About Austin
Austin, Texas is an enticing and vibrant city located in the heart of the Lone Star State. It has an exciting cultural scene and is renowned for its lively music, live entertainment, and outdoor activities. With its wide variety of attractions and activities, it is no wonder that Austin is often referred to as the “Live Music Capital of the World."
In addition to all these attractions, Austin is home to some of the most beautiful backyard venues in the United States. These spaces are perfect for hosting special events such as weddings or parties with friends and family. The scenery surrounding these locations provides a stunning backdrop for any event held within them, while their natural beauty gives off a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Backyard venues also have become increasingly popular among Austinites due to their affordability compared to traditional wedding halls or banquet rooms. Couples who choose to organize weddings at one of these backyard venues are sure to have a unique experience that they will remember for years to come!
Backyard Wedding Options in Austin
- Catering
A local catering company can deliver a variety of food options for your guests. They will work with you to create a menu that fits your taste and budget.
- Decorations
There are many decorating options available for backyard weddings. Popular ideas for a backyard setting include floral arrangements, lanterns, and string lights.
- Music
Music is a key part of any wedding ceremony. The age-old question stands, DJ or band? Whichever you choose, you are sure to keep your guests on their toes during your reception.
Backyard Wedding Vendors in Austin
- Events by Megan Olivia
Events by Megan Olivia offers a wide range of services to make your event unique and memorable, including day-of coordination, bar service, entertainers, and custom-made decorations. The company is licensed and insured for private events of any size, small or large! With 15 years of experience in the service industry, company owner Megan Olivia is a seasoned veteran in the event planning business.
- American Party Rental
American Party Rental has been providing Austin with event solutions needs for over 30 years. The company carries a wide range of items, from chairs and table runners to carnival games and tents. And if you don't need something in bulk, no problem! APR can deliver rentals for weddings, birthday parties, corporate gatherings, and more.
- Sara Terry Photography
Sara Terry is a freelance photographer based in Austin, Texas. Sara has been photographing professionally for over six years and has a wealth of experience in family, portrait, and couples photography. She spent 80 hours in professional seminars and workshops to hone her skills, and as a result, she is very knowledgeable about photography and is able to provide her clients with high-quality photos.
Pros and Cons of Backyard Weddings in Austin
Austin is a great place to have a wedding, and having it in a backyard is a convenient and cost-effective option. There are many pros and cons to consider when deciding if organizing a backyard wedding in Austin is right for you.
Advantages
- Backyard wedding venues offer a great deal of flexibility when it comes to styling and decorating. Couples can choose from an array of options, such as a classic garden style or even a bohemian chic theme.
- Having a backyard wedding is often much cheaper than other venues. It eliminates the need to rent out an expensive space, so you can use that saved money towards other areas of your wedding planning or even put it towards your honeymoon fund.
- The close-knit atmosphere of a backyard ceremony allows for an intimacy that most venues cannot offer. Not only does this create a greater sense of community but also makes it much more enjoyable and memorable than in larger settings.
Disadvantages
- Hosting a backyard wedding means limited space which can present some challenges when it comes to accommodating all guests comfortably while also creating enough room for food, beverages, and any other activities taking place throughout the evening.
- Depending on the chosen location, other possible issues could include noise pollution caused by nearby roads or businesses resulting in too much ambient noise making conversations between guests difficult.
- The weather in Austin can be unpredictable at times which may deter some couples from having their wedding outdoors, mostly due to the humid climate during summertime months.
Tips on How to Organize Backyard Weddings in Austin
Organizing a backyard wedding in Austin can be a challenge, but it is possible with careful planning and thoughtful preparation. Here are some tips to help make your special day come together without a hitch!
- Plan Ahead – As with any other occasion, planning ahead is essential to success. Get permits and approvals from responsible authorities if needed, rent tables and chairs if necessary, and book professionals such as photographers and caterers well in advance.
- Choose the Right Location – Be sure that the backyard space you choose is big enough to accommodate guests, decorations, tables, chairs, and any other necessary equipment. Consider factors such as parking space and access to power outlets when determining the right location for your wedding.
- Maximize the Space – Make the most out of the available space by setting up multiple stations for food or drinks to reduce wait times for guests. Invest in high-quality tents or umbrellas to keep your guests protected from weather elements like rain or too much sun. Additionally, create designated areas for games or activities that will entertain your visitors during reception hours.
- Consider Lighting Effects – Outdoor nuptials are exceptionally beautiful at night when appropriately lit up. Use creative lighting effects such as paper lanterns or string lights on trees to create an inviting ambiance during the ceremony and reception.
- Offer Comfort Items – Provide items like blankets or bug spray to make sure your attendees are comfortable throughout the entire event. Additionally, consider having light snacks like popcorn or bottled water available throughout different parts of the venue so that everyone remains hydrated and well-fed!
- Practice Health Protocols – Take into account safety regulations when organizing a backyard wedding in Austin, particularly with regard to noise restrictions and any other local ordinances.
Famous Locations in Austin
- 'I Love You So Much' Mural
Thanks to Instagram, the most popular street corner in Austin is now officially the green wall with spray-painted words that say "I love you so much." Located on busy South Congress Avenue, this mural on the wall of Jo's Coffee has become a go-to spot for people who want a photo together. All you need is someone you love (or like a lot) and voila! The mural was created by local musician Amy Cook who wrote a love letter to her girlfriend by spray painting the wall. Now people all over can feel the love emanating from Austin!
- Tarrytown
Tarrytown is one of the richest neighborhoods in Austin, boasting both large historic mansions and modern homes. It extends from MoPac to Lake Austin, with Lake Austin Boulevard just outside its borders. Reed Park is a popular weekend destination for those passionate about nature who live in the area. The 6-acre park has a playground, swimming pool, soccer field, picnic tables, and a small walking trail alongside a creek. Tarrytown's Mayfield Preserve is another veritable oasis, with lovely gardens, stately peacocks, and idyllic ponds full of water lilies.
- Covert Park at Mount Bonnell
Nestled atop Mount Bonnell, Covert Park provides visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the city of Austin and its surroundings. At 775 feet above the Colorado River, the park offers some of the best vantage points in the city, making it a popular spot for watching the sunrise and sunset. First opened to the public in the 1850s, Covert Park is one of Austin's oldest tourist attractions and continues to inspire visitors with its natural beauty.
