New Jersey Backyard Micro Wedding: Connor + Katie

Connor and Katie planned on a big wedding on September 12, 2020, but when COVID hit, they had a decision to make. They decided to postpone their big wedding and gather with family and a few friends in Katie’s parents’ backyard for a micro wedding. With their ceremony starting an hour before sunset, we experienced the most perfect lighting paired with the vibrant trees, making a stunning backdrop. They livestreamed their ceremony on zoom so all their guests could witness their vows. After portraits with friends and family, speeches were made and the cake was cut. One thing that will forever stick with me from this wedding is the speech of Connor’s best man (his father). Because it was a small wedding, everyone gathered around in a circle to listen to his speech and I could easily see everyone’s reactions to this heartfelt speech. Tears. Smiles. It was truly amazing to witness. I’m so excited we will get to do this again in September 2021!

Congrats!

Backyard Wedding in New Jersey: Linda + Kyle

Like so many couples this summer, Kyle and Linda had made their plans long in advance before Covid was ever known to be married on June 13th. Like so many others, they too would have to reschedule their celebration with friends and family, changing their date three times with the uncertainties that we are all experiencing. They decided they absolutely wanted to be married on their original date, surrounded by only 10 other people to comply with social distancing.

I started at their home, where they had a first look in their backyard, while their pup, Linus ran around them. They exchanged gifts- Linda worked together with her new Mother-in-law to gift Kyle his late father’s watch. A handful of guests met them at The Palace in Blackwood for their outdoor ceremony before heading back to Kyle and Linda’s for BBQ under the string lights in their backyard.

I love grand weddings, they are mostly what I photograph, but there is something so special and sweet about an intimate wedding. There is no audience or crowd, every person there is a major contribution to the event, and you feel all of the emotions because you are so close to them. I feel so honored to be invited to document Kyle and Linda’s special day and I’m so excited because they are planning on a large celebration with friends and family next summer!

Hair/Makeup: Christine Swope

Gown: BHLDN

Ceremony Space: The Palace, Blackwood, New Jersey