Some wedding stories start in a ballroom. Others begin in the mountains with pizza, snow, and the kind of laughter that only comes from people who feel like home to each other. Courtney and James’ love story spanned states, seasons, and countless small moments that led to a beautiful backyard wedding in Trempealeau, Wisconsin—a celebration full of meaning, intention, and joy.
An Engagement Session in Colorado
You don’t have to live in the mountains to take your love story there. When Courtney and James suggested doing their engagement session in Colorado, I knew it would be something special.
We spent a few days in the Rockies—laughing, adventuring, and making memories with camera in hand. We chased golden light across open roads, hiked through snowy woods, and stopped at every scenic turn we could find. And through it all, I saw exactly what makes these two so incredible: their empathy, their joy, and their complete and total love for each other and the people around them.
There was even a moment when we witnessed a serious car accident nearby. While others kept driving, Courtney and James didn’t hesitate to pull over and help. That’s just who they are. Present. Grounded. Compassionate.
And also—very, very fun. Our time together included long talks, good food, and yes, pizza. Because the best engagement trips always end with a slice.
A Backyard Wedding in Trempealeau, WI
When it came time to plan their wedding, Courtney and James chose something intentional, personal, and close to home: a backyard celebration at her father’s house in Trempealeau, Wisconsin.
After a few unpredictable years for weddings, many couples are returning to what matters most—family, comfort, and celebrating in places filled with meaning. A backyard wedding offers all of that and more.
For Courtney and James, this backyard wasn’t just a location. It was a place tied to childhood memories, shared meals, long talks on the porch, and now—marriage.
Getting Ready, First Looks & Backyard Magic
The morning kicked off with mimosas, inside jokes, and a relaxed kind of energy that set the tone for the day. Courtney and James chose to get ready in the same house (without seeing each other), which created a shared excitement that you could feel in the air.
Courtney’s first look with her dad on the back porch was tender and emotional—one of those moments you never forget. And when she walked down the aisle beneath the string lights, her smile said everything.
The ceremony was short, heartfelt, and full of love. Happy tears. Laughter. The quiet kind of connection that happens when everyone present truly knows the couple standing in front of them.
Games, Dancing, and One Epic Backyard Party
After the ceremony, the backyard transformed into a full-on Wisconsin celebration. Bags, beers, and kids doing cartwheels on the lawn. Champagne corks flying, sparklers lighting up the sky, and an impromptu dance floor that stretched across the grass.
One of the best things about a backyard wedding? No rules. (Well—except the noise ordinance. And yes, they had that covered.)
Courtney and James created a space where everyone felt at ease—where stories were shared, hugs lasted a little longer, and dancing happened under the stars. It was the kind of night where the joy was tangible and every guest walked away knowing they’d just witnessed something real.
Why Backyard Weddings Hit Different
There’s a reason more couples are choosing at-home weddings:
You’re surrounded by familiarity and comfort
Every corner holds a memory
You can customize the day to be 100% you
The space feels safe, warm, and full of love
For Courtney and James, that meant games on the lawn, dancing under string lights, and a community of people who helped pull it all together. It wasn’t fancy—but it was absolutely perfect.
Final Thoughts
Courtney and James are the kind of people who make you feel lucky just to know them. They lead with kindness, think of others first, and never miss a chance to laugh—even when the rain starts falling. Their wedding was a mirror of who they are: genuine, joyful, rooted in community and full of heart.
Thank you both for letting me be part of it.
📍 Engagement Session: Rocky Mountains, Colorado
📍 Wedding Day: Trempealeau, WI – Backyard Wedding
📸 Photo & Video: Boxcar Photography
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