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NEW YORK + DESTINATION 
est. 2008

Backyard Wedding | Rachael + Steve

Rachael’s childhood home was a perfect setting for the ceremony of this backyard Buffalo wedding.

Black and White film photograph of bride and groom embracing after backyard wedding in Buffalo | photographed by Mary Dougherty

This backyard wedding took place in Buffalo, New York a few years ago. Now I am posting this on Rachael + Steve’s anniversary – so wish them well and enjoy looking back!! I hope you find a reason to re-live the memories that are most important to you.

Let’s pick up the story where we left off, which was with the engagement photos I shot for Rachael + Steve. When it came time to plan their wedding, a slightly smaller (75 guests) and personal event was in store. This made the backyard of Rachael’s parent’s home a perfect setting for the ceremony. Afterwards everyone went downtown where we stopped for pictures and celebrate with a reception at Pearl Street Brewery.

Wedding Party outside the Buffalo Historical Museum in New York | photography by Mary Dougherty
Maroon and green boutonnière with wedding bands from a backyard wedding photographed by Mary Dougherty
Bride and Groom stand backlit in park with trees behind them and light streaming through. Summer backyard wedding photographed by Mary Dougherty
Candid photo of bride and groom walking down road after wedding | Mary Dougherty
Candid photo of bride and groom walking down road after wedding | Mary Dougherty
Candid photo of bride and groom walking down road after wedding | Mary Dougherty
Happy bride with bouquet stands with bridesmaid in maroon dresses and rose and calla lily bouquets | Mary Dougherty Photography

While this wedding took place before the pandemic (am I even writing those words? It’s so strange to say) now more than ever couples are hosting weddings at home. Rachael’s mom transformed the backyard into a garden oasis. Guests gathered in the lush space sitting on long benches. Rachael walked down the aisle with her dad from the front door and to the backyard.

Backyard Wedding | Bride walks out front door of home with flower girls holding veil | photograph by Mary Dougherty

Steve waited under the pergola and everyone teared up during their beautiful ceremony. The rings were passed around so everyone could add their touch and best wishes for the couple. Guests enjoyed champagne and appetizers in the backyard when the ceremony ended. It was a beautiful backyard wedding!

A classic Cape Cod wedding never goes out of style, especially at the Kittansett Club.

A Chautauqua wedding is stunning no matter the size. Karen and Walker pivoted to host the most amazing micro wedding at this historic American retreat.

Looking for a Catskills wedding venue? Browse Jaclyn and Scott’s photos to see what makes a Full Moon Resort wedding so special.