Some weddings just have that feeling—the kind where love pours out of every detail, and the people around you aren’t just guests, they’re part of the story. That was Ashley and David’s backyard wedding, a celebration so full of heart and energy, it still lingers in our minds.
This was a day that wasn’t just planned—it was built, crafted, and brought to life by the couple’s closest friends and family. And it was unforgettable.
DIY Doesn’t Mean Less—It Means Personal
Ashley and David are the kind of people you instantly love being around. They lead with their hearts, value their people deeply, and you can feel that energy in every corner of their wedding day.
So it made perfect sense that most of their wedding was pulled together by their community—especially their incredible neighbor, Tracy. Tracy, if you’re reading this: if you ever want to become a wedding planner, you’ve got our full support. The attention to detail at this wedding was next level.
From handcrafted décor to personalized signage and a layout that made everything feel effortless, every piece of the day was designed with intention. And while many people associate DIY weddings with saving money, the real magic is in how it allows couples to create something completely their own.
A Backyard Transformed Into a Celebration Space
In the weeks leading up to the wedding, Ashley and David went all in—building a porch, installing a bar, and even adding a wood-fired pizza oven to their yard. Not only did it make for an incredible reception setup, but it’s something they’ll continue to enjoy for years to come.
Their backyard felt less like a venue and more like a home opened wide—with warmth, laughter, and great food filling the air from start to finish.
Getting Ready, First Looks & Forgotten Bouquets
The day started with David and his best man (a lifelong friend from the military) smoking cigars and playing music—the kind of relaxed, brotherly vibe you can’t stage. Meanwhile, Ashley got ready inside, reading a handwritten letter from David that had everyone in the room teary-eyed.
Their first look on the porch was emotional. You could feel the nerves drop away as soon as they saw each other—one of those moments that reminds you why first looks can be so meaningful. It gave them time to breathe, be together, and reconnect before the ceremony began.
And when Ashley walked up the aisle… she did so without her bouquet. She laughed, smiled, and said all that mattered was getting to David. It was real. It was honest. And it was so her.
A Ceremony That Hit Home
Their vows were raw and beautiful. Ashley wiped tears from her eyes as David gently helped her with her makeup mid-ceremony. And in a surprise twist, Ashley had secretly swapped David’s ring with a custom version he didn’t see coming.
These moments—the unplanned, the personal, the perfectly imperfect—are what make backyard weddings unforgettable.
Sunset on the Mississippi
As golden hour set in, we stole the couple away for some portraits by the mighty Mississippi River. The light was soft and cinematic—the kind of glow that makes photographers giddy.
But beyond the light, it was a chance for Ashley and David to slow down. Even in intimate weddings, taking time for just the two of you matters. It gives space to connect, breathe, and reflect before diving back into the celebration.
The Best House Party Ever (With Fireworks)
Once the reception kicked off, it was all-out fun. It felt like the best house party you’ve ever been to—only with better lighting, a dance floor, a wood-fired pizza bar, and fireworks. Friends toasted. Kids ran barefoot. And at the end of the night, Ashley and David did what no one saw coming: they jumped in the pool, fully dressed.
It was the perfect ending to a day built on love, laughter, and letting go.
Final Thoughts
Ashley and David’s wedding was a reminder that love doesn’t need a ballroom—it just needs intention, community, and a couple willing to embrace the moment. Every detail of their backyard wedding reflected who they are: thoughtful, full of joy, and deeply loved by those around them.
To Ashley and David: thank you for inviting us into your celebration. You’ve created something that will be remembered for a lifetime—not just because it was beautiful, but because it was yours.
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