Why some of the most fun weddings happen right at home
There’s something special about backyard weddings. No sweeping venue. No long timeline of driving from one place to the next. Just the people you love, gathered in a space that already means something to you.
I’ve photographed weddings in the mountains, on the coast, in barns and gardens, but there’s a kind of comfort and magic that only happens when a couple chooses to get married in their own backyard (or a parent’s, or a close friend’s). It strips away the extra and leaves room for what really matters.
It’s the sound of laughter echoing off the porch. The freedom of walking barefoot through the grass. The way everyone naturally mingles because it feels like a family cookout with a wedding tucked in. And let’s be honest, when your ceremony and reception are steps away from each other, the vibe is instantly more relaxed. People stay longer. They dance more. There’s less pressure to “perform” and more space to be in the moment.
One of the things I love most about backyard weddings is how personal they feel. Every detail, whether planned or imperfect, is yours. Maybe the tables are handmade. Maybe your uncle is manning the grill. Maybe the dogs are wandering through the reception (and maybe they even show up in a few photos). Those little things become part of the story. And those stories are what last.
Simplicity doesn’t mean less beautiful. In fact, sometimes it makes room for more. More real moments. More connection. More memories that feel like you.
If you’re dreaming of a day that’s easygoing, meaningful, and full of heart, don’t sleep on the backyard wedding. It might just be exactly what you’re looking for.
