top of page
  • Facebook
  • Pinterest
  • Instagram

Piper Reese

Photography

An Intimate Backyard Wedding: A Culinary Love Story

Some weddings are all about the glitz and glam, but Sarah and Julian’s big day was a love letter to everything that makes them them. Their intimate backyard wedding, held at Sarah’s grandmother’s home, was a perfect mix of cozy, creative, and oh-so-intentional. If you’re dreaming of a micro wedding that’s packed with personal touches, keep reading because this one’s for you.

A newlywed couple standing in front of their grandmother's home with a bouquet in one hand and the bride looking towards the camera while her husband kisses her on her temple.

A Culinary Love Story, Six Years in the Making

Sarah and Julian’s story began in culinary school six years ago, where their shared love for food (and probably late-night kitchen experiments) brought them together. Fast forward to a magical NYC trip they’d been planning for ages, and Julian got down on one knee at the top of the Empire State Building. It’s safe to say these two know how to make every moment memorable.

Their wedding day was no exception. With just 50 of their closest family and friends gathered, the atmosphere was relaxed, intimate, and full of love.


Backyard Wedding Goals: Rustic Vibes and Personal Touches

Sarah’s grandmother’s backyard was the perfect venue for their celebration. The rustic setting, surrounded by fiery red and orange leaves and a cozy forestry backdrop, was straight out of a fall wedding dream. A big white tent with a black and white checkered dance floor served as the reception space, but it was the thoughtful details that truly stole the show.

Let’s talk about those details, shall we?

  • Sarah, being the talented baker she is, made her wedding cake and assembled it herself while getting ready. (Who does that?!)

  • The tables were decorated with LEGO floral centerpieces, a nod to their favorite hobby of building LEGOs together.

  • Instead of a traditional ring box, their wedding rings were carried down the aisle in a tiny Dutch oven—a cheeky nod to their culinary roots that had everyone grinning.

Every element felt intentional and deeply personal, proving that small weddings can be just as impactful (if not more!) than larger celebrations.


Midday Ceremony? No Problem

With their ceremony starting at noon, when the sun is at its brightest and most direct, I had to get creative with lighting. Working with the natural shade from the backyard’s forestry for wedding party photos, direct sunlight for the ceremony and using diffused light to capture soft, flattering moments, we made it work—and honestly, the results were stunning.

From Sarah’s bridal portraits to the candid moments during the ceremony, every photo felt warm, natural, and true to the day’s vibe.


Why Micro Weddings Are the Move

Sarah and Julian’s wedding is proof that micro weddings and intimate celebrations are where it’s at. When you focus on the people and details that matter most, the day feels less like a production and more like a heartfelt gathering. Plus, with fewer people, you can invest in those quirky, personal touches that make your wedding feel authentically you.

If you’re planning a backyard wedding or dreaming of a small, intentional celebration, take some inspiration from Sarah and Julian. And if you’re looking for a photographer who loves capturing all the little moments and big feelings, let’s chat—I’d love to tell your story.

Scroll down to see some highlights from Sarah & Julian’s day!





Comments


bottom of page