Planning your wedding on a private property (like your family’s land, a friend’s backyard, or that charming field where you first said I love you) can feel wildly romantic. It’s personal. It’s picturesque. It’s yours.
But here’s the truth that no one puts on Pinterest: hosting a private property wedding is like building a wedding venue from the ground up…literally. And that means hidden costs (and logistics) that can add up fast.
As luxury weekend wedding planners who’ve helped couples pull off everything from mountaintop ceremonies via helicopter to multi-day festival weddings on dried lake beds (true story), we’re giving you the behind-the-scenes breakdown of what it actually takes to host a private property wedding. Spoiler: it’s more than fairy lights and folding chairs.
All photos by Bailey Fillmore
What Are the Hidden Costs of a Private Property Wedding?
1. Restroom Rentals (because guests don’t want to wait in line for Grandma’s half-bath)
Unless your private property has multiple restrooms that can accommodate 50+ guests, you’ll need luxury restroom trailers. These aren’t your standard porta-potties. They’re air-conditioned, well-lit, and honestly nicer than some restaurant bathrooms.
Cost: $1,500–$4,000+ depending on guest count and number of units
2. Power (because DJs, lights, and caterers don’t run on dreams)
You’ll need a whisper-quiet generator (or three) to power your entire event: lighting, sound systems, cooking equipment, fans or heaters, coffee stations, and more. And you’ll need an electrician or pro (hi, safety!) to help distribute that power safely.
Cost: $1,000–$3,000+ depending on power needs and length of event
3. Rain Plan + Tenting (just in case Mother Nature RSVPs “no”)
Rain plans aren’t optional…they’re essential. Tents can save the day, but they also require permits, labor crews, and equipment like flooring, sidewalls, lighting, and climate control. Check out this INSANE tented wedding we did in the middle of a cow pasture in Zion, Utah.
Cost: $5,000–$25,000+ depending on size, upgrades, and setup timeline
Pro Tip: Some couples assume they can just “wait and see” if the weather turns. But quality tents get booked up months in advance…don’t risk it.
4. Parking + Transportation (because guests won’t want to hike in heels)
Is there enough flat, safe space for cars? Will you need valet service or shuttle transportation from a nearby lot or hotel? What about signage, lighting, and attendants to help direct guests?
Cost: $1,000–$5,000+ for attendants, shuttles, signage, and lighting
5. Permits + Insurance (yes, even on your own land)
You may need permits for amplified sound, alcohol service, tent structures, fire safety, or even parking overflow. Plus, special event insurance is a must and some counties require proof of it to issue permits.
Cost: $500–$2,000+ depending on your county or city
6. Infrastructure You Didn’t Think About (but your planner will!)
- Trash + Recycling Removal
- Lighting for Pathways + Bathrooms
- Vendor Meals + Break Areas
- Security or Overnight Staff (if setting up over multiple days)
- Bug Control (hello citronella and mosquito fogging)
Cost: Varies widely, but budget at least $2,000–$4,000 for “surprise” needs
Is It Worth It?
Absolutely! If the property is meaningful to you and you’re prepared to invest in transforming it into a fully functioning venue. We’ve planned unforgettable weekends on family farms, mountain cabins, lakeside estates, and sprawling backyards. It’s magical but it takes vision, logistics, and a damn good planning team.
TL;DR: Private Property Wedding Costs At-a-Glance
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Restroom Trailers | $1,500–$4,000 |
| Generators + Power Setup | $1,000–$3,000+ |
| Tent + Rain Plan | $5,000–$25,000+ |
| Parking + Shuttles | $1,000–$5,000 |
| Permits + Insurance | $500–$2,000+ |
| Misc. Infrastructure | $2,000–$4,000+ |
| Total Range | $11,000–$43,000+ |
This doesn’t include all the fun stuff like decor, furniture, catering, band/DJ, florals, etc.
Thinking of Saying “I Do” on Your Land?
We’d love to help you dream it, build it, and bring it to life (without the stress). Whether it’s a dried lake bed, your best friend’s backyard, or the family property you’ve always envisioned, our team can make sure it feels like home but functions like a five-star venue.
Ready to talk private-property wedding planning? Let’s chat.
