How To Plan a Small-Yard, Low-Budget Backyard Wedding
May 13, 2025
Small backyard weddings are becoming popular because they're cozy, personal, and budget-friendly.
According to Wedding Report, the average Indiana wedding with 100 to 150 guests costs between $25,253 and $30,865.[1] Choosing a backyard wedding may help you spend far less.
The best part is that hosting your wedding at home doesn't mean it can't be beautiful. With careful planning and creativity, your backyard can become a special venue. Here’s how to plan a small-yard, low-budget backyard wedding that everyone will remember.
Can You Have a Wedding in Your Backyard?
Yes! Backyard weddings are a great way to celebrate while keeping costs low. They offer a personal, intimate setting that you can customize to fit your style.
Before finalizing plans, check local regulations for permits, noise restrictions, and parking rules. Also, make sure your yard has enough space to comfortably accommodate your guests. If you live in a neighborhood, be mindful of noise limits and plan for an appropriate end time.
With a little planning, a backyard can become the perfect wedding venue.
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What is a realistic budget for a small wedding?
The first step when planning for a small wedding is to create a clear budget. Decide how much money you want to spend. Break your budget down into categories like food, decorations, clothing, and entertainment. Then, be ready to track your spending so you can stay on budget.
Having a small backyard wedding can potentially help you keep costs around $10,000 or less.
Here’s a realistic budget example to help you plan:
Rentals (tables, chairs, tent): $800–$1,200
Food & Drinks: $3,000–$4,000
Decorations: $500–$1,000
Invitations: $50–$150
Cake & Desserts: $300–$500
Music & Entertainment: $300–$500
Party Favors: $150–$300
Clothing & Attire: $500–$1,000
Photography: $500–$1,500
Extra Costs: $200–$500
You can plan a beautiful, meaningful backyard wedding without spending too much.
Recommended: Free Wedding Budget Sheet: Your Ultimate Template to Wedding Planning
Inexpensive Outdoor Wedding Ideas for Your Backyard
Small backyard weddings can feel just as special as bigger, more expensive ones. Here are simple ways to save money without giving up quality or style.
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1. Stick To a Theme
A clear theme makes planning easier and keeps your wedding elegant on any budget. It helps guide your choices for decorations, attire, and food. Whether you choose a country, garden, Viking, or forest theme, keeping it cohesive creates a beautiful celebration without overspending.
2. Use Digital or Printable Invitations
Skip expensive physical invitations and opt for digital or printable options. Many free or low-cost templates match any wedding theme. If printing, using high-quality cardstock can make DIY invitations look elegant and professional.
3. Get Creative With Seating and Decor
Save money by borrowing seating and decorations from friends or family. Depending on your theme, alternatives like straw bales, ottomans, or tree stumps can work beautifully. Using what’s already available reduces costs while adding a personal touch.
4. Consider Thrifting
Thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces are great for finding lightly used wedding essentials. From attire to décor, many wedding items are only used once, making secondhand shopping a smart way to save on nearly new pieces.
5. DIY What You Can
If you’re crafty, making elements yourself can cut costs significantly. Supplies are often cheaper than finished products.
Consider DIYing:
Wedding attire (veil, corsages, simple alterations).
Food, desserts, and cake.
Altar, centerpieces, and decor.
Guest and wedding party favors.
Check social media and forums for affordable DIY wedding ideas that match your theme.
6. Serve a Signature Drink
Instead of a full bar, offer a signature drink that fits your theme. Make it in bulk to keep costs low, and ask a friend or family member to help serve. Limiting drink options still gives guests something special while you stay within budget.
More Tips for Having an Inexpensive Backyard Wedding
Small, low-budget backyard weddings can be easier to plan when you use these additional money-saving ideas.
Start Saving Early
If your wedding date is months away, start setting aside a little money each week. Even small amounts add up over time, helping cover costs without financial stress. The right savings product can make it easier to stay on track.
Recommended: Monthly Savings Calculator
Keep Your Guest List Small
Invite only close friends and family to keep costs down. Fewer guests mean lower expenses for food, seating, and party favors. Plus, a small wedding creates a more intimate and meaningful celebration.
Ask for Help
Instead of hiring vendors, see if loved ones can provide services as their wedding gift. Do you know a talented photographer, musician, or baker? Ask if they’d be willing to help. A friend with a good camera can capture beautiful moments, and a musician in the family can provide live music. Even small contributions from guests can make a big difference in reducing costs.
How To Plan a Wedding Under $1000
To plan a wedding under $1,000, keep it small and focus on essentials. Host it in a free location like a backyard or park, use digital invitations, and borrow decorations. Instead of catering, serve homemade food or have a potluck-style meal.
Skip a full bar and offer a simple drink menu. Wear a second-hand or borrowed dress, and ask a talented friend to take photos. Play music from a playlist instead of hiring a DJ. Prioritize meaningful, budget-friendly choices to create a special day without overspending.
Plan Your Dream Wedding With Centier by Your Side
Planning a small-yard, low-budget backyard wedding doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice style or fun. With these inexpensive ideas and smart budgeting tips, your event can be beautiful, memorable, and stress-free.
If you start planning early, you may be able to grow your budget for an unforgettable celebration. Centier is here to help make saving easy and stress-free.
To start saving for your dream wedding today, explore Centier’s helpful savings products.
Source:
[1] https://wedding.report/index.cfm/action/wedding_cost.estimate/budgetid/0DF5C4B6-2A55-41D2-997D2CD077105C49
