If you have a back yard consider using it for a wedding or party :-)
If you are not accustomed to throwing lots of parties then hire an experienced planner. An experienced planner who understands your ideas can help guide you:
An experienced planner can help design your event and suggest where things should go.

For this event the planner positioned the “wedding trellis” established the focal point that helped determine “where everything else should go.”
Additionally your planner understands all of the parts needed for a successful event.
For example: At this event the planner, familiar with this location, had the caterer setup the kitchen in the spacious garage.

Now even though this is not a large event, on the day of someone should coordinate the event. Sometimes this is also done by the planner.
No mater how informal, someone should conduct the festivities.
Perhaps a responsible family member who speaks well could be assigned the responsibilities of the Master of Ceremonies.
The wedding coordinator works in the future setting up the next thing for the Master of Ceremonies to do. This is how they work together to ensure the smooth progression of the evening and an organized presentation.
Please see: The Working Relationship Between The Wedding Coordinator and The Master of Ceremonies
Invite people you like.
Recently it has been my observation that guests will be on their best behavior and mindful of creating a safe environment. They are so glad that you have given them the opportunity to be out of the house and visit with family and friends.
Music Too!
For an intimate event, if you are considering having live music, a soloist or small ensemble will be perfect.
See: Duos, Trios, Quartet, Soloists – Elegant Music Video Index

Dance Music?
If you would like to encourage dancing but are concerned about disturbing the neighbors, I recommend DJ Dance Floor Surround Sound. Dance music should be focused on the dance floor. Elegant Music DJ Dance Floor Surround Sound does just that and helps to prevent loud music bouncing all over the neighborhood.
See: Elegant Music DJ Dance Floor Surround Sound
Backyard Oasis
There are many more details and factors to consider when planning any event. It may be more convenient to find a restaurant or an outdoor venue, pitch a tent, have the party and at the end of the night just leave. However utilizing the resource of your back yard might provide a certain level of safety and freedom that might not otherwise be available in a public place.
Also see: Backyard Wedding Checklist. You can do this!
And please see: Great Gatsby Backyard Party
Planning a wedding or party is a very creative activity and is certainly a lot of fun. For me, helping plan music for an event is almost as much fun as performing for one :-)
I look forward to hearing your ideas.
Sincerely, Eric Zimmermann Elegant Music 626-797-1795
Host of Wedding & Event Podcast
© Elegant Music 3190 Crestford Drive, Altadena, CA. 91001