This past September we had the pleasure of photographing Emily & John’s big backyard wedding in Stoughton, MA.  Intimate weddings have become more and more popular these days and it has been an absolute pleasure being able to photograph and be a part of these wonderful days!

Here are some tips and tricks for a flawless backyard wedding day that makes it feel unique and transforms into a space that no longer feels only like home and more like a venue made just for you!

Emily made all her own bouquets and flower arrangements.  This is something that I’ve seen a lot lately with recent wedding trends.  Keeping flowers simple and within your color palette makes a big splash and adds a uniqueness.  If possible, you may even have flowers to pick from your own backyard! How cool would that be?

Having alone time isn’t always easy when throwing a backyard wedding.  We love to have the couple do a first look and wedding party photos away from the home.  Make sure to find a space that feels like you!  Whatever vibe you’re going for- whether it be by the water or in a field.  If you’re unsure of where to start, ask your photographer if they have any suggestions for the area. We loved shooting this wedding and you wouldn’t even know that the first look was at a local school right down the road! 

A simple way to have a backyard wedding go more smoothly is to also incorporate things like tent rental and even bathrooms.  This might not sound so glamorous but it helps keep the party going!  In case of unexpected rain or bad weather, having a tent rental helps keep stress away.

Other trends that I’ve seen for backyard weddings is to incorporate a floral arch as a clear marker for where the ceremony is versus the reception.  This is also great for small spaces to have another backdrop for photos with your guests!

Adding lights and hanging fixtures to your tent also makes it feel like a whole new world. 

Other cool trends I’m seeing are potlucks and non plated dinners as well as photobooths.  DIY photobooths are an easy way to get unique photos with your guests and if you incorporate disposable cameras or polaroids, it’s another cute memento that you can physically keep from your wedding day!  Some of the props from the photobooth even made their way to the dance floor!

Let me know in the comments what other backyard wedding trends you’re hoping to see this year!