Design Inspiration: The Perfect Backyard Affair

Posted Jan 26, 2012 by Gloria Atherstone

Photography by: AV Photo
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Ask the Expert

I think every bride would agree: if your backyard looked this amazing, you just might be up for the old-fashioned backyard wedding. The incredibly talented team of So Eventful did an amazing job of making this incredible soiree a reality, but as a fellow planner, I must tell you all a secret – the backyard wedding is infinitely more complicated than many of your over-the-top galas!

Often I will have a family come to me and tell me that they are thinking about or have decided on a wonderful backyard wedding. They love the intimate idea of sharing their home, and the memories that may be associated with it, with their family and friends. But if you are considering this as an option, keep in mind: a planner and a great catering company are the key to success.

The logistics to a backyard event can be challenging. Your kitchen may be the world’s best gourmet kitchen, but it is still only suitable to feed 20 guests – not 200 all at the same time. Those incredibly wonderful remodeled bathrooms are perfect to show off on the tour, but again, if you are hosting 100 guests at the house, no one wants a line at the restroom. From generators, porta-potties, to valets and beyond, a great backyard wedding needs extraordinary planning.

I Do Venues wants to recognize the talented team of wedding professionals who helped to make this bride’s dream a reality: Photographer – AV Photo; Designer/Planner – Marisa M Manna of So Eventful; Floral – Belle’s Lodi Flower Shop; Cake – Kim Duke of Old Vine Bake Shop; Catering – Steve Copello of Angelina’s Catering; Beverages – The Pub & Lounge; Lighting and Rentals – Classic Party Rentals; Entertainment – Dave Badilla (cocktail music), Bob Clemmens (bag-piper), Mad House (dancing band); Invitations – Calligraphy by Hillary; Videographer – Andy Hirsh of Blue Moon Productions.