A Backyard Wedding Courtesy of Style Me Pretty

An article in Tuesday's New York Times titled "With This Burger, I Thee Wed" chronicles an (economy-fueled) trend away from lavish, over-the-top weddings and towards the seating of guests comfortably in a backyard. Whether the yard belongs to a family member or is an old, rented-out estate, the fare being served at these weddings is reminiscent of a backyard barbecue: comfort food with simple flavors that aren't complicated or pretentious.

While I agree that the backyard reception is becoming trendy -- across class lines -- I think it started before the economy took a turn for the worse. Some of my favorite wedding blogs, such as Style Me Pretty, a go-to for many brides (especially DIY brides), have been stressing the importance of having a wedding that truly reflects the couple's personality.

A shiny, fancy affair may still be the Cinderella dream of many, but for others, it's a dream transformed into something lower-key. In the eyes of many, the more comfortable the wedding, the more fun is to be had.



Jon and I looked at more than 11 venues in just three days, hoping to find something that really reflected our style. We looked at everything -- from hotel ballrooms to museums to old estates. While many were grand and gorgeous, we couldn't picture ourselves serving grilled cheese sliders and doughnuts in a room dotted with crystal chandeliers. We wanted to feel the grass between our toes and see our guests relax in a comfortable setting.

Outside venues lend themselves to customization. They're empty canvases begging for the perfect color palette: turquoise and brown; red and black; yellow and brown -- anything is possible. Country or modern chic, candles in mason jars or Chinese lanterns hung over the tables, it's up to you. Heck, you can even have a thoroughly black-tie affair outside. Just hang chandeliers from trees!

When you think about it, what are the two things guests always talk about when the wedding is over and done with? It's either the food or the entertainment. Of course the venue, flowers and favors can be gorgeous, but guests attend with the intention of having a great time -- eating, drinking and dancing!

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