How to Prepare for a Backyard Wedding in Charlotte (or Anywhere in NC!)
Tips from a Durham, Raleigh & Charlotte Wedding Photographer + Videographer
Planning a backyard wedding in Charlotte, Durham, or Raleigh? You’re in for something magical. There’s something deeply personal and beautiful about saying “I do” at home — whether it’s under a canopy of trees in your childhood backyard, in a garden you’ve tended together, or on a quiet piece of family land.
As a North Carolina wedding photographer and videographer who has captured many intimate, at-home celebrations in Charlotte, Raleigh, and Durham, I’ve learned a few key things that help couples feel relaxed and ready when the big day arrives. Here’s your go-to list to help you prepare.
1.Create a Solid Rain Plan (Trust Me!)
Even the most beautiful Carolina days can surprise you. Whether you're planning a backyard wedding in Charlotte's warm spring, Durham's lush summer, or Raleigh's colorful fall, be sure to prepare for weather. Consider:
Renting a clear-top tent for coverage that still feels open and airy
Having umbrellas on hand for guests
Coordinating with your photographer and videographer to make sure lighting and gear are covered
Pro tip: A rainy wedding day can be stunning on film — soft light, dramatic clouds, and lots of romantic vibes!
2.Think About Light (For Photos + Film)
The best light for wedding photography and videography is typically during golden hour — the hour before sunset. Talk to your Charlotte wedding photographer and videographer about the best time for your ceremony to make the most of natural light.
Also, think about:
Where the sun sets on your property
Avoiding harsh midday light if possible
Adding string lights, lanterns, or soft uplighting for evening ambience
3.Hire a Day-of Coordinator (Even for Backyard Weddings)
This is one of the best investments you can make. A day-of coordinator helps with:
Vendor setup and timeline flow
Guest questions and logistics
Keeping you relaxed and present
Whether you're tying the knot in Charlotte, Durham, or Raleigh, having someone behind the scenes makes a huge difference — especially at a private home where you're wearing more hats. I highly recommend: Rebecca at Events by Rebs, contact her here: https://eventsbyrebs.com
4.Prepare the Space Like a Venue
Here’s a quick checklist for making your backyard event feel polished and welcoming:
Mow the lawn, trim hedges, and tidy up the landscape a few days before
Add signage to help people find parking or the ceremony space
Consider a generator for extra power if needed for catering, sound, or lighting
Your Charlotte backyard wedding doesn’t need to be extravagant — just thoughtful and intentional.
5.Make Room for Beautiful Photo + Video Moments
You don’t need a grand ballroom for stunning portraits. Backyard weddings offer intimate, emotional, and unique backdrops — especially in places that already carry meaning for you.
Some of our favorite at-home wedding photo and video moments in Raleigh, Durham, and Charlotte include:
First looks under a canopy of trees
Golden hour portraits on the lawn
Laughing with family on the porch or steps
Candlelit dinner under string lights
As a wedding videographer in Charlotte, I love capturing those quiet, in-between moments that happen more naturally in familiar spaces.
6.Communicate with Neighbors
It’s easy to forget, but letting neighbors know your plans (especially for music or parking) can help the day run more smoothly and stress-free.
7.Don’t Skip the Details That Matter Most to You
Just because you’re at home doesn’t mean you have to scale back your vision. Whether it’s:
Custom vows - like this couple's private vow exchange
Live music
A heartfelt toast
A full video ceremony and highlight film
…bring those special touches in. Your backyard wedding deserves the same kind of intentional beauty you’d find at any venue — maybe more.
Looking for a Wedding Photographer or Videographer in Charlotte, Durham, or Raleigh?
If you're planning an intimate backyard wedding in Charlotte, Raleigh, or Durham, I’d love to help you document it — both in photos and on film.
Reach out here to learn more about our photo and video wedding packages — including full ceremony coverage, highlight films, and heirloom wedding albums. Let’s make something beautiful together.
Hello there and thank you for stopping by! I’m Katrina, the heartbeat behind Fifty Two Hundred Photo + Film, in Durham, North Carolina. I specialize in capturing meaningful and precious memories for remarkable families in North Carolina. I hope you enjoyed this story I shared today and if you are interested in learning more about The Time Capsule membership, or let’s connect. Not quite ready to connect, but you would like to follow along the journey? Follow me on Instagram and let’s be friends!
Katrina is a family photographer and family filmmaker in Durham, North Carolina. She offers lifestyle newborn photography, family photography and family videography which focuses on capturing authentic and honest moments for families. Her clients love that not only do they get digital files from their session but artwork to display in their home. She is happy to custom albums so you can revisit your favorite memories for years to come! Be sure to check out the Adobe partnership to see Katrina sharing her knowledge on capturing magical light to highlight the essence of each family.
Want an easy way to make something beautiful out of all your phone photos and videos? Learn more about the Time Capsule Membership here.