How To Throw A Luxe Backyard Wedding

With summer upon us, outdoor weddings are in full force—and we're not complaining about it. From casual backyard fetes to elegant estate affairs, you can't beat fresh grass under your feet and sunshine kissing your face. But pulling off an outdoor wedding in style takes a bit of know-how. Estate Weddings and Events is lending their expertise to us today on how to put the posh in your al fresco soiree!

From Estate Weddings and Events… With spring here and summer just around the corner an indoor wedding just seems wrong. So how can you enjoy idealistic weather in style and luxury? There is nothing better than a luxe backyard wedding! A-List estates fit for the rich and famous offer extravagant yards where you have all the freedom to make your wedding dream come true. Plus, you'll be surprised how easy it is to pull off a backyard wedding you'll never forget.

Step One: Create Your Vision - There are so many possibilities with backyard weddings because there simply is more freedom and more space. While of course you still have to abide by some property rules, we've found there is much more leeway when creating your vision than with typical hotel venues. Plus, with manicured lawns, glistening creeks, and private gardens it's not hard to imagine all the possibilities for your wedding.

Make your vision come true with lawn games, chic culinary buffets, or even ferris wheels! Plus, if you're thinking of a tented reception, a backyard wedding works perfectly. Tents lend themselves very well to themes because they integrate outdoor decor and indoor details.

Step Two: Remember the Details - Part of pulling off the vision you want is remembering to include the details in your planning. Ask yourself what you want to see at your wedding. If you want your friends and family to break it down on the dance floor, why not provide some cute flip-flops for the gals? If you imagine your guests having intimate conversations under the night sky, providing cozy blankets will make sure they stay a while and are comfortable doing it!

Step Three: Make It Shine - One of the most important parts to planning a backyard weddings is picking the right lighting. I know what you're thinking… lighting? It may seem like a boring topic but streaming market lights, lanterns, or even floating faux-candles are anything but dull. No matter how big the venue, lighting has a way of pulling everything together and creating a much more intimate atmosphere.

If you want a whimsical and feminine look, opt for hanging white lanterns. Market lighting can be used to create many different types of looks.

When hung uniformly as a pseudo-roof, they create an image of glitz and glam, but can also transform to a more rustic and casual look when loosely streamed. Just take look at how these great lighting effects transformed these backyard weddings.

Step Four: Have a Little Fun - After all, a backyard wedding should be fun and exciting. Because there often is more room for activities, lawn games and unique vendors work perfectly with a backyard wedding. A game of Cornhole can become instantly chic and classic by monogramming the board and adding finishing touches to the bags. Another favorite is the Ringtoss, of course, because of how perfect the name goes with tying the knot! If you're feeling adventurous you can even set up a sophisticated game of Croquet or rent a giant Jenga Set. The possibilities are endless! Just remember to pick games that involve multiple players and don't get too messy.

Step Five: Pick the Right Estate - Picking the right estate can be a difficult task because you want the estate to really capture what you imagine for your wedding day. We've found that different estates speak to different types of brides and grooms because every estate has a personality all its own!

1. For the Worldly Romantic - If you're inspired by Spanish Mediterranean style and private patio enclaves, La Bella Vida estate is the perfect venue for you. You and your guests can dine in manicured gardens and resort-like patios under the night sky at this romantic and luxurious estate. We love this estate because of its patio enclaves, which offer great spaces for vendor stations or just intimate nooks for guests to chat comfortably.

2. For the Classic Couple - If you are love with New England charm and old fashioned luxury, Hewitt Hill Farm is calling your name. The farm sits on 100+ acres of pristine land in Woodstock, Vermont, which highlights the best of the “Green Mountain State.” Here, your wedding can take place atop smooth, expansive, green lawns accompanied by blackberry bushes, majestic trees, and even a private pond. We love this estate because it is perfect for large groups and beautiful tented weddings. Plus, it combines the rustic nature of Vermont with modern luxuries.

3. For Equestrian Elegance - With 16 acres of sweeping patios, a scenic lake, and expansive grounds, the Valentino Estate is nothing but elegance and class. A large columned foyer and even its own equestrian club make this estate characteristic of its exclusive Rancho Santa Fe neighborhood. We love this estate because of its mature willow trees by the private lake. There really couldn't be a more picturesque location for your ceremony!

4. For the Balanced Bride - Water elements such as a pond, pool, or small river are characteristic of the Sanctuary Estate in Rancho Santa Fe, California. The estate's expansive property, refined architecture, and modern style evoke a sense of tranquility and luxury. You'll feel like you've escaped to your own private spa. We love this estate because of all its refreshing water elements. The estate truly feels like a resort with its well kept water features and manicured lawns perfect for photo shoots and wandering guests.

A luxe backyard wedding offers so many possibilities to making your dream wedding a reality. Of course, picking the right estate is the most important step but finding your estate venue is like falling in love all over again—you just know it's The One!