engagement session prior do your micro wedding?
Photographers usually recommend an engagement session before the big day. It helps you relax on camera, know what to expect, and get comfortable with your photographer. That’s especially useful if you want to maximize guest time, like this couple who did a winter engagement session.
If your micro wedding day schedule allows plenty of time with your photographer, you might skip the engagement shoot.
Install a tent, just in case of bad weather, if you don’t have a nice living room.
Tent renting, installation, for 40/50 people can quickly become expensive ($2000-$3000) and complicated (law, restriction, etc).
If you are planning a micro wedding, you want something simple. You could potentially install some 10×10 cheap tents for events (they cost less than $150). But it’s not photogenic and adds a layer of complexity.
If there is a light sprinkling of rain, opt for transparent umbrellas.
If it’s raining all day, you should be ready to host your event inside: your home or somewhere else. Yes, that’s the downside of a backyard wedding.
The need for a DJ, or not?
Couples often skip a professional DJ to save money. Instead, have a family member (like your cousin) manage the speakers and cue up a ready-made playlist.
Officiant or Friends
Wedding officiants are not that expensive (a couple of hundred dollars). It’s important to have a good officiant to make the ceremony fun and full of emotions.
If you have a family member or friend who is at ease speaking in public, then it’s time to hire him/her. Just make sure the ceremony is neither too short (less than 20 minutes) nor too long (longer than 30 minutes).
A good friends who know both of you and who is comfortable speaking in public could also perform your ceremony. It’s sometimes even more emotional.
But he/she will need to follow a short formation for that.
Should you get a Florist?
I love flowers, and a good florist can make any location look amazing. If you have a budget, I would recommend it. A florist can completely change the overall look of a backyard setup.
What’s more, your guests could even leave your event with some flowers!
But, florists are expensive. So, if you are handy or have some friends who love flowers, it’s time to develop their creative talents. Go to Trader Joe’s (or other place where you can buy flowers you like), buy a bunch of simple greenery and flowers, and make your own decorations.
Should you have a wedding cake?
Except if you, or your friends, have a hobby for baking (and that’s pretty common), you might need to buy your three-tier wedding cake at the bakery if you want to cut it on your wedding day.
Note that today, simple one-tier wedding cakes, or just wedding pies, wedding cupcakes, are trendy.
Do you need musicians?
Same as for a “real wedding in a venue”, a backyard wedding would enjoy some good music. It would be a harpist, a violinist, a flutist, or a guitarist.
Do you need to rent tables, chairs, and tablecloths?
Those are expenses you can avoid if you can borrow chairs and tables from friends. Don’t ask them to bring them on the wedding day; instead, pick them up beforehand. If you live in a nice neighborhood, check with your neighbors, as they usually have extras to share.
If you don’t have any of that, then you will have to rent chairs and tables. It’s not expensive per unit (chair $1,5 to $3 ; table $10 to $20), plus the delivery.
Should you send invitations?
It’s up to you. Invitations can add a little something more.
Today, thanks to AI, in a few minutes, it’s easy to create a logo, small text, and send everything for printing online (or your local copy printer). You can get the invitations.
Invitation can also be sent by email. What’s important is to send the invitation at least 2 months in advance to maximize the chance that everybody is available!
Parking
If you live in a Big city, and depending on the area, parking 20 cars can be tricky.
You don’t want your guests to be fined or have their cars towed away.
Tell them where to park.
Option of adding Portable Restrooms
For a mini wedding, you will probably not need to rent portable restrooms, except if you want to avoid people from entering your home.
But if you want to, expect to pay around $185 to $200 per unit.
Backyard wedding and food: Should you get a caterer?
For food, you would need to choose between:
- A very dedicated family member who prepares meals in advance over the week,
- A traditional caterer.
- A large pizza order (approximately $16–$20 per pizza),
- A food truck (or several food trucks if you want variety).
Keep food simple with a caterer.
I love cooking, but preparing food for a crowd takes a LOT of time. You could recruit family helpers, but they’ll likely want to enjoy the celebration.
Alternatively, wrap up the day at a nearby restaurant (a popular choice for courthouse weddings) or order some pizza or book a food truck.
Do you want to prepare your own food? Then keep it simple.
If you really want to Do It Yourself (and that could save money), you want to designate a family member.
For a backyard wedding, my recommendation is to keep the menu simple and prep as much as possible ahead of time.
An easy menu could be beef + mashed potatoes + salad.
Pizza
An easy, delicious, and convenient solution is to order a bunch of pizza.
After you can just throw everything in the garbage.
Food Trucks for a Backyard Wedding
A food truck is another alternative that gives you more choices in terms of flavor!
The cost of a food truck depends on the food and the company.
You can often negotiate a package so they do not charge per person ($10–$15).
For example, you could expect to pay $1,000 to $2,000 for 3 to 4 hours of unlimited food.
Food Truck & Regulations
If you hire a food truck, make sure it complies with the law.
The food truck must have:
- A Mobile Food Unit license from the City Clerk’s Office
- Approval from Olmsted County Public Health Services (OCPHS)
- Valid insurance
- Compliance with local zoning ordinances
Alcohol
For alcohol, it’s relatively easy to set up a self-service bar or buy the alcohol yourself.
If you are a big fan of fancy cocktails with names that you can’t even remember, then, yes, having a bar truck might be an option. But for 30-40 guests, it’s not a necessity.
Micro Wedding and Bad Weather
Weather is the biggest wildcard in backyard weddings, especially in Minnesota (check here for the best month to plan an outdoor wedding). But with proper planning, you can handle whatever Mother Nature throws at you. The key is having a solid plan that doesn’t compromise your photos, or knowing how to use the flexibility offered by a small event.
The Joker Card: the Option to Adjust the Timeline during the Day
One beauty of a small family and friends gathering is the flexibility. If you see that there is a short rain scheduled for the ceremony, you can easily adjust your timeline. Get inside, drink, mingle, and go back after the rain.
Light Rain Strategy
Light drizzle doesn’t have to ruin your outdoor ceremony. Invest in 10-12 clear umbrellas on Amazon for around $100 total. These transparent umbrellas are both functional and incredibly photogenic.
If it’s not raining, you can still return them.
If you have used them and don’t need all of them, you could also consider offering them to your guests.
Heavy Rain or Storm
When the weather turns serious, you need a complete indoor backup plan ready to execute. Don’t wait until the morning of your wedding to figure this out. Walk through your home and identify the best room for your ceremony: it might be the living room, or a basement, if you have a large one.
Consider factors like natural light (big door windows), space for guests.
Plan your heavy furniture removal in advance. Know exactly which pieces need to move and where they’ll go. This isn’t something you want to figure out while guests are arriving.
For indoor photos, find a spot with good natural light and a nice backdrop. Large windows, entrance doors, French doors, or even a well-lit hallway can become beautiful portrait locations when you know how to use them.
Extreme Heat Management
Heat waves can be just as challenging as rain for both comfort and photos. When guests are uncomfortable, it shows in their expressions and body language. Rent or borrow outdoor fans to create air circulation in your ceremony and reception areas. The gentle breeze will keep everyone more comfortable and prevent makeup from melting.
Set up a table with a water bottle, lemonade, or iced tea. Dehydrated guests become cranky guests, and that energy affects the entire celebration.
The beauty with a micro wedding is that you can also adjust. You can consider moving your ceremony time earlier in the day or later in the evening to avoid peak heat hours. The lighting will actually be better for photos during these times anyway.
Ensure you have a shaded area for elderly guests who may be more sensitive to heat. A few pop-up tents or umbrellas can make the difference between a comfortable celebration and guests leaving early.
You can’t host the event and be the Star at the Same Time
Even a small event can be overwhelming if you try to do everything by yourself. And, on your wedding day, you have one job: get married and enjoy your guests. You can’t be the stars of the show and the stage manager at the same time.
You need a Helper (family member or best friend)
Designate a Point Person who is NOT in the wedding party. When the pizza arrives or a guest has a question, they go to your Point Person, not to you. This protects you and your photo time together. If you’re constantly interrupted during portrait sessions, you lose precious light and momentum.
Set up everything you can in advance
Try to have everything set up as early as possible.
The Night Before:
- Set up all decorations and signage (if the weather permits).
- Arrange tables and chairs
- Test all electronics (speaker system, string lights, and this microphone that never works!)
Morning Of:
- Your Help manages all vendor deliveries
- Set up gift table and guest book area
- Prepare ceremonial space last to keep it pristine
Inform the Neighbors and Noise
Quick friendly chat with neighbors beforehand prevents them from mowing during your vows. Check local noise ordinances to avoid party interruptions. This ensures perfect ceremony audio and atmosphere.
Plan your cleanup in advance. Having a team ready after the party lets you stay in the moment until the very end for those final joyful photos.
Timeline example for Micro Wedding
If it’s true that a micro wedding requires less time than a big wedding with 200-300guests, there are some parts that can’t be squeezed.A realistic timeline is crucial for capturing all the moments that matter. Here’s a sample for a 4 PM backyard ceremony:
- 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Getting ready with hair and makeup. Allow 2-3 hours even for micro weddings. Your photographer arrives during the final 30 minutes to capture dress details, rings, and preparation moments.
- 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Setup and first look (optional). First look works beautifully in your backyard and helps complete couple portraits before guests arrive.
- 3:00 PM – 3:45 PM: Guest arrival and mingling. Keep this shorter than traditional weddings since 30-40 people mingle quickly.
- 4:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Ceremony. 30 minutes maximum to maintain that intimate feeling.
- 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM: Cocktail hour and group photos. Family photos go much faster with fewer people. Use this time for candid celebration shots.
- 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM: Dinner and toasts. Keep speeches to 2-3 people maximum, whether serving pizza or catered food.
- 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM: Dancing and celebration. Create space for dancing even without a DJ. Some of the best shots come from these spontaneous moments.
Budget: How much does a mini backyard wedding cost?
The price of a micro wedding can change a lot from one couple to another.
Some factors would stay the same (dress, suit, officiant, musician). Some other expenses would vary depending on the number of guests (food, chairs).
Here, just to give you a rough idea, is a draft budget for a simple micro wedding, with 50 guests, alcohol, no tent, an officiant, a musician, pizza, a few chairs and tables to rent, no DJ, and, of course, a photographer, which is often the bigger expense :D.
Estimate around $4000/$5000 on the lower end, and $8000.
| Attire & Appearance | $1,000 – $2,000 | For wedding outfits, shoes, and professional hair/makeup. (Can be much lower if fully DIY). |
| Ceremony & Legal | $500 – $900 | Officiant fee ($300-$700) and marriage license ($40-$115). |
| Ceremony Music | $150 – $400 | One musician for 30 minutes. |
| Food (Pizza) | $350 – $500 | Enough pizza for 50 guests. |
| Drinks | $350 – $700 | Beer, wine, whiskey, and non-alcoholic beverages. Includes disposable serving ware. |
| Rentals | $200 – $400 | 25 chairs, 4 large tables, plus delivery/pickup. Add $40-$80 for simple disposable tablecloths if desired. |
| Photography | $1,000 – $2,500 | Capturing your special day (2-4 hours coverage). |
| Miscellaneous & Cake | $200 – $500 | Small wedding cake/dessert, basic decor (like simple string lights), and a small buffer for extras. |
| Contingency (10%) | $300 – $700 | Always set aside extra for unexpected costs! |
| TOTAL ESTIMATE | $4,050 – $8,100 | A comfortable range for a DIY backyard micro wedding. |
Make your own budget with our Micro Wedding Budget Calculator.
Micro Backyard Wedding Budget Calculator (MN)
Estimate costs for your Minnesota backyard wedding (up to 50 guests). Adjust values using the sliders.
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Estimated Total Wedding Cost: $0.00
Photography Focus for Micro Weddings
Why Micro Wedding Photography is Different
Micro wedding photography isn’t just regular wedding photography with fewer people. Every single person in your photos actually matters to you. Your photographer becomes more involved in the day’s flow, often helping with real-time decisions about timing and positioning.
Choosing the Right Photographer for Your Intimate Celebration
Look for photographers experienced with intimate celebrations and backyard settings. Ask to see complete micro wedding galleries, not just highlight reels. Personality matters more since you’ll spend concentrated time together and guests will interact with them directly. Choose someone whose energy matches your celebration style.
Pre-Wedding Photo Planning
Send detailed photos of your backyard at different times of day, showing available backgrounds and lighting conditions. Include photos of your backup indoor location and getting-ready space. Video works great as well!
Essential Shot List for Micro Weddings
Some couples would like photos of getting ready details in your bedroom. Others just want the ceremony coverage with your house as a backdrop, and family combinations, since everyone matters.
You can also include reception details like your dining setup, intimate dinner conversations, and spontaneous moments throughout your celebration. Plan for more personal shots than in a typical wedding.
Where to Go for Photos
- Getting Ready: Big room with lots of natural light. If friends or neighbors are involved, the groom can get ready in another house for logistics.
- First Look: In your backyard next to the ceremony arch, or in front of your house if you have a nice door.
- Couple Portraits: Keep it short with the park next door, or drive to a photogenic county or regional park with tall grass, big trees, rivers, or lakes for stunning shots.
- Family Photos: Your backyard if it’s nice enough.
- Wedding Party (if any): The nearby park, or even your street if lined with majestic old trees.
Working with Natural Light and Timing
Position your ceremony so the sun is behind your officiant to avoid harsh shadows and raccoon eyes. Avoid having one of you in the sun and the other one in the shade. Scout the sun position in the backyard (and the shadows) at the wishing ceremony time. Adjust the location or the timing if needed to make sure you have nice light.
Plan sunset photos around 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM (depending on season) for golden hour couple portraits. Use your house as a natural light reflector for soft, even illumination. Check the sunset calculator here.
Keep Your Home and Backyard Uncluttered
Your backyard is your venue, your backdrop. The first step is to keep it as clean as possible.
Clean up three days before: Remove garden hoses, toys, and clutter from photo areas. Hide cars from ceremony backgrounds and secure pet items.
Remove all ugly plastic elements: lawn mowers, Home Depot baskets, tarps covering piles, and broken items. These distracting elements will show up in your background shot.
Dare a grand Exit with sparklers
Grand exit is a fun way to officially end the reception, plus it creates amazing photos. And it’s really easy to organize.
Simple Backyard Decorations That Enhance Photos
If you want to get even better photos, here are some simple backyard improvements that make a difference in photography.
String lights everywhere create magical ambiance and beautiful bokeh in photos. Fresh flowers in mason jars or simple vases add color and life. Real wood furniture photographs better than plastic alternatives.
Fabric and textiles: Tables with white tablecloths, white or cream fabric draped over fence lines, shepherd’s hooks, or tree branches creates soft, romantic backgrounds. Vintage rugs or blankets define ceremony and reception spaces while adding texture to photos.
Natural elements: Wooden signs with calligraphy look timeless in photos. Potted plants or herbs (lavender, rosemary) smell great and photograph beautifully. Tree branches in tall vases create height and visual interest without blocking faces.
Ceremony backdrop: Simple wooden arch or pergola gives your ceremony a focal point. Hanging florals or greenery garlands frame the couple without overwhelming the space. Vintage doors or window frames as ceremony backdrops add character.
Ceremony exit: that can be a very photogenic moment. The groom can simply dip the bride, or you can use soap bubbles, or even better, confetti! Yes, it’s your backyard 😀
Lighting elements: Lanterns on shepherd’s hooks line pathways and define spaces. Candles in glass hurricane holders (battery-operated for safety) create warm, romantic lighting that photographs beautifully at dusk. They work especially well under a white tent where the roof will bounce back the light.
Table settings: If you’re dining outside, don’t oversimplify the table decoration. Invest in nice white tablecloths with real plates and silverware instead of cheap cardboard plates. This elevates your celebration significantly and makes a dramatic difference in photos. Mismatched vintage china adds charm and personality. Simple centerpieces with single-stem flowers keep the focus on guests’ faces during dinner photos.
This is your opportunity to refresh your garden: Install new mulch, create clean edges, repair fences, or even do minor landscaping projects. Pressure-washing patios and walkways creates clean backgrounds. Trimming overgrown bushes opens up sight lines for better photo compositions.
Micro Wedding FAQ
The Basics: Understanding Micro Weddings
What exactly is a micro wedding?
A micro wedding is an intimate celebration with a small guest list, typically ranging from just two witnesses up to about 30 to 40 guests. Some consider 50 guests to still be a micro wedding, but the core idea is a focus on authentic, meaningful moments with only your closest circle of family and friends.
What’s the difference between a micro wedding and an elopement?
While an elopement is typically just the couple (and perhaps witnesses), a micro wedding includes a small group of close family and friends. It maintains traditional wedding elements like a ceremony, reception, and celebration, just on a much smaller and more personal scale.
Who should consider a micro wedding?
Micro weddings are a perfect fit for couples who:
- Dislike being the center of attention in large crowds.
- Prefer authentic moments over large, staged celebrations.
- Want to avoid the stress of coordinating a massive event.
- Are budget-conscious and want to achieve significant cost savings.
- Are having a second wedding and prefer simplicity.
- Value flexibility and the ability to adjust plans easily.
Budget & Costs
How much does a backyard micro wedding cost?
For a 50-guest backyard micro wedding, a realistic budget is between $4,000 and $8,100. This estimate includes key expenses like attire, legal fees, a photographer, simple food options like pizza, drinks, and basic rentals.
What are the biggest cost savings compared to a traditional wedding?
The most significant saving comes from not needing an expensive venue, which can save you anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000+. You also save substantially on catering, alcohol, floral arrangements, and invitations due to the smaller guest count.
Where should I splurge versus where can I save?
- Worth the Investment: A professional photographer (memories last a lifetime), a hair and makeup artist (to ensure you look and feel your best), and a quality officiant (to make the ceremony meaningful).
- Safe to Save On: A DJ (a playlist managed by a friend works great), elaborate decorations (your backyard is the scenery), and transportation (you’re already home!).
Planning & Logistics
Do I need a permit or special insurance for a backyard wedding?
- Permits: Usually not required for a small party on your own property, but always check local ordinances for noise limits, temporary structures (like large tents), and food truck licensing.
- Insurance: Review your homeowner’s policy. While it may cover small gatherings, consider short-term event insurance if you are hiring multiple vendors or renting significant equipment.
How do I handle parking for 20-40 guests?
Don’t overlook parking. Inform guests of the plan in your invitation. Explore options like street parking (check for restrictions), asking neighbors if you can use their driveways, or encouraging carpooling and ride-sharing.
Is it necessary to inform my neighbors?
Absolutely. A friendly chat with your neighbors beforehand is crucial. It prevents interruptions (like a lawnmower during your vows), manages expectations about noise, and addresses potential parking concerns. It’s a simple step that ensures goodwill.
What legal requirements do I need to handle myself?
You are responsible for ensuring your marriage is legal. This includes:
- Obtaining a marriage license (in Minnesota, this is about $40-$115).
- Securing two witnesses for the ceremony.
- Hiring a licensed officiant or having a friend get legally ordained to perform the ceremony.
Weather & Backup Plans
What is the best plan for bad weather?
Having a solid, pre-planned strategy is essential.
- Light Rain: Invest in 10-12 clear, photogenic umbrellas. This allows you to proceed with an outdoor ceremony while creating beautiful, romantic photos.
- Heavy Rain/Storm: Have a complete indoor backup plan. Before the wedding, identify the best room in your house, plan what furniture needs to be moved, and scout indoor spots with good natural light for photos.
- Extreme Heat: Rent or borrow outdoor fans, set up a hydration station with cold drinks, and ensure there is a shaded area for guests. Consider shifting your ceremony to a cooler time of day, like the morning or early evening.
Do I need to rent a tent?
A tent is a good but expensive solution ($2,000-$3,000). It’s only necessary if you have no viable indoor backup plan. For a budget-friendly option, a few cheap 10×10 pop-up tents can provide some shelter, but a solid indoor plan is the most reliable choice.
Food, Vendors & Guests
What are the best food options for a casual backyard wedding?
Simplicity is key. Great options include:
- Food Truck: Fun, varied, and handles all cooking and cleanup ($1,000-$2,000 for 3-4 hours).
- Pizza or BBQ: Affordable, crowd-pleasing, and easy to manage.
- Professional Caterer: The most stress-free but also the most expensive option.
- DIY: Only attempt this if you designate a family member (not yourself!) to manage it and keep the menu extremely simple.
Is a professional photographer really worth it for such a small event?
Strongly recommended. At a micro wedding, every guest is important, making the photos more intimate and meaningful. An experienced photographer does more than just take pictures; they help guide the day’s flow, find the best light, and often act as an informal coordinator.
How do I decide who to invite without causing hurt feelings?
Be diplomatic but firm. The best approach is to establish a clear rule, such as inviting only immediate family and a handful of lifelong friends (your “cream of the crop”). People are generally more understanding of tight guest lists for intimate weddings.
How do I handle family pressure to invite more people?
Explain your vision for an intimate and personal celebration and stick to your decision. If pressure continues, you can suggest hosting a larger, more casual party at a later date, but don’t compromise the intimate nature of your wedding day.
What if I regret not having a big wedding later?
Remind yourself of the reasons you chose a micro wedding: less stress, more meaningful connections, and significant savings. The focus is on the quality of the experience, not the quantity of guests. You can always host a large anniversary party in the future if you desire.
Day-Of Coordination & Final Tips
Do I need a wedding coordinator?
You don’t need a professional, but you absolutely need a designated helper or “Point Person” who is not in the wedding party. This person’s job is to manage vendor deliveries, answer guest questions, and troubleshoot issues so that you can relax and be the star of your day.
How can I prepare my backyard to look its best for photos?
A few days before, do a thorough cleanup: hide garden hoses, toys, and clutter; move cars from view; and trim overgrown plants. For high-impact decor, use string lights for ambiance, white tablecloths to elevate tables, and a simple ceremony arch or backdrop to create a beautiful focal point.
What’s the best advice for a successful micro wedding?
The most important thing is to focus on what truly matters: celebrating your love with the people who mean the most to you. Don’t get caught up in perfection. The beauty of a micro wedding lies in its genuine connections and authentic moments. When you prioritize that, everything else will fall into place.
Conclusion
Planning a backyard micro wedding is about creating an authentic celebration that reflects who you are as a couple. The beauty lies not in elaborate details, but in the genuine connections and intimate moments shared with your closest loved ones.
From a photographer’s perspective, these celebrations consistently produce the most emotionally powerful and meaningful images. When you remove the stress of managing hundreds of guests and focus on what truly matters, your joy becomes infectious and genuine.
The key to success is thoughtful planning without overthinking. Designate your Helper, create realistic timelines, prepare for weather, and most importantly, trust in the process.
Remember: The most beautiful weddings aren’t about perfection. They’re about two people celebrating their love surrounded by those who matter most. When you keep that focus, everything else falls into place, and the photographs will reflect that genuine happiness for years to come.
