An intimate and non-traditional backyard wedding at Dani’s childhood home in Clarkston, MI.

Dani and Luke decided to marry their own way. And that’s the best way to do it! Rather than having the stress of meeting expectations, they could focus on what was the most important things to them. Family and friends. (And the family dog!)

Shunning tradition, the couple decided to get ready together upstairs in Dani’s old bedroom, helping each other out with shoes and a little beard grooming. Getting ready together in a space that feels at home and intimate with the person you love most is a great way to keep wedding day jitters at bay.

With their parents looking on, Dani and Luke sat at the dining room table to share vows, exchange rings and a kiss, and sign the contract. Important wedding traditions done in their own, non-traditional way. All of these things had every ounce of emotion a traditional wedding would have, but because it was just them it felt even more intimate and meaningful.

Friends and family arrived shortly after the ceremony, and soon enough the backyard was littered with little kids, cornhole and chess games, and pods of people catching up with old friends. Everyone felt at home.

Luke’s mom served as creative director and made the space even more homey and welcoming. Thrifted chairs, china, and goblets, along with a tea station using cups, teapots and spoons that made you wonder who drank from them years ago.

Guests shared dinner under the tent, and sweets and tea afterwards. Dani’s Grandma learned that the newlyweds don’t have to be the ones to cut the cake. Tall tales were shared around the bonfire. High school friends laughed until they cried. And somehow a lampshade found it’s new home on Dani’s head.

So happy to have been part of this wedding that let traditions and expectations go, and embraced love, family, and friends instead.

If an intimate backyard wedding sounds like your vibe, read our planning tips here.

We adore non-traditional couples who value personality and meaning over grand presentations. If that’s you, we’d love to chat about your big plans and what you find important.

Team:
Bob B’s Party Rentals
Knight’s Tent and Party Rental
Gary’s Catering