After every wedding I photograph, I can’t help but to feel in awe of just how lucky I am to document such wholesome, beautiful love stories. Ryann and Brad’s Tacoma, Washington intimate backyard wedding was no exception! Between the vintage 70s vibes, to the heartfelt vows, and a banger of a party, it was honor to witness. Celebrating the Wellingtons alongside their closest people was the perfect way to wrap up a a PNW summer.
Intimate Backyard Wedding | Tacoma Wedding Photographer
Ryann and Brad’s intimate backyard wedding began at Ryann’s mom’s house. While Ryann and her closest girlfriends got ready upstairs, Brad and his guys sipped on whiskey and cold Rainiers downstairs. Witnessing couples getting ready with their people is always one of my favorite parts of a wedding day. While Ryann and her ladies got glam, necktie lessons were abound downstairs as the everyone made their finishing touches for the wedding day.
Despite the bright natural light flooding into the bridal space, the rain outside felt relentless. Thankfully, as soon as it was time for Ryann and Brad’s first look, it let up. Ryann strolled down the aisle, a clear umbrella in hand, to meet her honey. As soon as Brad turned around, he had the biggest smile on his face. Being in this couple’s presence felt like a warm hug; you can just tell they are best friends, and love each other (and their people) so fiercely. They couldn’t take their eyes off each other as we took some time strolling around the backyard for bridal portraits.
Before Ryann and Brad’s intimate backyard wedding ceremony began, we knocked out formal portraits to allow even more time to celebrate afterwards. The dark storm clouds hovering above the Puget Sound made for such a stunning, moody backdrop for family formals and bridal party portraits. While the groomsmen all matched in their tan suits, maroon ties, and brown loafers, the gals each wore a different jewel tone. I will forever be a mismatched bridesmaids dress stan. We breezed right through the portraits just in time for the wedding ceremony to begin.
Intimate Wedding Inspiration | Washington Weddings and Elopements
When couples are in the early stages of wedding planning and are posed with the question of if they will be having a first look or not, they often worry that having a first look will take away from the emotional moment seeing their partner walk down the aisle. If you’ve ever found yourself conflicted in this matter, please refer to the sweet photos of Brad choking up as Ryann walked down the aisle. Once Ryann made her way to the alter, a friend officiated their ceremony and they exchanged heartfelt personal vows. A fun little detail from their ceremony was that Brad’s dad had fashioned beer glass holders to the arch. The glasses were actually from their engagement party, so it was really special that they had such a prominent spot at the alter while Ryann and Brad said “I do!”.
Applause rang out across the Puget Sound as Ryann and Brad were pronounced husband and wife, sharing their first kiss beneath towering pines and overcast skies. The newlyweds made their way inside the house quick to sign their marriage license while the backyard was transformed into the reception space. Guests enjoyed cocktail hour, snagging drinks from the handmade bar top, and signing the vinyl record (in lieu of a guest book). Banquet tables lined with burnt orange table runners and lush blooms sat upon the lawn as guests mingled. I was able to steal the couple away for a few dreamy sunset bridal portraits overlooking the water.
Intimate Backyard Wedding Reception
As the sun continued to set, a slight chill filled the air as speeches were given beneath glowing string lights. After speeches and formal dances, The Red Books kept the party going for the rest of the night. Many Rainiers and cigars were had as guests celebrated Ryann and Brad’s Tacoma, Washington intimate backyard wedding. It was such a fun way to wrap up a summer full of weddings. And I wouldn’t have had it any other way!
Searching for more Washington wedding and elopement inspiration? Check out the blog! And be sure to follow along over on the ‘Gram (@samwilderphotography) for sneak peeks, BTS, and little glimpses into my life as a Seattle wedding and elopement photographer! I’m so dang glad you’re here.
Tacoma Wedding Vendor Team:
Photography – Sam Wilder Photography
Live Band – The Red Books
Catering – Cafe Rio
Dress – Brides for a Cause
Veil – Petite Mariee Boutique
Suit – The Wedding Bell
