In this article12 sections · Jump to an idea
3 min read
A backyard wedding is one of the most personal and beautiful wedding settings available. The familiar space becomes something extraordinary with the right decorations, and the garden’s existing features — trees, hedges, and paths — do much of the decorating work for free.
The ideas below cover every element of backyard wedding decor, from the ceremony to the reception.
1. String Lights Overhead
String lights hung overhead — between trees, along a fence, or from a temporary structure — are the single most transformative backyard wedding decoration. They create a magical atmosphere after dark and look beautiful in photographs.
Use warm-white lights around 2700K for the most romantic effect.
2. Define the Ceremony Space
Create a clear ceremony space with a defined aisle and a focal point — an arch, a backdrop, or a natural feature of the garden.
Use potted plants, lanterns, or ribbon to define the aisle. Position the ceremony to take advantage of the best view in the garden.
3. The Ceremony Arch
A ceremony arch covered with flowers and greenery creates the focal point of the backyard wedding ceremony. Use a wooden arch, a metal arch, or a natural branch arch.
Position it against the most beautiful part of the garden — a hedge, a tree, or a garden wall.
4. The Reception Tables
Set the reception tables with centerpieces, runners, and candles that suit the garden setting. Use natural materials — wood, linen, and greenery — for the most cohesive outdoor look.
See the wedding reception table decor ideas post for a full guide.
5. A Marquee or Tent
A marquee or tent provides shelter and defines the reception space. Choose a clear-sided marquee to maintain the garden view, or a fabric tent for a more romantic atmosphere.
Rent rather than buy — marquees are expensive to purchase and difficult to store.
6. Potted Plants as Decorations
Large potted plants — olive trees, topiaries, or tall ferns — placed throughout the garden create a lush, garden-party atmosphere and can be kept after the wedding.
7. A Flower Wall or Backdrop
A flower wall or a fabric backdrop creates a beautiful photo opportunity and a focal point for the reception space.
8. Lanterns Along the Path
Lanterns placed along the garden path guide guests from the ceremony to the reception and add warmth after dark.
9. A Drinks Station
A styled drinks station — a bar cart, a wooden table, or a vintage sideboard — in the garden creates a focal point for the pre-reception drinks and adds a personal touch.
10. Personal Touches
Photos of the couple, a guest book, personalised signage, and favours that reflect the couple’s personality make a backyard wedding feel genuinely personal rather than like a hired venue.
Practical Considerations
- Power: ensure there is enough power for string lights, catering equipment, and music
- Toilets: hire portable toilets if the house cannot accommodate all guests
- Parking: arrange parking for all guests
- Neighbours: inform neighbours in advance and check local noise regulations
Final Thoughts
A backyard wedding is most beautiful when it works with the garden rather than trying to transform it into something it is not. Start with string lights and a ceremony arch, define the spaces clearly, and add personal touches that reflect the couple. The garden itself is the most beautiful decoration available.
Still wondering
Common questions
How do you decorate a backyard for a wedding?
Start by defining the ceremony and reception spaces. Add string lights overhead for the reception area. Create a ceremony arch or backdrop. Set the tables with centerpieces, runners, and candles. Add potted plants and lanterns to fill the space. Use the garden's existing features — trees, hedges, and paths — as natural decorations.
How much does it cost to decorate a backyard for a wedding?
Backyard wedding decoration costs vary widely depending on the size of the wedding and the level of decoration. A simple backyard wedding with string lights, DIY centerpieces, and rented tables and chairs can cost as little as £500–£1,000 for the decorations. A more elaborate setup with a marquee, professional florals, and extensive lighting can cost £5,000 or more.
What are the most important backyard wedding decorations?
The most important backyard wedding decorations are string lights (for the reception area), a ceremony arch or backdrop, table centerpieces, and a defined aisle. These four elements create the essential structure of a backyard wedding. Everything else — potted plants, lanterns, and personal touches — adds to this foundation.
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