Top Reasons to Have a Backyard Wedding
Backyard weddings are rising in popularity for many reasons. Backyard weddings are perfect for micro weddings with 20 or fewer guests because of the small space and your rental restrictions on bigger parties. Many people realize that costs of renting wedding venues might be out of reach but the main reason why people chose to have small and intimate backyard weddings is:
The cost:
Wedding venues especially in places like Jackson Hole, Wyoming are expensive. They may be perfect for larger groups or for couples who want to have the ceremony and reception in one place, but if you're bringing a small number of loved ones and friends with you, renting a property that allows you to have a small wedding reception might be the way to go.
Small group size:
Because many Airbnbs don't allow big gatherings and parties, having a smaller guest count may allow you to host them in a backyard (with owner permission)
Simplicity and practicality: If you don't have have a big party having something small and cozy can be a great way to combine your ceremony and reception plans. Many couples decide to rent tables and chairs and either have catering or just food to go to makes things easy and cost effective.
Flexibility in case of the weather: this was the case with my clients in Jackson who originally wanted to have their ceremony at Colter Bay, but because of the weather they had to change their plans and have a small backyard ceremony.
How to Plan Your Backyard Wedding
- First of all you have to make sure the property you're renting allows for such events. As of now airbnb has banned parties but you can always reach out to your host and ask if you can have a small ceremony and dinner reception.
- Keep your party to 25 people or under, that is a sweet number for micro weddings and small backyard weddings.
- If you're planning on just having the ceremony at your house or rental make sure to rent chair and other wedding decor such us arch or rugs. This will allow for more romantic and picture perfect experience.
- If you're planning on hosting small dinner arrange catering or make sure to order take out ahead of time.
Best Restaurant Recommendations in Jackson Hole
Here are some good restaurant recommendations in Jackson that can host up to 20 people. If you decide to eat out on a town after your wedding ceremony these are some great options:
- Roosevelt's roughly $45 per plate, american Cousine, best to make a reservation ahead of time.
- Calico, they have patio you can reserve, Wilson Id about 20-30 min drive, Italian with salads, pizza, pastas
- East Mural room at Jackson Lodge, in the park, amazing views
- Gather in Jackson Hole for Food and Drinks- They have private dining room seating up to 28
- Snake River Grill- american grill, great beer, oval room available up to16 people only with an option to book larger event
Things to Do in Jackson Hole After Your Wedding
- Head to Grand Teton National Park for some epic mountain views and photos. You can read more about everything you need to know about eloping there in my post. Go hiking, visit Jenny Lake , go horse back riding or just drive around and stop at the main lookout..
- Visit historic downtown Jackson and go to either Million Dollar Cowboy Bar or one of many great restaurants and gift stores.
- Visit one of many hot springs such Grantine Hot Springs or Astoria Hot Springs. There is so much to do in Jackson from relaxing spa visit to adrenaline driven white water rafting or horseback riding.
