Asian weddings are renowned for their vibrancy and grandeur. We’ve all been to weddings with often 300+ guests. However, given recent events, including the pandemic, a growing trend has emerged, focusing on more personal, intimate, and elaborate celebrations held in the back gardens of homes. These weddings offer a nice blend of tradition, customisation, and the comfort of a familiar setting. A memorable experience for the bride and groom and their family and friends.

In contrast to large banquet halls or hotels, home back garden weddings create a warm and personal atmosphere. The smaller space fosters a sense of closeness among guests, allowing them to engage in meaningful conversations and establish deeper connections. Close family and friends can actively participate in the preparations, making the event truly collaborative.

The blank canvas offered by a back garden wedding allows couples to infuse their own tastes and personalities into every aspect of the event. We often work with couples to handpick their wedding decor and floral arrangements for their back garden weddings. I think the aspect we enjoy the most with these weddings is that the setting is ours to style as we feel without any major restrictions. Seating plans can be customised and menus and entertainment choices can be made to ensure every element is thoughtfully curated to reflect the overall vision.

Asha and Ganan opted for a Garden theme in their beautiful back garden. The wedding accommodated over 300 guests for the wedding and reception. Together, we designed a large wooden mandap, adorned with wisteria, willow and green foliage to bring the garden theme to life. In the evening, weaving in the groom’s passion for cars, we incorporated supercars, hidden amongst the lanterns, candles and foliage. Tucked away, by the rock garden, we decorated a backdrop with dried florals for their intimate civil ceremony.

While some couples opt for a simpler and more laid-back affair, others embrace the opportunity to go all out with extravagant decorations and luxurious setups. Home back garden weddings offer the flexibility to choose between simplicity and elaborate designs, depending on the couple’s preferences and budget. 

Here are a few top tops to help you plan your dream back garden wedding:

• Embrace the natural surroundings: Use the beauty of the garden as your backdrop and incorporate elements of nature into your decor. Highlight the existing flowers, trees, and greenery by choosing a colour palette that compliments the surroundings.
• Choose the right seating: Opt for comfortable and elegant seating arrangements that blend seamlessly with the garden setting. Consider using wooden benches, vintage-inspired chairs, or even rustic hay bales covered with soft cushions for a charming touch.
• Talk to us as your decor supplier to use decorative elements like flower arches, mandaps, trellises, or an arbor to create a focal point for your ceremony. Adorn these structures with flowers, foliage, or hanging vines to add a romantic touch.
• Utilise lighting creatively: Outdoor lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood for a garden wedding. Incorporate string lights, lanterns, or fairy lights in trees, along pathways, or above the reception area. Candles or tea lights in mason jars can also create a warm and romantic ambiance.
• Incorporate floral arrangements: Flowers are an integral part of garden weddings. Choose seasonal blooms that reflect your wedding theme and colour palette. Create stunning floral arrangements for the ceremony aisle, reception tables, and other focal points throughout the venue.
• Provide shade and comfort: Ensure your guests are comfortable throughout the event by providing shaded areas, especially if your wedding takes place during the day. Consider renting stylish umbrellas, canopies, or open tents to protect guests from the sun.
• Don’t forget about practical considerations: Keep in mind the weather conditions and have backup plans in case of rain or extreme heat.

Home back garden weddings allow you to fully bring your personality through into your wedding event. Whether you choose a simple or elaborate approach, these weddings create unforgettable memories and provide a comfortable setting where your loved ones can come together to celebrate love, culture, and togetherness. And, forever a place to reminisce.

Did you have a home back garden wedding? What are your recommendations for brides who want to create a similar event? I love talking weddings – feel free to get in touch if you need any advice or to discuss your wedding mandap and garden ceremony ideas.

All the best, 

Rina x

Photocredit – Ed Pereira