Backyard weddings are some of my favorite weddings to capture – the atmosphere, the familiarity of the backyard you grew up spending time in – it’s so intimate and cozy. It’s the kind of day that feels less like an event and more like a fathering of people who truly know you.
When Ellen and Leland first reached out and described their vision for the wedding, I immediately knew their day would be something truly intentional and I couldn’t wait to capture it.
The first look
The morning began with a quiet first look under the trees at Fern Hollow Nature Center, setting the tone for the ceremony that would soon follow. Just minutes outside the city of Pittsburgh, Fern Hollow Nature Center provided a peaceful, nature-filled backdrop surrounded by tall trees, early fall foliage, and soft September light. It was the perfect setting for an intimate ceremony – simple, emotional, and deeply connected to the natural beauty around them.
The ceremony
Bridal portaits
Rather than focusing on heavily posed bridal portraits, Ellen and Leland wanted images that captured them fully in the moment, so even during ‘posed’ time, I let them stay in their own element and documented the quiet, in-between moments that unfolded naturally.
Following some family photos and bridal portraits, we headed to their reception at a childhood friend’s home overlooking the Ohio River. Hosting the reception in a backyard added an extra layer of nostalgia and warmth to the day. My favorite aspect of the day was all of the stunning details – the little sail boats in the pool, the string lights that led you to the dance floor, and the beautiful table decor. The guest fashion was also SO ON POINT that I couldn’t help photograph everyone in their attire.
The party
With string lights, heartfelt toasts, and the river stretching out in the distance, the evening felt relaxed and deeply personal. This kind of backyard wedding reception in Pittsburgh proves that you don’t need a traditional venue to create something meaningful and beautiful.
One of the things I love most about photographing an intimate backyard wedding is how present everyone feels. There’s time to breathe, to connect, and to truly enjoy the day without rushing from moment to moment. This wedding was a perfect reminder that some of the most impactful celebrations happen in familiar places, surrounded by people who have known you for years, in spaces that already feel like home.
If you’re planning an intimate backyard wedding in Pittsburgh and want photography that reflects who you truly are, I’d love to connect!
To the vendors that made it possible –
- Planner – Wynn Events PGH
- Ceremony location – Fern Hollow Nature Center (due to renovations, private events are paused until Sept 2026)
- DJ – DJ Costa
- Rentals – Eventioneers / Windswept
- Catering – Big Burrito
- Transportation – Elite
- Cake – Ultimate Pastry
- Floral – Global Rose
