Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life. If you’re dreaming of a summer wedding, there’s no better place to host it than in your own backyard. Whether you envision an intimate gathering or a lavish affair, hosting your wedding at home can be a truly magical experience. Of course, there are a few things to remember when planning a home-based celebration. Here are a few tips to help you host your summer wedding.
1. Deep Clean the Exterior of Your Home
No one wants to host their wedding in a dirty or unkempt home. If you’re welcoming guests into your home, it’s important to ensure the exterior is clean and presentable. Give your home good power washing. It is advisable to start with your driveway, sidewalks, and porch. When washing your driveway, remember to use a cleaner specifically designed for the material your driveway is made of. After this, you can move on to pressure washing your siding and any stone or brickwork. You’ll also want to make sure your windows are squeaky clean. First impressions matter, so you want to be sure your home looks its best.
If you have the time and budget, you may also want to consider hiring a professional cleaning company to give your home a thorough cleaning before the big day. This way, you can be sure that everything will be sparkling clean for your guests.
2. Landscape Your Yard
As you prepare to host your summer wedding, it’s important to remember that your yard will be a big focal point on your wedding day. As such, you’ll want to make sure it looks its best. Start with your lawn. If you have any dead patches, now is the time to seed and fertilize. You should also trim your hedges and bushes. Once your lawn is looking good, move to the trees and flowers. Ensure all your trees and shrubs are trimmed, and your flower beds are weed-free. Planting some new flowers is also a great way to spruce up your landscaping.
If you’re not confident in your landscaping skills, you may want to consider hiring professional landscaping services. They can help you transform your yard into a beautiful oasis that will impress your guests on your big day.
3. Plan for Parking
As you plan to host your summer wedding at your own home, you’ll need to consider parking for your guests. If you have a large enough driveway or yard, you may be able to accommodate all of your guests’ vehicles. However, if you live in an urban area or don’t have enough space on your property, you may need to look into renting a parking lot or garage nearby. You should also plan to have someone directing traffic and parking on the day of your wedding so that everything runs smoothly.
Another option is to provide valet service for your guests. This is a great way to add a touch of luxury to your wedding and make things more convenient for your guests. However, it is important to note that valet service can be quite expensive. If you are on a budget, you may want to consider another option for parking.
No matter what you decide, be sure to plan ahead so that you can make the best decision for your wedding day. Parking is often one of the most overlooked details of wedding planning, but it is important to consider so your guests can enjoy themselves without any hassle.
4. Repair or Replace Your Roof
Your roof not only serves functional purposes but also adds to your home’s curb appeal. If your roof is in bad shape, it will reflect poorly on the rest of your home. Before you host your summer wedding, contact a roofing company for a repair or replacement estimate. This way, you’ll know what needs to be done and can budget accordingly. A new roof will not only make your home look better but will also give you peace of mind knowing that your guests are safe.
If you’re not sure where to start, search for roofing companies in your area that can offer a free roofing estimate. Once you’ve found a few options, compare their prices and services to find the best fit for your needs. Don’t forget to read online reviews before making your final decision. Hiring a reputable roofing company will ensure your roof is in good hands.
5. Check Your AC Unit
Before you can start planning your dream summer wedding, you need to make sure that your air conditioning unit is up to the task of keeping your guests cool and comfortable. If your AC unit is more than a few years old, it may be time for an upgrade. The last thing you want is for your guests to be sweltering in the heat.
If you’re unsure whether your AC unit is up to the task, it’s a good idea to call in a professional. Air conditioning companies can assess your unit and tell you whether it needs repairs or replacement. They can also provide ac maintenance contracts that will help keep your unit in top condition.
During an ac service check, the technician will examine your unit, clean the coils, and change the air filter to help improve the unit’s efficiency. They will also check the Freon levels and make sure that there are no leaks. This ac maintenance will help keep your unit running smoothly and prevent breakdowns during the summer months.
6. Repair or Upgrade Your Plumbing
Another important consideration when preparing to host your summer wedding at home is your plumbing. If your plumbing is old or in disrepair, it could cause problems during the event. That’s why it’s a good idea to have a professional plumber come out and take a look before the big day. They can assess your plumbing and let you know whether you need to make any repairs or upgrades.
Some common plumbing problems you may need to address include leaks, clogs, and low water pressure. A professional plumber can easily fix these issues. However, if your plumbing is very old or in poor condition, you may need to replace it entirely. This is something you’ll need to discuss with a professional.
Once you’ve taken care of any necessary plumbing repairs or upgrades, be sure to test your plumbing thoroughly. Run all the faucets and flush all the toilets to ensure everything works properly. It’s better to catch any problems now so they can be fixed before your guests arrive.
7. Repair Water Damage
If your home has been affected by water damage, it’s important to have the problem fixed before you host your summer wedding. Water damage can cause all sorts of problems, from mold and mildew to structural damage. Not to mention, it’s just not very pleasant for your guests! If you’re unsure whether your home has water damage, it’s a good idea to call in a professional. They will be able to assess the situation and let you know what needs to be done.
If you do have water damage, it’s important to take care of it as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the worse the problem will get. Water damage can be very costly to repair, so it’s best to take care of it right away. A professional water restoration company will be able to quickly and efficiently fix the problem so you can get on with planning your summer wedding.
8. Renovate Your Bathroom
If your bathroom is old or in disrepair, it’s a good idea to renovate it before you host your summer wedding. This will ensure your guests have a comfortable place to use the restroom during the event. It will also help you avoid any last-minute plumbing problems.
You can either opt for a full bathroom renovation or just make some minor updates. If you’re on a budget, there are plenty of ways to update your bathroom without spending a lot of money. For example, you could paint the walls, replace the fixtures, or even just add some new towels and accessories. If you have the time and money for full kitchen and bath renovations, that’s great! This is an opportunity to really make your bathroom shine. You can add new features, like a walk-in shower or a Jacuzzi tub. Or you can simply update the existing fixtures and finishes to give the space a fresh, new look.
No matter how big or small your bathroom renovation is, it’s important to ensure everything is in good working order before your guests arrive. This means testing the plumbing, checking for leaks, and ensuring the space is clean and presentable.
9. Update Your Driveway
One of the most important things to consider when preparing to host your summer wedding at home is your driveway. If your driveway is in poor condition, it could ruin the look of your event. Not to mention, it could be dangerous for your guests.
There are a few things you can do to update your driveway before your summer wedding. First, you can have it professionally sealed. This will help to protect it from the elements and improve its overall appearance. You can also have cracks and holes repaired. If your driveway is really in bad shape, you may need to have it completely replaced.
Another option is to simply cover your driveway with a portable flooring system. This is a great way to protect your driveway and create a smooth, level surface for your guests to walk on. Portable flooring systems are available in various materials, so you can choose one that best suits your needs.
10. Install an Outdoor Kitchen
If you’re planning to host your summer wedding outdoors, installing an outdoor kitchen is a good idea. This will give you a place to prepare food and keep drinks cool during the event. It will also allow you to entertain your guests before the ceremony.
Installing an outdoor kitchen is a big project, so you’ll need to start planning early. You’ll need to choose a location for the kitchen and determine what type of appliances and features you want. Once you have a plan in place, you can begin shopping for the materials and hiring contractors.
If you want to save money, you can install a basic outdoor kitchen. This will typically just include a grill and a small refrigerator. If you have the budget for it, however, you can go all out and add features like a pizza oven, sink, and dishwasher.
11. Set Up Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor lighting is a must if you’re hosting your summer wedding at home. Not only will it help to create a beautiful atmosphere, but it will also keep your guests safe. There are a few different types of outdoor lighting that you can use.
One option is to string lights across the yard or around the perimeter of the property. This is a great way to add ambiance and make your event feel more festive. You can also use lights to highlight specific areas, like the dance floor or the buffet table.
Another option is to use lanterns or candles. Lanterns are a classic choice for outdoor weddings and can be used in various ways. You can hang them from trees or set them on the ground. Candles are another popular option, and they can be used in conjunction with lanterns or on their own.
12. Rent Some Tables and Chairs
If you’re having a large wedding, you may need to rent some tables and chairs. This will ensure that everyone has a place to sit and eat. It’s a good idea to rent the tables and chairs well in advance so that you can get the best selection.
When choosing tables and chairs, you’ll need to decide what type of material you want. There are various options, including wood, plastic, and metal. You’ll also need to decide what size and shape you want the tables to be. Round tables are typically the best choice for weddings since they allow guests to interact with each other.
Once you’ve chosen the tables and chairs, you’ll need to decide how many you need. This will depend on the size of your guest list. You should also factor in any other furniture you plan to rent, like bar stools or lounge furniture.
13. Get Some Portable Air Conditioners
You’ll need to get some portable air conditioners if you’re hosting your summer wedding in a hot climate. This will ensure that your guests are comfortable during the event. There are various options to choose from, so you can find something that fits your budget and needs. Most ac services providers will also deliver and set up the units for you.
14. Plan How to Finance Your Wedding
No matter how big or small your wedding is, you’ll need to plan how to finance it. This includes everything from the venue rental to the catering costs. One option is to take out home equity loanS. This can give you the funds you need to pay for your wedding and avoid going into debt.
Another option is to use a credit card. This can be a good choice if you have a low-interest rate and can pay off the balance quickly. You should also consider setting up a budget and sticking to it. This will help you to avoid overspending on your big day.
There are a few things that you need to do to host your summer wedding at home. These include choosing a location, renting tables and chairs, and getting portable air conditioners. By following these tips, you can ensure your wedding is successful.