I always love the intimacy of a pretty backyard wedding. To me, there is nothing more personal when it comes to a wedding than holding it in your home. When Erika & Ben first met with me about photographing their wedding, they knew they definitely wanted their big day to take place in their own backyard. The couple was currently on the hunt for a house to call their own, and they found the perfect place.

Erika & Ben have been together since high school, and they dated throughout. The best part of their wedding day for them was being surrounded by the people (and pets!) that are most important in their lives. The two of them brought their adorable dog to their First Look at Draper Historic Park as well as their bridal party and closest family members. There was an extra level of excitement and fun in having everyone present to witness Ben seeing his bride for the first time before the ceremony.

A lovely ceremony and reception was held in Erika & Ben’s own backyard. They had a beautiful handfasting ceremony with the cutest flower girl and ring bearer walking down the aisle. The flower girl made a noble effort to clean up the flower petals she had dropped while singing a cleanup song for everyone. The Bruges Food Truck brought their traditional belgian waffles and frites that were a huge hit! Everyone enjoyed a lovely evening of eating and celebrating together.

The weather started to turn cloudy and gloomy as the evening progressed. Luckily, the rain held off just long enough for the couple to share a sweet first dance as husband and wife. Everyone watching had tears in their eyes. Right as the dance finished, the clouds opened up and it started pouring so everyone escaped inside.

Erika & Ben, thank you for the honor of capturing your wedding day! I really enjoyed my time with the two of you as well as your kind, generous friends and family members.