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When you picture a wedding that feels intimate, beautiful, and totally you, a backyard wedding venue might just be the perfect setting. Whether it’s your childhood home, a rented property, or a cozy outdoor venue made just for small celebrations, backyard weddings offer something that traditional venues sometimes miss—comfort, personality, and a whole lot of heart.
In this guide, we’re diving into everything you need to know about backyard wedding venues, including how to find one, what makes them special, and how to pull off a backyard wedding that’s equal parts simple and stunning.
A backyard wedding venue isn’t always literally someone’s backyard—though it can be! It’s a term that also includes:
What they all have in common? A relaxed, nature-connected setting that feels like home—even if it’s not your home.
There’s a reason backyard weddings have become so popular with couples planning smaller celebrations. Here are a few of the top perks:
There’s something special about getting married in a space that has emotional significance. Maybe it's your childhood home or your grandparents’ backyard where you spent summers growing up. Even if you’re renting the space, backyard-style venues often feel more authentic than traditional ballrooms.
Backyard wedding venues are ideal for micro weddings and elopements. With a smaller guest list, you don’t need a huge space—you just need the right space. These venues naturally encourage intimacy, connection, and relaxed vibes.
When you choose a backyard-style venue, you’re not stuck with in-house décor or pre-selected vendor packages. You can bring in your own florist, string up lights, use picnic tables, create a lounge space—whatever fits your vision.
Backyard weddings can be easier on the wallet—especially if the space is free (like your parents’ backyard). That said, don’t assume it’s always cheaper. We'll explain more on that in a bit.
Looking for a backyard venue but don’t have access to one yourself? Here’s how to find the right setting:
Start by asking family and friends. You’d be surprised how many people know someone with a beautiful property they’d be willing to share for the day.
Look for vacation rentals with large yards or outdoor entertaining spaces. Some even list themselves as wedding-friendly, but always ask the host for permission before planning anything.
We cover this in depth in our article about how to find Airbnb wedding venues.
Sites like microWED collective (shameless plug!) are curated specifically for small weddings. You’ll find backyard-style venues that are already set up for smaller celebrations.
Here are a few with backyard vibes:
Many small, family-owned properties rent their outdoor spaces for events without being full-time wedding venues. Look for listings on places like The Venue Report, Peerspace, or even local Facebook groups.
Backyard venues offer flexibility and charm, but there are a few logistical considerations to keep in mind:
Is there enough room for the number of guests you're inviting? Consider space for:
If the venue doesn’t have enough bathrooms for guests, you may need to rent upscale portable restrooms (yes, that’s a thing—and they’re nicer than you’d expect).
Always plan for weather. Tents, umbrellas, or an indoor space nearby can save the day if the forecast turns.
Some cities require permits for events on residential property. And many have noise restrictions after a certain hour. Check local regulations, even for private events.
Will you need generators for lighting, catering equipment, or a DJ? If so, plan that into your budget and setup.
Check out our full backyard wedding planning checklist here.
Backyard weddings are cozy by nature—but you can still make them feel elevated and special. Here are a few simple ways to do that:
How much does a backyard wedding venue cost? It depends. If you’re using a family property and keeping things casual, you might spend less than you would at a traditional venue. But if you're starting from scratch—renting tents, tables, restrooms, lighting, and more—it can add up.
You can see a sample budget for a wedding that used a backyard venue here.
Based on what I’ve seen, you can expect to spend between $5-15,000 on a wedding that uses a backyard wedding venue. That said, you can scale up or down depending on how elaborate you want to get.
If you're wondering what a backyard wedding can really look like, here are a few examples to inspire your planning.
Ashley and Stephen were lucky to have a relative with a pretty amazing backyard just outside Rocky Mountain National Park. Their ceremony took place against the stunning backdrop of the park, with just a handful of loved ones and the mountains as their witness. After saying “I do” surrounded by alpine trees and fresh mountain air, the celebration continued at a relative’s property with a private backyard for a cozy post-ceremony gathering. This wedding proves that you don’t need a traditional venue to have a meaningful and beautiful celebration—just a view, your people, and a space that feels like you.
➡️ Real wedding: Ashley & Stephen's Rocky Mountain Wedding
Tucked along the Oregon coast, Jazmine and Josh’s wedding took place on a private estate that felt like an elevated backyard dream. With an ocean view, lush landscaping, and a small group of their closest people, the vibe was relaxed, romantic, and perfectly personal. The outdoor ceremony space was intimate and effortlessly beautiful—no over-the-top décor needed. This is the kind of venue that gives “backyard wedding” energy in the best way: private, peaceful, and full of possibility.
➡️ Real wedding: Jazmine & Josh at Crook Point
D and C hosted their wedding at Gold Mountain Ranch, a private property in Colorado that blends wide-open mountain views with a backyard feel. With a sprawling lawn overlooking the San Juans, gorgeous lodge, and cozy fire pit, this venue was made for micro weddings that feel intimate but still epic. They kept things simple and true to them—focusing on connection, mountain air, and making memories with the people who mattered most. It’s a beautiful example of how a backyard-style venue can still bring the wow.
➡️ Real wedding: D & C’s Mountain Wedding
A backyard wedding venue is more than just a pretty location—it’s a chance to create a wedding that feels like home. Whether you’re celebrating in your own space or renting one with that backyard feel, the magic comes from the intimacy, flexibility, and personal touches.
So if you’re dreaming of a small wedding that breaks the rules in all the best ways, don’t overlook the beauty of a backyard venue. It just might be the perfect place to start your forever.
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