Want to use childhood home backyard for reception

You’re going to have major liability issues, so I can’t imagine anyone would agree. Also, what if they’ve changed the yard since they bought it? I would let this idea go.

As a homeowner, it would make me incredibly uncomfortable if someone asked this of me. Especially since it sounds like you don't actually know/have a relationship with the homeowner.

I agree with PP that it may be best to let this dream go. The liability is way too high where it’s very unlikely anyone, especially a complete stranger, would agree to that. Not to mention that hosting a wedding (even a 30 person event), is a pretty intensive and big deal, and most people would not want 30 complete strangers using their home and property.

Realistically, if a stranger asked me if they could use my home or yard for their wedding, my answer would be no. I would be concerned about a bunch of people (who I don't know) being in my house or even on the property. Liability issues if someone somehow gets injured, possible damage to my property, risk of theft, complaints from neighbors, etc. I think it'd be different if you knew the current homeowner, but in this scenario, I would not ask this of the current owner.

I would say no. The potential liability is just too high when you're dealing with strangers.

Edited to add that so many factors to consider with this plan. I'll name a few: power sources, keeping food at safe temperatures, bathroom availability, parking restrictions, flooring for dancing, lighting, safe walk spaces, tenting the area for weather planning, climate control for guest comfort, catering work spaces, sound/music power sources, safety around the bayou/water area, chairs and tables to eat on, this is only a few off the top of my head.

Major liability issues. Not counting the fact that a backyard wedding costs 100x that of a regular parks department owned venue.


If the home now belongs to a stranger, don’t even consider it. You are infringing on their private property and that makes many people in that hypothetical scenario uncomfortable. It’s the exact same reason that Airbnb doesn’t allow events at any property, regardless if individuals say it’s ok.

Unless the homeowner is a close friend or family member I would not ask to use the property. Good luck to you!