Oregon Backyard Wedding | Sarah Jane + Armand
Intimate Oregon Backyard Wedding in the Coastal Forests
As a photographer, I strive to capture the essence and beauty of special moments in people's lives. One of the most unique and heartwarming experiences I had was photographing this wedding that took place in Oregon in the bride’s parents backyard. This particular wedding held a special significance as Armand, the groom, had family ties to Ecuador.
Armand's family owned a wonderful rose farm near Quito, Ecuador. To honor their heritage and incorporate that special touch into the wedding decorations, beautiful roses were shipped all the way to Oregon to be incorporated into their wedding decor.
Being a part of this wedding allowed me to witness the true magic of community-centered photography. The whole event seemed like a gathering of close friends and family, rather than a formal affair. This intimate atmosphere not only created the perfect backdrop for my editorial-style photographs but also enabled me to capture the genuine emotions and connections between the couple and their loved ones.
The concept of editorial photography perfectly aligns with my approach to capturing weddings. It focuses on storytelling and evoking emotions through images. By treating each wedding as a unique narrative, I aim to create a visual representation of the couple's love story, their cultural backgrounds, and the people who surround them on their special day.
Community-centered photography elevates the wedding experience, highlighting the bonds and connections between individuals. It goes beyond just documenting the events; it captures the spirit of the celebration and the love shared between everyone involved.
As a photographer, I find great joy in being a part of such meaningful occasions. By immersing myself in the couple's world and understanding their values and traditions, I can ensure that their wedding photos reflect the essence of their love story. The addition of the roses from Armand's family farm only enhanced the authenticity and power of the photographs, bringing forth a sense of place and family heritage.
I feel honored to have been a part of this unique event and to have documented the love and connections shared between everyone present.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Hi, I’m Catalina Jean - a destination wedding photographer servicing Oregon, California, Mexico and beyond. Nature, minimalism, dark shadows, real emotion all make my heart skip a beat.
Getting hitched? Check out my work and reach out to learn more.
Are you considering a backyard wedding in Oregon? Here is my tips and advice when planning…
Oregon's natural beauty provides a stunning backdrop for backyard weddings. Whether it’s the lush greenery of the Willamette Valley or the scenic views of the Cascades, Oregon offers a variety of landscapes to enhance your wedding day.
How to Plan Your Oregon Backyard Wedding
Assessing Your Space: Evaluate your backyard’s capacity to accommodate guests, catering, and entertainment. Ensure there’s enough space for seating, a dance area, and other essential wedding elements.
How to Prepare for Weather for an Oregon Backyard Wedding
Oregon weather can be unpredictable. Consider tent rentals for rain protection during the fall - springs months and have a plan for temperature control, be it heaters for cooler evenings or shaded areas for warmer days. The summers in Oregon can get fairly warm with sunsets often not until 9PM.
Décor and Styling for Backyard Weddings
Enhance your backyard with décor that complements the natural surroundings. Use local flowers, sustainable materials, and lighting to create a cozy ambiance. Hanging cafe lights above the reception or dance floor create the most dreamy lighting for photographs, as well as warm lighting for your guests.
Our Favorite Local Catering Choices for Intimate Oregon Weddings
Embrace Oregon’s rich culinary scene. Opt for local caterers who specialize in farm-to-table cuisine to add a unique Oregonian flavor to your wedding. Some of my personal favorite Oregon caterers are White Pepper, Art De Cuisine, and Pearl Catering.
What are the Permits and Regulations for Oregon Backyard Weddings?
Check local regulations regarding noise ordinances, parking, and any necessary permits for large gatherings. These can be specific to the neighborhood. Often amplified noise can go no later than 10PM. There are also Airbnbs that allow smaller events, the hosts may be able to assist you with the additional permits and regulations for the area.
