How to plan the perfect backyard zoom wedding!

Well, the wedding world sure got turned on it’s head over the last few months. But, as we start to peek our heads out our front door, go grocery shopping with masks on, and find a new normal, weddings are getting a facelift, too! I’ve been a part of a few of these over the last two or three weeks, and decided I should write it up because, well, I think it’s a damn good idea!!

So, how do you plan the perfect backyard zoom wedding? Well, let’s talk about it!!

find some private property you can have your wedding on!

First off, make sure you have some private property you can use for the ceremony. Right now, all of the permits for outdoor areas in Colorado are locked down, and you can’t rent out an “official” ceremony site. Now, does that mean people are following the rules? Of course not. I, however, choose to lead by example and won’t be going against said rules since my business kiiiinda depends on having a good relationship with local parks services. So, if you don’t have a backyard, see if there is a friend or family member that will let you use their yard or property. In some cases, if Airbnbs or VRBOs are allowing bookings, they can be good options as well!

make sure you have good cell/wifi reception

So, if you do want to have zoom guests (or google meet, facebook groups, whatever) be able to see and hear your ceremony, you’ll either need WiFi or a pretty good cell connection to get a good video. If you’re in your backyard, it’s no problem, but if you are using another location you’ll want to visit first and maybe do a test run. Keep in mind that different services have time or person restrictions. Zoom will cut you off after 40 minutes, for example!!

celebrate with events and traditions that are special to you

Even if your zoom wedding isn’t the grand elegant party, or raucous dance throwdown you had planned, know that there are still tons of ways you can make it special. Take a peek at the photos below for some ideas! Megan + James still included a champagne toast, cake cutting, and mini dance party for their tiny wedding (as we’ve been fondly calling it). Megan also found an amazing jumpsuit to wear so she still felt like she had a special outfit for the day. Another couple I photographed made the signature cocktail that they were going to have at their wedding (old fashioned, delicious). Also, TOTALLY set aside some time for portraits with your photographer (if you choose to have one there). This day is still important, special, and you are still celebrating how much you love the person you’re spending forever with. That deserves to be cherished and remembered!!!

example backyard wedding timeline

You also might still need things that a big wedding has! Like a timeline. It will help keep you organized, make sure your guests know when to hop onto zoom, and reduce your stress! Here’s an example:

I also heard of a couple who drove around after their ceremony to all of their best friends houses to wave at them from the car (and maybe grab a few photos with them). What a cool idea!! We’re having drive-by graduation celebrations, why not weddings.

Basically, love is love. The world is your oyster.

Well, that’s what I got for ya! Your love is amazing. Celebrate the crap out of it even though the world is weird right now. And, if a photographer fits into that for you, hit me up!! Take a peek through Megan + James’ wedding photos below. There is still a story to be documented, and that has value!!

Vendors:

Video Chat: Zoom

Snacks: Front Range Catering

Cake: Tullia Ropp

Location: Boulder Apartment Complex

I hope this post was helpful if you are trying to throw a small celebration that still respects the gathering restrictions in place for your area. If you have any questions or other tips, drop them in the comments below 🙂 If you’re having a backyard wedding and still want photos taken, hit me up with the button below!