Whether it’s been your dream from the start to have a backyard bash, or due to unforeseen circumstances you’ve ended up changing your location (or a little bit of both like me), planning a backyard tent wedding offers a unique opportunity to create a personalized and intimate atmosphere for your special day.
As you lie in bed at night dreaming of your picture-perfect wedding, don’t overlook the importance of seating arrangements, and try to start mapping out what you want early on. Once you’ve finalized your guest count, you’ll have a good sense of how much space you’ll need.
Seating plays a significant role in setting the mood and facilitating interactions among your guests. And when we’re talking about a backyard wedding, we have to consider two important factors, space and man-power.
To help you make the most of your outdoor celebration, we’ve compiled seven creative seating ideas that will transform your backyard into a captivating and comfortable space.
1. Oscar-Style Seating
Oscar-style seating is when guests remain seated at their reception tables during the ceremony.
This seating arrangement emulates the elegance of a theater or awards ceremony, creating a sense of grandeur for your guests and is also super functional for a backyard wedding, when you may not have the space for a ceremony and a reception under your wedding tent. Place rows of chairs in a semicircular or angled formation around the tables facing the altar or wherever you’ll be getting married. This seating style ensures that every guest has a clear view of the main events, such as vows, speeches, performances, and even the first dance.
2. Cabaret-Style Seating
Similar to Oscar-style seating, Cabaret-style is simply taking the chairs set up around your reception tables, and turning them to face towards the altar.
This is perfect for smaller backyards they may not be able to accommodate a reception and a ceremony, and is a unique twist that many guests may not have seen before.
Pro Tip: Check in with your wedding tent rental company to see if they offer any special packages for large parties. These often come with a tent, tables, chairs, and a dance floor, and are usually a lot cheaper than having to rent everything serparately.
3. Eclectic Mix of Vintage Chairs
Bring an eclectic vibe to your backyard tent wedding by incorporating a mix of vintage chairs. Hunt for unique, mismatched chairs from thrift stores or antique markets. Consider different styles, colors, and patterns to create an eye-catching and whimsical seating arrangement. Arrange them in a free-flowing configuration to encourage organic interactions and visual interest.
4. Picnic-Style Seating
Create a relaxed and casual atmosphere by arranging picnic-style seating in your backyard tent. Place comfortable blankets or quilts on the ground, paired with vibrant floor cushions or low stools. Arrange them in clusters or long rows to accommodate groups of guests. Add some rustic wooden tables for guests to place their food and drinks, completing the cozy picnic aesthetic.
5. Bohemian Lounge Areas
Channel a bohemian vibe by creating cozy lounge areas within your backyard tent. Combine plush floor cushions, poufs, and low seating furniture adorned with colorful throw pillows and soft blankets. Use a variety of textures and patterns to achieve an eclectic yet cohesive look. Hang fairy lights or lanterns above these lounge areas to add a touch of enchantment to your evening celebration.
6. Family-Style Dining Tables:
Foster a warm and intimate atmosphere by arranging long family-style dining tables in your backyard tent. Use rustic wooden tables or elegant farm-style tables adorned with lush greenery, flowers, and candles as centerpieces. Encourage guests to mingle and interact by opting for bench seating on both sides of the tables. This setup promotes a sense of togetherness and facilitates lively conversations throughout the meal.
7. Lounge Pods with Sofas and Ottomans
Create intimate and comfortable lounge pods by arranging sofas and ottomans in small groupings. This seating style encourages relaxed conversations and cozy interactions. Opt for plush and inviting furniture pieces that match your wedding theme and color palette. Enhance the ambiance by adding side tables with candles, flowers, and other decorative elements.
Choosing the right seating arrangements for your backyard tent wedding can enhance the overall ambiance and guest experience. Whether you opt for rustic hay bales, vintage chairs, or picnic-style setups, let your creativity shine through. Remember to consider the theme, style, and comfort of your guests when finalizing your seating arrangements. By incorporating these seven seating ideas, you’ll transform your backyard tent into a captivating space that reflects your unique personality and ensures an unforgettable wedding day.
Looking for more outdoor wedding ideas? Check out these Outdoor Wedding Ideas of a Budget for more tips!