Your backyard can be transformed into a beautiful location to hold the perfect wedding reception. But it’s important that you plan ahead and implement the following 5 tips in order to have the festivities proceed smoothly and without a glitch. In addition, you may include looking for backyard wedding officiant services in your wedding planning.

Manicure the Lawn

Now is the time to look over your yard with a fine-tooth comb. If there are areas that are uneven or rocky, fill in those sections to make sure all areas where guests will be walking, standing or seated are as even as possible. Mow the grass and replace worn out or dried areas with fresh sod. Use a chemical agent to remove weeds if necessary. A few days before the big event, rake over the lawn to remove leaves, debris and any other obstacle that makes the grass look unkempt. Take a good look at trees and bushes and do any necessary trimming and make sure all flower beds have been adequately watered.

Prepare for the Weather

Nothing can put a damper on an outdoor wedding reception faster than unexpected wind gusts or rain showers. No matter how good your weather forecasting skills may be, it’s best to rent a tent canopy or even a tented enclosure as a place where guests can escape the sunshine, the heat and the effects of wet weather if necessary. Try to plan your backyard wedding reception for a time of year when mild temperatures make being out of doors a pleasure rather than during the hottest days of summer.

Arrange Parking Strategies

Check with your local government to determine if you need to apply for a permit for hosting a backyard reception. Planning is also essential when it comes to directing traffic to and from your location, and finding where all of your guests will safely park their vehicles without inconveniencing your neighbors or attracting police attention. Consider hiring a professional valet service to make arriving and departing from the event very orderly for everyone involved.

Secure Proper Equipment

Will you need lighting if the reception lasts until after dark? Do you need a dance floor or an area to accommodate a band or a DJ? How about enough tables and chairs to accommodate everyone attending? Are you preparing food in your own kitchen or using the services of a caterer? Do you need the services of AAA Fence Pros to limit the areas where guests have access? Whether you need to rent a generator, build a temporary fence or set up portable restrooms or get restroom trailers for rent, plan ahead so there are no unpleasant surprises on the day of the big event.

Be A Good Neighbor

In order to avoid having neighbors be resentful of a large party happening in your backyard, you may want to invite them to attend the reception or at the very least, talk personally with each to explain what is happening and assure them that you will do your best to keep the noise and inconvenience to a minimum level.