How to Plan a Backyard Wedding in Alberta: Some Tips to Plan Your Day

Backyard weddings are something I started to fully appreciate when it became more normalized in 2020 and since then, has become my favourite type of wedding!
Whether it’s your family’s acreage, a friend’s farm, or your own home, there’s something incredibly meaningful about getting married in a place that already holds so many memories. I’ve photographed a lot of these intimate, (sometimes micro) weddings and I’ve seen firsthand how beautiful they can be and how tricky they can get without the right prep.

So, here are some tips to help you plan a backyard wedding that’s laid-back, personal, and stunning.

Ceremony Setup for Best Lighting

1. Plan your ceremony for soft, flattering light

Midday sun can be harsh and squinty, especially in wide open spaces. If possible, plan your ceremony for later in the afternoon – even if its not close to sunset, having slightly more angled sun can eliminate really harsh shadows.

2. Think about shade and direction

If you decide to have your ceremony a bit earlier in the day, then taking advantage of shade (especially open shade) will help! A large tree, floral arch, or fabric backdrop can help diffuse light beautifully. But not only that, it can keep you and your guests shaded from the sun and it will be easier on everyones eyes.
*Pro tip – if you create paper itineraries for your guests, add a little handle to them so they can be used as fans on really hot days!

Dinner Set Up Tips for Family-Style Dinner

1. Rent long tables and mix in cozy, mismatched chairs

Family-style dinners feel more connected with longer tables. Don’t be afraid to mix woods, chairs, and textures – it all adds charm.

2. Think about layout and flow

Set up your dinner area in a cozy corner of the yard – near the house, under some trees, or near string lights. Or better yet, rent a clear tent (if your yard is big enough)! It can act as a deterrent to bad weather and can also be easily warmed up once the sun goes down with a good heater.
If possible – creating 3 separate areas (ceremony, cocktail hour/snacks and dinner area) is the most ideal, so your guests have options to bounce between.

3. Use florals to tie it all together

Florals don’t have to be extravagant – a few well-placed centerpieces, wildflower jars, or even foraged greenery can elevate the table setting and bring in softness. Let your florist (or a flower-loving friend) create movement and texture that complements the natural surroundings.
It’s also common in traditional weddings to repurpose ceremony flowers/arches/aisle decor in the area you host your reception!

Sunset Photos & Embracing Candid Moments with Friends & Family

1. Build sunset photos into your timeline

I’ll be first to admit that I really look forward to sneaking away for golden hour for a quick photo break while guests finish dessert or mingle. You usually don’t have to go far and usually your photographer can keep track of how the sun is setting to let you know when the perfect moment is to sneak off for 10 minutes. I really encourage all of my couples to do this, not only for the photos but because usually you’ll feel more lessened up, less nervous and theres nothing like food and drinks to make you feel relaxed and happy!

2. Let the party unfold naturally

Candids of your friends laughing, dancing, or clinking glasses under floral string installations or around rustic tables tell the real story of the night.
Although I do encourage a little bit of planned time for family photos after your ceremony, genuinely spending time with your loved ones can produce the most beautiful candids.

🌸 A Quick Note on Florals

You don’t need massive installations for your wedding to feel elevated – just thoughtful touches. A bouquet that feels like it was gathered from a nearby field. An arch that frames the sunset. Florals have a way of softening structures, elevating photos, and tying the whole day together. Whether you’re working with a florist or DIY’ing, think about texture, movement, and colour that complements the natural setting rather than competing with it. Work within a colour palette to help make everything look cohesive.

Backyard weddings are filled with heart. They’re more than just a pretty backdrop – they’re layered with meaning, comfort, and connection. With thoughtful planning (and a photographer who knows how to roll with the elements), you can have a day that feels effortless, true to you, and deeply beautiful.