When Kelsey and Andres first reached out, they told me their dress code was “outdress the bride” and I immediately knew we were a good fit and these were my kind of people. Textures, sparkles, color, patterns, you name it! Guests absolutely delivered on the dress code. Kelsey & Andres’ intimate backyard Atlanta wedding was such a dream of an event.   

Intimate Backyard Ceremony 

Kelsey and Andres held their ceremony right in the backyard of the home they’ve been lovingly renovating together. It’s a space that already held so much meaning, and transforming it into their ceremony site made it even more special. Their dogs were there, along with their family and close friends. Everyone was so close, both relationally and physically, as they gathered tightly together for the ceremony and the dinner following.

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They created and signed their own wedding contract, which guests also added their signatures to. After the ceremony, everyone took part in a communal shot using handmade ceramic cups that Kelsey’s mom created as favors. Each person got to keep their little shot glass-sized cup as a keepsake, which I loved! It was such a thoughtful way to mark the moment and bring everyone together.

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Celebration Dinner in Decatur

Afterwards everyone headed to Commune Listening Bar, a cozy restaurant in Decatur, for mingling, drinks, toasts, and a private intimate dinner.  A perfect fit for this couple who love hosting and giving their people great experiences! Kelsey and Andres are big foodies, and the dining experience was a huge part of what they wanted their day to feel like. The kitchen was buzzing with energy as the chefs prepared food, and one of their requests for me was to photograph the food prep in action, which was such a fun creative challenge between the changing light, movement, and color.

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They brought their wedding cake to the restaurant, which Kelsey’s aunt made. Their first cake didn’t work out so they did three medium-sized ones instead. Which was great because no one knew it wasn’t right. Also, I just loved how they went with the flow and adapted so easily. It’s the perfect example of how being flexible and open on your wedding day makes everything more enjoyable. Because when you are planning or having your wedding, things will inevitably go wrong.   

Every part of this day reflected Kelsey and Andres’ personalities. They love hosting and wanted their guests to be included and feel cared far, and they absolutely nailed it. 

It was such a wonderful, joy-filled day that I was honored to be a part of! Congratulations, Kelsey and Andre!

If you’re planning a backyard wedding in Atlanta or an intimate elopement that feels like you, I’d love to help you capture it in a way that feels just as true to your story.

Intimate Backyard Atlanta Wedding Vendors:

Getting Ready, Ceremony, & Reception Venues: Commune Listening Bar

Florist: Lauren Lopez of Adelita Florals 

Hair Stylist & Make-Up: Courtney Music

Intimate Backyard Atlanta Wedding pin