Backyard weddings are becoming increasingly more popular amongst couples, especially those who want to have an exceptionally intimate day. Kendall and Bailey decided to get married in the backyard of their first home that they recently purchased. When I first talked to them they joked about how it was the most expensive venue they could get married at! I immediately fell in love with them and their backyard wedding ideas.
Getting Ready For Their Backyard Wedding
When I arrived, the hair and makeup team – Bridal 4 The Win was working their magic and getting Bailey, her mom, future mother-in-law, and sisters ready for the evening! They did amazing, and everyone looked absolutely stunning. Getting hair and makeup done is such a fun way to spend time with your closest loved ones on your wedding day, even in such a low-key and intimate setting!
While getting ready, I took photos of them, their home, their family mingling, and all the pretty little details!
The Dress and Suit
They included every detail in their day. One thing I loved is that, because they could get married in their backyard, they put a ton of thought into all the details! Bailey’s dress and Kendall’s suit were so timeless and classic. From the hangers they hung on to the cufflinks, I was swooning. I took most of the detail photos in their master bedroom. There, I found a gorgeous rocking chair that made the perfect spot to hold all the details. Later on, Bailey told me that was the same chair Kendall’s mom rocked him in as a baby. I thought it was so sentimental and precious that their wedding attire hung on the same chair that held so many memories.
Gifts For The Parents
Before the ceremony, Bailey had her parents and sisters gather together so she could give them personalized gifts! It was such a tender and thoughtful moments, each family member felt so loved and special. Bailey is such a gem and has a huge heart made of gold. One of my favorite things was seeing the personalized cufflinks, this is such a great wedding gift for the men in your life!
Bride Getting Ready
One of my favorite parts of a wedding day is when the bride is ready to get dressed! Finally, stepping into your dream wedding dress, having your hair and makeup done, and all the emotions setting in, there’s nothing like it! Bailey’s wedding dress was stunning and fit her like a glove. She got dressed in her and Kendall’s bedroom, helped by her mom and sister. Once she was in her dress, she wanted to do a first look with her dad and stepdad. It was such a precious moment!
Reading Personal Letters
Some couples opt to do a first look, while some want to wait for the ceremony. However, you can get the best of both worlds when doing a first touch! Kendall and Bailey opted to do a first touch and read personal letters to one another. In high school, they would write letters back and forth to one another, so it was only fitting they incorporated that into their wedding day.
When I was looking for a spot for them to exchange letters, I found the perfect place. In front of their first home under their house numbers, it was such a full circle moment for them. The emotions were at an all-time high, and I definitely felt honored to capture this special and unforgettable moment.
Backyard Wedding Ceremony
The couple exchanged vows under the clear Arizona sky, surrounded by the result of hard work put into creating their perfect space. The intimacy of the setting provided a personal touch that resonated in every photograph, creating a visual narrative that was both romantic and genuine.
Bailey and Kendall’s wedding ceremony was the definition of “full of love” and an intimate vibe. Witnessing their union among their closest family members is something I cherish as a wedding photographer. Their personal vows were so precious, and left every family member emotional. Because they were in their backyard, it was so easy for their fur baby to be present! They had their best friend from high school fly from New York to be their officiant! Everyone in attendance played a special role in their lives and love story.
The Bride and Groom Photos
After the ceremony, we set aside time for bride and groom photos. We had the most incredible sunset to play with! Right by their home was a big field that we used, and after shooting there, we headed down to the end of their street to take more photos with the desert scenery. I love that we took their bride and groom photos in their neighborhood; there’s something so sentimental about it!
Backyard Wedding Reception
In a small backyard wedding, the family takes center stage. The close relationships between family members were evident in every candid moment, from the laughter shared during toasts to the tears shed during heartfelt speeches. As a photographer, capturing these authentic emotions became a priority, resulting in a collection of images that told the story of love, family, and connection.
Bailey and Kendall’s reception was one of my favorite wedding receptions of all time!
The evening had a laid-back and casual atmosphere, brimming with laughter and stories. The best part was that they served Canes Chicken for dinner! It can’t get better than that, am I right?! If you’re looking for backyard wedding ideas, serving your favorite meal or takeout food is a fun option!
Backyard Wedding Ideas
Backyard weddings are growing in popularity for good reason. There are opportunities you get with a wedding taking place in a backyard that you don’t get with a venue. Your party can go later, you can have whatever vendors you want, and you get to get a little more creative in some aspects. Here are some backyard wedding ideas I love:
- Use inside furniture as outdoor furniture or displays. For example, if you have a bookshelf or console table, you can use that for serving drinks, signing a guestbook, etc.
- Have an ice cream sundae bar for dessert!
- Set up backyard games, such as Giant Jenga, Connect 4, or a table for playing cards.
- Include your pets!
- Rent a dance floor and hang up string lights!
If you’re seeking a wedding photographer for your special day, I would be honored to chat with you! You can reach out here for a quote!
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