Your Free And Printable Backyard Wedding Decor Checklist

Save to Find It Later!

A backyard wedding keeps things simple, personal, and beautiful. With the right decor, even a small space can feel just as magical as any big venue. The key is to work with what you have: whether it’s a big oak tree, a wooden fence, or a cozy patio, and add thoughtful details that bring the whole space together.

Unlike traditional wedding venues, a backyard comes with its own set of challenges. You don’t have professional lighting, a built-in seating plan, or a designated ceremony space. But that’s also the beauty of it. You get to create a wedding that feels entirely your own, without the limitations of a standard event hall.

That being said, decorating a backyard wedding takes planning. The last thing you want is to realize the day before that there’s not enough lighting or that the wind keeps knocking over your table settings. It’s all about balancing function and style; making sure guests are comfortable, the space flows naturally, and everything looks as effortless as it feels.

This checklist breaks it all down. From the ceremony setup to the reception table and small details that make a big difference, I’ll walk you through exactly what you need to transform your backyard into a wedding-ready space. Whether you’re keeping it minimal or adding a few statement pieces, these decor ideas will help you create an intimate and unforgettable celebration.

I’ve included a free printable backyard wedding decor checklist at the end of this post for convenience.

Step-by-Step Decor Planning

A little planning goes a long way when turning a backyard into a wedding-ready space. Here’s how to break it down:

3 Months Out

Now’s the time to decide on a simple theme or color palette. Since you’re working with an outdoor space, consider what naturally fits in; earthy tones, soft pastels, or simple whites and greens always work well. If you already have elements like a wooden table, a patio, or a tree-lined fence, think about what small details will complement them.

Start thinking about big decor pieces. Will you need a ceremony arch? String lights? A lounge area? If you’re renting chairs or bringing in extra tables, book them now.

1 Month Out

This is when you gather decor items. If you’re DIYing elements like a welcome sign or table centerpieces, this is the time to finish them up. String lights, candles, and place settings should all be ready to go.

Walk through your backyard and visualize where everything will go. If there’s an area that feels empty, consider adding lanterns, potted plants, or extra seating.

1 Week Out

Do a trial run at the same time of day as your wedding. If you’re getting married in the evening, make sure there’s enough lighting in key areas like the ceremony spot, dining table, and pathways. If certain parts of the yard feel dark, add lanterns or extra string lights.

Test your seating arrangements, confirm your decor placement, and make any final tweaks before the big day.

Keeping Decor Budget-Friendly

You don’t need extravagant decor to make a backyard wedding feel special. A few simple tricks can elevate the space without spending a fortune.

Use what you already have

A wooden dining table, patio chairs, or even a tree in the yard can be part of the decor. Instead of renting a fancy bar setup, repurpose a vintage table or use a cart for drinks.

Borrow decor from friends or family

Ask around—someone might have extra string lights, vases, or table linens from their own wedding.

Keep florals simple

Instead of large, expensive arrangements, opt for wildflowers or greenery in small vases. Potted plants or herbs can also double as decor and take-home gifts for guests.

String lights are the easiest way to create ambiance

Drape them around trees, along fences, or over the dining area. They instantly make any backyard feel more intimate and romantic.

Ceremony Setup

The ceremony is the heart of your wedding, but you don’t need a big setup to make it feel special.

If you have a natural focal point, use it

A large tree, garden arch, or even a section of the fence can serve as the perfect backdrop. If you want something more defined, a simple wooden arch or macramé hanging works beautifully. Draping fabric over a pergola or between trees is another easy way to create a ceremony space without too much effort.

Seating should be relaxed

Benches, folding chairs, or even mismatched chairs from inside your home can create a cozy, intimate feel. If you’re going for a more casual vibe, layering rugs or cushions on the grass for guest seating is a fun alternative.

Aisle decor doesn’t need to be over-the-top

Line the aisle with small potted plants, lanterns, or scattered flower petals. If you’re getting married at sunset, candles in glass jars along the aisle can create a stunning glow.

A welcome sign at the entrance sets the tone

It can be something as simple as a chalkboard, a wooden board with handwritten calligraphy, or even a framed print that matches your wedding theme.

Dining & Reception Setup

With a small backyard wedding, you don’t need multiple tables. One long wooden table brings everyone together and creates a warm, intimate setting.

Table Decor

The table itself is a statement piece

If you have a rustic wooden table, skip the tablecloth and go for a linen runner or simple gauzy fabric. A row of candles, lanterns, or small vases with flowers down the center keeps things elegant without being overwhelming.

Candles and lanterns add a soft glow, especially for an evening dinner

Mixing different heights—some low tea lights, some taller taper candles—creates depth and warmth.

Place settings should be simple but thoughtful

Linen napkins, a sprig of rosemary or lavender, and handwritten place cards can make each seat feel special. If you’re using mismatched glassware, let it be part of the charm.

Lounge Area

A relaxed seating area gives guests a place to gather before and after dinner. You don’t need much—just a few cushioned chairs, floor pillows, or a small loveseat. A soft throw blanket over the back of a chair can make it feel even cozier.

Bar or Drink Station

A self-serve drink station keeps things casual and fun. A rustic table, bar cart, or even a wooden crate setup can work as a DIY bar. If you have a signature cocktail, display it on a handwritten sign.

Final Backyard Wedding Decor Touches

Lighting is what makes a backyard wedding feel magical once the sun sets. String lights, candles, and lanterns should be placed where guests will be—above the dining table, along pathways, and near the lounge area.

If guests need to walk across grass or gravel, consider adding a few rugs or stepping stones to create a more comfortable pathway.

Bug repellent is a must for outdoor weddings. Citronella candles work well, or you can set up a discreet station with bug spray.

Lastly, always have a backup plan for weather. A small tent or a few umbrellas can be lifesavers if rain is in the forecast.

Final Backyard Wedding Decor Checklist

Step-by-Step Decor Planning

✅ 3 Months Out

• Choose a theme and color palette that works with your backyard space
• Decide on big decor pieces (ceremony arch, string lights, lounge area)
• Book rentals for chairs, tables, or any additional decor
• Plan how to work with existing backyard elements (trees, fences, patio, garden)

✅ 1 Month Out

• Gather all decor elements (string lights, candles, table settings, florals)
• Finish any DIY decor projects
• Walk through the backyard and finalize decor placement

✅ 1 Week Out

• Do a trial setup at the same time of day as the wedding
• Check lighting and add lanterns or extra lights if needed
• Secure lightweight decor if there’s wind

Keeping Decor Budget-Friendly

✅ Use existing backyard elements as decor (wooden table, patio furniture, trees)
✅ Borrow decor from friends or family (string lights, vases, fabric, signs)
✅ Keep florals simple with wildflowers, greenery, or potted plants
✅ Use string lights to instantly create ambiance
✅ Repurpose items—old crates, barrels, or trays can double as decor

Ceremony Decor

✅ Backdrop/Arch

• Use an existing tree or garden feature as a natural backdrop
• Add a simple wooden arch, draped fabric, or macramé hanging

✅ Seating

• Arrange benches, folding chairs, or mismatched indoor chairs for a cozy feel
• Layer outdoor rugs or blankets for alternative seating options

✅ Aisle Decor

• Line the aisle with candles, lanterns, potted plants, or flower petals

✅ Welcome Sign

• Chalkboard, wooden, or framed sign at the entrance

✅ Lighting

• String lights or lanterns if the ceremony is near sunset

Dining & Reception Setup

✅ Table Decor

• One long wooden table for an intimate feel
• Use a linen runner instead of a full tablecloth
• Add simple greenery (eucalyptus, ivy, wildflowers) as a centerpiece
• Include candles, lanterns, or fairy lights for evening ambiance
• Place settings with linen napkins
• Small decorative touches (sprigs of rosemary, handwritten name cards)
• Mismatched glassware for a relaxed, effortless style

✅ Lounge Area

• Cushioned chairs, a loveseat, or floor pillows for a cozy gathering spot
• Throw blankets for extra comfort
• Small coffee table or vintage trunk for drinks/snacks

✅ Bar or Drink Station

• Bar cart, rustic table, or wooden crate setup
• Self-serve drink dispensers for lemonade, iced tea, or cocktails
• Custom sign with signature cocktail details

Final Backyard Wedding Decor Touches

✅ Pathway Lighting (Lanterns, candles, or solar lights to line walkways)

✅ Bug Repellent

✅ Weather Considerations (tent, umbrellas)

Print Your Checklist

A backyard wedding doesn’t need to be extravagant. With the right decor, it will feel warm, inviting, and effortlessly beautiful. The best part? It’s a space that already feels like home, making it the perfect place to start your next chapter.