Northern California Backyard Wedding | O + V

Intimate Northern California Backyard Wedding with Coastal Views

As a documentary photographer, my goal is to tell the story of a couple’s wedding day with minimal interference. Recently I had the privilege to document a wedding held in a Northern California backyard that belonged to the groom’s uncle. The driftwood sky door was custom built by the same uncle to amplify the unreal coastal views during the ceremony. From the details that echoed the couple’s shared history sailing the world together to the warmth of the gathering, everything about the day felt authentic and deeply personal.

Documentary wedding photography is community-centered photography. This approach doesn’t just spotlight the couple – it honors the way people support and celebrate one another, highlighting the bonds between friends and family. Your memory of the day won’t be shaped by the presence of a camera or preconceived notions of how the day should play out.

While the guests fully delivered coastal cocktail chic, this wedding felt more like a reunion of close friends and family than a formal affair. Proof that elevated but unfussy is my favorite aesthetic choice.

For me, documentary wedding photography emphasizes emotional storytelling. Rather than orchestrate moments I seek to be present for them. This also ensures that the couple is fully rather than performing a pre-written script. That said, whenever necessary, I will always tell you what to do with your hands.

Venue: Private // Event Designer: Above & Beyond Creations // Florist: Buttermilk Floral // Bakery: Ramone’s // Suit: Hugo Boss // Dress: Jenny Yoo

Are you planning a backyard wedding in Northern California? Here are my tips…

Northern California’s landscapes (e.g., coastal cliffs, towering redwoods or rolling vineyards) are easily incorporated into your wedding design to create a breathtaking atmosphere. Strategize the ceremony and reception placement for optimal views, lighting, and guest comfort. Bringing in natural elements like florals, local greenery, or wooden accents (hello driftwood sky door) will enhance the location without detracting from the existing beauty.

How to Plan Your California Backyard Wedding

Assess the accommodations available for a wedding. Consider a ceremony location with enough room for seated guests. Ensure there is space for both a cocktail and a dining area. Don’t forget a dance floor!

Hire A Northern California Wedding planner

A planner based in Humboldt County will be familiar with the unique qualities of our area including moody weather, long distances between amenities and seasonal goings ons. Since most couples planning destination weddings in Northern California are doing so from afar, I’m happy to provide recommendations.

How to Prepare for Weather For a NOrthern California Backyard Wedding

Please, please, please consider a tent rental. While the months of May through most of October tend to be fairly dry in Humboldt County, rain can make an appearance at any time of the year. Plan also for cool evening temperatures by utilizing space heaters and throw blankets.

What Permits are required for a Northern california backyard wedding?

You will want to consider noise and parking ordinances. Many neighborhoods limit noise above a conversational decibel level after 9 with some coastal neighborhoods putting the cut off point at 8. Many couples opt to include an off site after party with guest transport as the end point to the festivities.

My Favorite local caterers for an Intimate Humboldt Wedding

Northern California offers incredible local, sustainable, farm to table catering options. Some of my personal favorite Humboldt caterers are Casandra Kelly Catering, Chef Natalia Boyce, Uniquely Yours and Brett Shuler Fine Catering.