With a private property wedding, you have the freedom to design a celebration that’s truly tailored to your tastes, surrounded by the natural beauty of the great outdoors. But, let’s be honest, planning a private property wedding can be a daunting task. From selecting the perfect location to navigating local regulations and coordinating vendors, there are countless details to consider. However, don’t let that discourage you. In this guide, we will walk you through the key things to consider when planning a private property wedding, so you can make your special day unforgettable!
THE LOCATION
The first thing you need to do is find the perfect location. This is a big decision as it sets the stage and tone for your big day. Maybe you’ve got a family farm with breathtaking views, or a relative with a beach house that’s just begging to be transformed into the perfect wedding venue. Perhaps your childhood backyard has just the right amount of charm and sentimental value to host the wedding of your dreams.
Once you’ve secured your dream location, it’s time to start the planning process. Here are some of the things you need to consider:
THE FEEL
When it comes to styling a Wedding with a blank canvas venue, this is super exciting from a stylist perspective. With endless styling options, the theme of the wedding will ultimately depend on the location and surroundings of the property, as well as the structure chosen. A rustic Tipi tent could create a cozy and intimate atmosphere, while a luxury Sperry tent could bring elegance and sophistication to the event. A clear marquee with twinkling stars overhead could create a magical and romantic ambiance. Whatever the choice, the beauty of styling a private property wedding is the freedom to create a truly personal and unforgettable experience for the couple and their guests. View our Guide to Wedding Structures here.
STYLING, FURNITURE AND DÉCOR
A major difference between a private property wedding and a traditional venue is that you’ll need to bring in everything from scratch - from floor to ceiling! But the upside is that you’re not limited to any particular style or decor, and can choose exactly what you want. For example your stylist will need to provide tables and chairs for guests, tableware, glasses, and cutlery, linens and napkins, lighting equipment including fairy lights, candles and lanterns. Plus furniture and decor such as lounge suites, coffee tables, rugs, and cushions, and signage including directional signs and menus.
The list of items needed for a private property wedding is extensive and can easily be overlooked. That’s why we’ve created a comprehensive styling and planning checklist to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
THE LOGISTICS
Let’s face it, pulling off an extraordinary event requires a lot of logistics. Here are some key elements that need to be taken into consideration:
Power, Water & Bathrooms
When it comes to private property weddings, power is essential for your vendors. Keep in mind the electricity requirements for your caterer, DJ, and lighting team. Access to running water is another must-have for your catering and bar services. While you may have access to indoor bathrooms, why not elevate the experience with a VIP toilet trailer? With a touch of floral and candle decor, your guests will be feeling fancy in no time.
Lighting and Sound
Let’s shed some light on the importance of lighting and sound. Whether you’re going for a romantic, intimate vibe or a lively, dance-party atmosphere, lighting and sound can make or break the mood.
Make sure to consider adequate lighting for the caterers, guests to eat food, and ambient lighting for the overall atmosphere. Festoon lights and fairy lights are great options to build up enough light into the event, and candles can add a cozy touch. And don’t forget to light up pathways to key areas like exits and parking areas.
When it comes to sound, ensure that you have enough power for your vendors, including the DJ or band. Also, consider the acoustics of the space to ensure that the music is not overpowering or echoing. Using professional experienced suppliers who can assist you with this is imperative.
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Access
Access is also important to consider, especially if you’re having a structure set up. Make sure there’s plenty of room for vans and trucks and other vendors to set up, and that there are multiple access points to the property. As for parking, make sure there’s enough space for your guests to park their cars. And don’t forget about getting them home safely! Check for public transportation options, or consider arranging a shuttle service.
THE COST
Let’s be real, a private property wedding can end up costing just as much or even more than a traditional venue. On one hand, a private property wedding may have lower venue costs since you won’t have to pay for a traditional venue rental. However, you may need to spend more money on things like furniture, lighting, sound equipment, and catering to ensure the property is equipped for a wedding.
On the other hand, a venue wedding often comes with a built-in infrastructure and amenities, such as tables, chairs, lighting, and sound equipment, which can help keep costs down. However, venue costs can be higher due to the rental fee, catering minimums, and other fees.
However, the end result can be a spectacular event that your guests will cherish forever!
HIRE A PROFESSIONAL
Phew, that’s a lot to think about, right? Don’t worry, we know that it can be overwhelming to plan such an elaborate event. Fortunately, you don’t have to do it alone. We highly recommend hiring a professional planner to help you with all the details. Our team can work with you to create the perfect design, choose the right decor, create floor plans and run sheets, and manage all the suppliers to ensure that everything runs smoothly and stress-free. With our help, you can have the best day ever without worrying about a thing!
If you have a vision for a private property wedding on the Sunshine Coast, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We would be thrilled to assist you in crafting a truly unforgettable celebration.