How to have a Dreamy Backyard Wedding in Oahu

May 22, 2025

A gold-framed glass seating chart titled “Our Favorite People” displays handwritten cards, arranged in rows, set outdoors among green plants and colorful flowers.

When you think about getting married in Hawaii, you probably picture epic beaches, big resorts, and lush gardens. But here’s the thing—some of the most meaningful weddings happen right in your own backyard. Just look at Joyce and Drew’s wedding in their family home in Kaneohe. They proved you don’t need a fancy venue to make something seriously magical. With the right planning, a little creativity, and the spirit of Aloha, your backyard wedding in Oahu can be everything you’ve dreamed of and more.

Two vertical floral arrangements with pink and red flowers and greenery are set outdoors in front of dense green foliage.

A wooden tray holding a crystal decanter with brown liquor, bottles of Bacardi rum and Don Julio, a metal jigger, and a notepad reading “LOVE & MAKERS” on a table.

A wicker chair with white cushions and a green leaf pillow is set on gravel next to an easel with a white sign; a bouquet of flowers decorates the chair. Shrubs and trees are in the background.

Why Choose a Backyard Wedding in Oahu?

There’s something super special about hosting your wedding at home. It’s a place full of memories, comfort, and all the good vibes. For Joyce and Drew, getting married at their family home in Kaneohe brought an extra dose of sentimentality to their big day. The lush backyard made for a killer backdrop for their vows.

But honestly, it’s not just about the view; having your wedding at home gives you a level of intimacy and personalization that big venues can’t touch! You get to set up the ceremony space exactly how you want, add those personal touches that tell your story, and celebrate in a place that feels 100% yours. And the best part? No venue rules or availability stress, you make the calls!

outdoor Backyard wedding ceremony in Oahu, couple stands at the end of the aisle

outdoor Backyard wedding ceremony in Oahu bride walks down the aisle

Making the Most of Your Space

One of the best things about a backyard wedding is its flexibility! With some thoughtful planning, you can turn even the simplest space into a beautiful wedding venue. Here are some tips to make the most of your Oahu backyard:

Embrace the Natural Beauty

In Hawaii, nature does all the decorating for you. Joyce and Drew’s ceremony was surrounded by lush greenery, and it was the perfect setting. One thing to keep in mind: think about where the sun will be during your ceremony and plan your setup to make sure you’re getting the best light for those photos.

A bride in a white dress and a groom in a white military uniform stand together on a forested path, smiling and holding a bouquet for their backyard wedding in Oahu

Create Cozy Spaces

One of my favorite things about backyard weddings is the ability to create little nooks and cozy areas for guests. Whether it’s a lounge area with plush cushions or a quiet corner with string lights, these spaces make your wedding feel welcoming and intimate.

Plan for Weather Changes

While Oahu is known for its beautiful weather, it’s always good to have a backup plan! Consider renting a tent or some umbrellas just in case of a sudden rain shower. It’s better to be prepared so the celebration can continue rain or shine.

Lighting Is Everything

If your wedding extends into the evening, think about how you want to light up the space. String lights, lanterns, and candles can create a magical glow that makes everything feel even more special.

The Joy of Personalization

One of the best things about a backyard wedding? You get to make it 100% your own. Joyce and Drew incorporated personal touches everywhere. These little moments added so much personality and warmth to the celebration.

When you host your wedding at home, you get the freedom to do things your way. Want to have a late-night bonfire after the reception? Go for it! Feel like turning the living room into a dance floor? It’s your call! The possibilities are endless when you’re not confined to a traditional venue’s rules.

People sit around round tables at an outdoor evening event with string lights overhead, surrounded by trees and greenery for a dreamy backyard wedding in oahu

A bride and groom, both dressed in white, cut a tall white wedding cake together at an outdoor evening reception with string lights above.

Neon sign displaying the word "Together" in cursive font, illuminated in yellow, placed against a backdrop of large green tropical leaves.

Vendor Tips for a Backyard Wedding in Oahu

Even though you’re hosting at home, having the right vendors can make everything run smoothly:

Catering: Hire a caterer who’s familiar with outdoor events. They’ll know how to handle setup, breakdown, and food safety in a non-traditional space.

Florist: Choose flowers that are local and in season to avoid high costs and ensure they hold up in the Hawaiian heat.

Rentals: Don’t forget the essentials—chairs, tables, linens, and maybe even a tent if you want that extra bit of coverage.

Photographer: Make sure to choose an Oahu wedding photographer who understands how to work with natural light and capture intimate moments (aka me!). I love photographing backyard weddings because it’s easy to catch those unguarded, real-life moments that happen in the comfort of home!

A group of people dressed in formal attire dance together at an outdoor backyard wedding in Oahu

Why a Backyard Wedding Might Be Perfect for You

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s full of heart, personality, and laid-back island vibes, a backyard wedding on Oahu is a perfect choice! It’s a way to bring your loved ones together in a space that feels familiar and special. Joyce and Drew’s day was proof that you don’t need a ballroom or beachfront property to have the perfect Oahu wedding. With the right touches, your backyard can transform into the most beautiful venue you’ve ever seen.

A performer in traditional attire dances with fire sticks and stands over a line of fire, while two people watch in the background outside a house at night.

Book me as your Oahu wedding photographer

If you’re thinking about capturing those moments in a way that feels real and full of life, I’d love to be there to photograph it all. There’s something so special about documenting weddings where every corner holds a memory and every smile is genuine! See more of my work here on Pinterest and book me as your Oahu wedding photographer!