5 Amazing Free and Almost Free Backyard Wedding Reception Ideas

When you decided to celebrate your marriage at home the decision was probably driven by your desire to keep it simple, save money, and have a casual, fun backyard wedding reception.

Even laid back and relaxed receptions can get out of hand though. There are easily hundreds of fabulous articles and blog posts you can draw inspiration from. Martha Stewart alone has about a jillion.

The focus of this page is to share 5 of the funnest and unique ideas that I've encountered with the K.i.s.s Brides I've featured on the blog. These stand out as being really special! They are truly inspirational gems if you're on the lookout for really simple, entertaining, and clever ideas that won't put a dent into your budget.

1) A Bonfore Is An Inexpensive But Super Fun Activity For A Backyard Reception

I'm a real fan of fun reception activites. It a fun time-filler and will keep people entertained. This idea is one of the many benefits to being a backyard bride. It also happens to be my all-time-favorite reception activity! If you have the space for a bonfire (or smaller fire) then go for it. It's cheap (practically free) and provides good entertainment for your guests who aren't into dancing.

backyard bonfire for reception
Photo by Tracie Howe
 
backyard bonfire for reception
Photo by Olivia Gird

2) Barnyard Table Seating For Backyard Receptions Is A Simple Alternative With No Extra Cost

Are you looking for super simple planning tips and decorations for a fun backyard reception and ceremony? Here's another one of my favorites! Since you need seating anyways why not give it real Tuscan-flair with barnyard table reception seating. There's something about this kind of set up that's very celebratory. If you've ever seen 'Under the Tuscan Sun' that's exactly the feeling this kind of seating will give your backyard reception.

barnyard style seating for backyard reception
Photo by Melissa Dunstan
 
barnyard style seating for backyard wedding reception
Photo by Hendrickson Photography

3) Roasted Marshmallows Are An Almost Free, Fun and Yummy Activity For Backyard Receptions

If you're not into silly reception games but want to find a fun way to entertain your guests say hello to this new and fabulous trend - the roasted marshmallow station. Isn't it perfect for casual receptions in your backyard!

roasted marshmallows station for backyard reception
Photo by Olivia Gird Photography
 
roasted marshmallows station for backyard wedding reception
Photo by Olivia Gird Photography

4) DIY Wine Station Will Let You Save On Servers At Your Backyard Reception

With the cost of servers and your reception menu being so high, this tip will help you save alot on your beverage costs, especially since you'll probably be picking up your wine at the liquor store yourself (HUGE saving tip btw!). I love how the bride and groom actually have labels telling people about each wine. If you wanted you could go even further by putting the signs in frames.

wine station for reception
Photo by Diana M Lott

5) Use Potted Plants You'd Get Anyways To Decorate Your Backyard Ceremony And Reception

While we're on the topic of practical, pretty, and cheap decor here's a good one - potted plants! Every backyard needs some pretty potted plants all season long. Why not think ahead and make/buy potted plants that will fit the color and theme of your reception and ceremony. If you make them yourself you'll save even more money while being creative.

potted plants for backyard ceremony decor
Photo by Kim J Martin
 
potted plants for backyard wedding ceremony decor
Photo by Lauren Rae

What it comes down to is this - if you're looking for backyard reception ideas ANYTHING goes. You're lucky to be able to plan your big day in a more relaxed environment which adds the potential for savings in a lot of different places. BUT, at the same time, make sure you remember to prepare for things like rain, extra cold, or even super hot weather. Check out the K.i.s.s Kit for even more saving tips.

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Paper Lanterns Photos - Bowerstock Photography; Wedding Parasols Photo - Photos By DMPJ