24 Small Backyard Wedding Ideas On A Budget


It can be challenging to come up with a wedding idea, especially if the budget is tight.

But these days, it’s not hard to find creative solutions that are both inexpensive and beautiful! Here are some ideas for backyard weddings on a budget.

1. A Windowpane Seating Chart

A Windowpane Seating Chart

Credit: Grooms Sold Separately

If you're looking for a unique way to display your guests' names at your wedding, a windowpane seating chart is a perfect option!

This DIY project is simple to make and can be done with materials you likely already have around your home.

Sounds interesting? Check this step-by-step tutorial on How To DIY Windowpane Seating Chart here.

2. Set Up a Photo Booth Area

Set Up A Photo Booth Area

Do you have a small backyard wedding idea? Setting up a photo booth is always a great idea to offer your guests an opportunity to participate in your big day.

You can set up some simple DIY photo booths using curtains, scrapbook paper, and props (think fun masks or crazy glasses). This will make for excellent party favors too!

3. String Lights and Light Bulbs Set the Mood 

String Lights And Light Bulbs Set The Mood

Light is the basic element that makes a space feel welcoming or not. Lighting can set the tone of a room, highlight areas, and create a wow factor for your outdoor wedding.

4. Flower Chandelier

Flower Chandelier

If you're looking for a way to add some extra elegance to your backyard wedding, consider using a flower chandelier.

Flower chandeliers can be made out of any type of flower, and they add a beautiful touch to your lighting.

You can also suspend them above a table, and You can incorporate LED lights inside of them to create a stunning effect.

5. Wedding Welcome

Wedding Welcome

A simple backyard wedding idea like this welcomes guests with a warm greeting as they come in.

Simple and shabby, a dark wooden board with a hand-painted welcome is a cute way to greet guests as they come in to sit down.

Accent the sign with greenery, including some flowers that tie into the same color as the wedding flowers.

6. Mason Jar Flower Vases

Mason Jar Flower Vases

Credit:  Style Me Pretty

When you're planning your backyard wedding, there are many things to consider – the venue, the decorations, the catering, and of course, the music! But don't forget about the lighting.

Mason jar light fixtures can add a touch of enchantment to any outdoor wedding. If you're interested in making your own Mason Jar Flower Vases, make sure to check this guide!

7. Outdoor Wedding Games

Outdoor Wedding Games

When it comes to wedding games, there are endless possibilities! If you're looking for some fun ideas for your outdoor wedding, here are a few of our favorites:

1. Giant Jenga: This game is always a hit! Guests can take turns trying to remove blocks from the tower without making it topple.

2. Corn Hole: This classic game is perfect for a backyard wedding! Guests can toss bean bags at the target boards to score points.

3. Horseshoes: Another old-school favorite! Guests can try their luck at this game by pitching horseshoes at the metal stakes.

Want to see more backyard wedding games? Check this out.

8.  DIY Bottle Table 

DIY Bottle Table

Having a DIY Bottle Table at your wedding is the perfect way to add a bit of fun and personalization to your big day!

9. Wedding Wish Tree

Wedding Wish Tree

A wedding wish tree is a guest book alternative where guests sign their names and write messages on pieces of fabric tied to the branches. Guests can tie them with ribbons and bows and hang them from the branches, so they flow down like petals or leaves.

10. Set a Long Banquet-Style Table

Set A Long Banquet-Style Table

Credit:  LELIA SCARFIOTTI; FLORAL DESIGN BY FLUIDA DESIGN 

A long Banquet-Style Table will help the guests feel at home and welcome. Having a long table also creates a sense of openness, allowing for better conversation. This type of table would be perfect for a backyard wedding.

11. Garden-Seating-Display

Garden-Seating-Display

If you're planning a backyard wedding, consider using a Garden-Seating Display like this one to show your guests to their seats.

12. Vintage Picture Frame

Vintage Picture Frame

Credit:  Seattle Wedding Officiants

You can use picture frames in many different ways for wedding décor. A couple of vintage frames can add a lot of character to your backyard wedding.

You can use them to hang backdrops, as chair décor, or even to frame your seating chart. You can also use them to hang photos or menus.

These frames will be perfect if you have a rustic or vintage-themed wedding! You can leave them as they are, or you can sand and paint them to match your theme.

Do you love this style? This article will show you how to make your own Vintage Picture Frames.

13. Outdoor Wedding Lounge

Outdoor Wedding Lounge

Credit:  Veronika Ward Photography

If you’re looking for something a little different, why not consider using an Outdoor Wedding Lounge as your backyard wedding idea? This can provide a unique and stylish setting for your big day.

An outdoor wedding lounge is perfect for creating a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere for their guests. You can decorate it with pretty cushions, curtains, and rugs to make it feel really special.

14. Boho Wedding Chill-Out Area

Boho Wedding Chill-Out Area

Credit: Chloe Lee Photo. Styling: Anthology Vintage Hire

When it comes to backyard weddings, many couples are opting for a Boho chill-out area as a way to inject some personality into their big day. 

This area can be used for relaxation and socializing and can be styled in various ways to reflect the couple's taste.

By using furniture, florals, and small details to create an eclectic and relaxed vibe, you can create an inviting space that will make your guests feel right at home.

So if you're looking for a unique way to add personality to your backyard wedding, consider creating a Boho Chill-Out Area!

15. Plan For Rain

Plan For Rain

If you're planning a backyard wedding, it's important to have a rain plan in place.

This means having a tented area preplanned just in case the weather doesn't cooperate on your big day.

Having a backup plan will help keep you and your guests comfortable, safe, and dry in case of inclement weather.

16. Food Station

Food Station

A food station is a great way to have a variety of foods at your wedding. It can also save you money because you can buy food in bulk and have the caterer set it up for you.

If you're looking for food ideas to place on your food station, make sure to check out the collection of 31 Delicious Food Cookout ideas! These recipes are sure to be a hit with your guests. So why not take a look and get inspired?

17. DIY Wildflower Aisle

DIY Wildflower Aisle

A DIY wildflower aisle is a perfect way to add a touch of natural beauty to your wedding day. Not only is it affordable, but it also allows you to personalize your wedding with your favorite flowers.

18. Wedding Arch

Wedding Arch

The best backyard wedding idea for this area is an outdoor wedding with a gorgeous arch. You can use it as the focal point for your ceremony, and it will stay in the background of all photos.

19. DIY Pallet Escort Card Display

DIY Pallet Escort Card Display

Having a DIY Pallet Escort Card Display is a great backyard wedding idea. It is easy to make and can showcase your cute seating cards. It also adds a rustic touch to your wedding decor.

20. Floating Wedding Florals

Floating Wedding Florals

Credit: stylemepretty.com

Having Floating Wedding Florals as a backyard wedding idea is a great way to save money on your wedding.

Not only are they affordable, but they are also elegant and sophisticated. If you’re looking for a cheap and easy way to add some elegance to your wedding, Floating Wedding Florals are the perfect solution.

21. DIY S’mores Bar

DIY S’mores Bar

Credit: bellenza.com

Having a DIY S’mores Bar at your backyard wedding is the perfect way to get your guests excited about the upcoming festivities!

Not only is it fun for them to be able to make their S’mores, but it also adds a touch of rustic charm to your wedding.

Plus, who can resist that delicious chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker flavors?

22. Campfire Place

Campfire Place

Campfire Place is a great backyard wedding idea for couples who want to stay casual and relaxed. It's also a fun way to wind down after dinner has concluded. All you need is a s'mores station and cozy blankets, and you're good to go!

Looking to add a touch of romance to your big day? Check out these 25 amazing fire pit ideas! Whether you're looking for something simple or something more elaborate, these ideas are sure to help get you inspired. So get ready to cozy up by the fire with your loved one and celebrate in style!

23. Wedding Cakes 

Wedding Cakes

Wedding cakes are usually the centerpiece of the wedding day. When it comes to wedding cakes, you have many different options to choose from. You can go with a traditional cake, or you could go with something a little more unique.

24. Vintage Lanterns

Vintage Lanterns

Having vintage lanterns as a backyard wedding idea can be quite an exciting way to make your wedding day special.

The lanterns act as another pleasant detail for your guests with all the lovely antique touches.

You can hang them up in rows or even in one large section to create a romantic ambiance.

It is also possible to hang them over the dance floor if you plan to have them outdoors.

Olivia Jackson
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