Woodland Glam Meets Southern Comfort | Erica & John’s Joyful, Intimate Backyard Wedding in North Georgia

Planning a backyard wedding doesn’t mean giving up style. In fact, it might be the most intentional, heartfelt way to tie the knot. For Erica and John, a spring celebration at their North Georgia home offered the best of both worlds: timeless beauty and deeply personal meaning. Their wedding day blended glam touches with the laid-back comfort of home, all set beneath a canopy of trees and surrounded by those who matter most.

Woodland Glam Meets Southern Comfort | Erica & John’s Joyful, Intimate Backyard Wedding in North Georgia

There’s something undeniably magical about a backyard wedding done right—especially when that backyard is nestled in the woods of North Georgia.

Before the vows and the cheers, there were quiet moments filled with meaning—welcoming signs, warm hugs, and front porch conversations. Erica and John’s backyard wedding began with intentional details and the kind of presence that only family can bring.

Erica and John’s intimate celebration was a perfect blend of woodland serenity, family-centered joy, and unapologetic glam. From soft ivory and blue florals with cascading greenery to golden accents and the couple’s effortless style (yes, that slit in Erica’s gown deserves its own spotlight!), every detail felt true to them.

Erica and John’s backyard wedding felt more like a family reunion—with hugs around every corner, spontaneous dance circles, and conversations that picked up like no time had passed. From the youngest guests to the oldest, everyone was part of the celebration, and the joy was absolutely contagious.

Keep scrolling for a look into this beautiful North Georgia day, including: ✔ heartfelt vows under the Georgia pines 🌲

✔ a perfectly unhinged cake smash that had everyone laughing 🍰

✔ and the most joyful barefoot dance party in the woods 🌿

A front porch made for sweet tea and witnessing wedding vows. Erica and John’s North Georgia home became the most meaningful wedding venue of all—complete with a ceremony setup that turned their front yard into a dream venue.

A Perfect Backyard Wedding in Georgia

Erica and John’s backyard wedding wasn’t just beautiful—it was alive. Every corner of their day pulsed with laughter, love, and the kind of fleeting moments that turn into forever memories. If you’ve ever wondered whether a wedding at home could be stunning, I'm thrilled to show you just how magical and heartfelt Erica and John's day turned out...

A ceremony beneath the pines, surrounded by loved ones and springtime stillness. Erica and John turned their own backyard into a sacred space—proving you don’t need a ballroom to have a breathtaking wedding.

Before the Ceremony…

But before the ceremony began, the story of Erica and John’s wedding day had already started unfolding in the most intentional, joy-filled ways.

This right here? This was the moment. Erica’s grandmother wrapped her up in a hug so full of love it nearly brought the house down. There’s something sacred about these quiet exchanges—no big audience, no performance. Just presence. And you could feel the history, strength, and tenderness between them in every frame.

Erica greeted guests in a custom fringe-bottom mini dress that set the tone for the party ahead—fun, stylish, and completely unbothered by tradition. Instead of hiding away before walking down the aisle, she and John prioritized being present. From clinking glasses to heartfelt hugs, they welcomed their people with open arms, making every guest feel like part of the story from the very beginning.

This one hit me right in the heart.  It wasn’t staged or posed—just John placing his hand over Erica’s, steady and sure. She’s laughing (that full-bodied, real kind of laugh), and you can feel it—this moment is exactly what she hoped for when she said yes to marrying him.  It’s been a long road for both of them. But love like this? Worth every step.

One of my favorite details? Erica’s custom-painted Golden Goose sneakers—hand-designed by the wildly talented @darboodlz, who also runs @goldendoodles_bydarby. Paired with her bridal glam, those sneakers were the perfect nod to Erica’s playful spirit and love for all things unique.

When custom details walk the walk. Erica’s wedding-day sneakers were hand-painted, bedazzled, and completely personalized with everything she loves—from florals and feathers to her pups and a mallard for John. Created by the incredibly talented @darboodlz, these luxe Golden Goose kicks were equal parts glam, sentimental, and ready to party.

And speaking of love—one of the most tender parts of the day was seeing Erica with her grandmothers. These two women have been best friends since childhood… and fun fact? Their grandchildren (not Erica and John) met years later, fell in love, and got married. Talk about a friendship that keeps on giving.

Capturing little layers like that—the generational ties, the full-circle stories—is one of my favorite parts of wedding photography. There was so much life in this day, and every frame had a story worth telling.

Erica’s wedding day glow? Courtesy of her best friend Sable, who not only did her hair and makeup but was right by her side every step of the way. And that adorable little photobomber? Sable’s daughter, who made a surprise cameo during this sweet moment with Erica’s grandmothers—lifelong best friends whose story somehow led to their grandkids finding love too. Full circle magic, y’all.

It’s the kind of story that makes you believe in timing, fate, and maybe even a little divine mischief.

And let’s not forget the setup that made everyone feel instantly at home: a wheelbarrow iced down with drinks, a whiskey barrel bar, and a self-serve margarita station that got the party started before the ceremony even began. Southern hospitality? Absolutely nailed it.

The vibe? Cold drinks, warm welcomes, and no waiting around. Erica and John stocked a wheelbarrow full of chilled beers, seltzers, and pink lemonade Smirnoff so guests could grab a drink the moment they arrived. DIY hospitality done right.

Just before the ceremony, Erica was joined by her mom and step-mom for a quiet, meaningful moment. As her mom fastened a special bracelet onto her wrist, "Kiki" stood beside them—three women, bound by love and family, taking a breath before everything changed. It was one of those fleeting, powerful pauses where generations meet in the middle of joy, memory, and deep connection.

A quiet pause before the vows—Erica’s mom and step-mom helped her into a meaningful bracelet, sharing a sweet moment full of joy, pride, and love just before the ceremony began.

Then, it was just Erica and her mom—one last check-in before the ceremony, a brief pause in the flurry of the day.

Erica and her mom, right before go-time.

Right after, Erica snuck inside to change into her ceremony gown. While guests were still gathering, we took in a view from the bedroom upstairs.

Backyard views from above and front-row hugs below. Erica watched her guests arrive while the littlest partygoers soaked up the early evening sunshine (and some snuggles).

Before heading out for the ceremony, Erica stole a quiet moment indoors—just her, her bouquet, and the family pup. The calm before the celebration, surrounded by beauty, love, and a wagging tail.

Before stepping outside, Erica took a quiet moment with two of her favorite things—her custom bouquet and her dog. The details in both? Absolute perfection.

I was photographing the bouquet and gown when I looked down to find the real star of the show: Penny. Erica’s loyal sidekick and honorary bridesmaid never let her out of sight—and honestly, can you blame her?

Penny, keeping close to her mama and stealing the spotlight before the ceremony even began.

I positioned Erica near a window for a few bouquet shots, but when I stepped back, the moment shifted. In black and white, her quiet strength and effortless beauty took center stage. Timeless. Radiant. My friend… the bride. 🤍

Light, lace, and loyalty—Erica stood quietly in the window light as Penny kept watch, refusing to let her out of sight.

Up next? The ceremony itself—complete with embroidered handkerchiefs, heartfelt vows, and the kind of sky that only makes an appearance for the most special love stories.

A not-so-subtle reminder from the bride to her dad: deep breaths, steady steps, and absolutely no crying… and never forget I was first. LOL

A Backyard Wedding Ceremony Surrounded by Nature

They exchanged vows beneath a floral-draped arbor on their own property, surrounded by their kids and closest friends. The setup was simple—wooden chairs on the lawn, spring blooms in every direction, and towering trees framing it all. It wasn’t overly scripted or showy—just real, emotional, and rich with quiet moments that meant everything. The kind of ceremony where you laugh, cry, and feel it all… and where the joy lingers long after the lights go out.

A quiet moment, hand in hand, as Erica and John paused for prayer before the ceremony began.

Inside, Erica and her dad shared one final hug before stepping out. Outside, guests settled in as John took his place. And on the porch, just behind the front door, a bride stood still—for just a moment—before everything began.

A hug, a deep breath, and a step into something new. Erica and her dad shared a quiet moment before making their way to the porch—where the walk really began.

Before the vows were spoken, Erica stepped out onto the front porch with her dad, clutching her bouquet and that hilariously embroidered handkerchief. With deep breaths and a few shared laughs, they made their way down the steps and across the lawn, where guests had already gathered. The ceremony began not with fanfare, but with stillness—hands held, heads bowed in prayer, and the quiet weight of the moment settling in.

With a handkerchief that read “Don’t lose your shit,” Erica passed her dad both a laugh and a warning before their walk down the aisle. Classic daughter move. Iconic bride energy.

Erica wore a beaded gown with a high slit, her look effortlessly glamorous against the woodland setting. John’s soft blue suit was classic with a hint of Southern charm. Together, they created a ceremony that felt sacred and unfussy—a true reflection of who they are.

When your family includes four-legged ride-or-dies, they get a front-row seat too. Delta made sure her humans didn’t say “I do” without her.

Design Details That Blended Glam with Earthy Elegance

Forget the notion that backyard weddings are rustic by default. Erica and John’s decor choices brought a hint of glam to the great outdoors. Their color palette leaned into nature’s beauty: whites, greens, and hints of soft blue echoed throughout the florals, the bridal bouquet, and even John’s attire.

Surrounded by towering pines and the people who matter most, Erica and John stood beneath their floral arbor and promised each other forever—simple, sacred, and deeply them.

Mallard feathers subtly tucked into arrangements and boutonnieres gave a nod to John’s love of the outdoors without overpowering the day’s elegance. Ferns framed the altar, grounding the ceremony space with organic texture. It was a woodland glam masterclass—intentional, elevated, and deeply personal.

A few laughs, a few deep breaths—and a promise sealed with prayer. Erica and John’s ceremony was as heartfelt as it was relaxed, a true reflection of their love.

From I Do to Let Loose | The Party Begins

Once the vows were sealed with a kiss (and an extra-long embrace), it was time to celebrate.

Sealed with a kiss—and a few joyful tears. Erica and John’s ceremony ended the way all good love stories should: with a kiss, a cheer, and a little extra sparkle in the air.

The newlyweds dipped, twirled, and strolled hand-in-hand down the aisle as guests cheered. But the best part? Watching them pause mid-aisle to soak in the moment. Their joy was contagious.

Just married and already making it look easy—Erica and John strolled back up the aisle with joy, kisses, and a porch that felt like home.

Portraits followed, not as a formal pause but as a natural continuation of the day.

Married and beaming—Erica and John took a moment to soak it all in before heading to celebrate with their guests.

Laughter spilled into every frame, with kids popping into shots, friends jumping in for hugs, and the couple sharing spontaneous kisses under their floral arbor.

Officially a party of six—because no family photo is complete without at least one kid going full chaos. 💥

Laid-Back Reception Vibes & Dance Floor Magic

As the golden hour turned to twilight, the reception kicked off on the lawn just steps from the house.

No receiving line needed—Erica and John were instantly surrounded by the people who love them most. Hugs, happy tears, and the kind of joy that doesn’t wait for a reception.

Guests grabbed cocktails from a self-serve bar stocked with bourbon, tequila, and Tito’s. String lights flickered in the trees, casting a warm glow over an open-air dance floor.

No assigned seats, no formality—just great music, cold drinks, and the kind of dance moves you only break out when you're surrounded by your favorite people. Backyard weddings hit different. 💃

Let’s be real—the playlist was fire. There were Dirty Dancing lifts, barefoot spins, and spontaneous performances from flower girls and grandmas alike.

From shawarma on the spit to rosemary-topped cupcakes and dance-offs in the grass—this backyard wedding didn’t miss a beat. Good food, good people, and an open dance floor? That’s the dream.

Erica changed back into her feathered reception dress and sneakers, making it clear: comfort and sparkle are not mutually exclusive.

Signature sips, sentimental toasts, and the kind of friends who show up early and stay late—custom cups in hand and hearts full.

Cupcakes, Cake Smashes, and Unfiltered Joy

Instead of a traditional cake cutting, Erica and John shared cupcakes—and quickly escalated into the most photogenic cake smash we’ve seen all year.

A cupcake showdown in the pines—equal parts sweet and savage. No one was safe (especially not John’s shirt).

Frosting-covered faces, uncontrollable laughter, and that perfect “don’t you dare” moment turned into a full-on icing war.

The most chaotic cake smash I’ve seen in a while—and easily the most fun. No mercy, no regrets, and definitely no napkins left untouched.

It was less about the cupcake and more about what it symbolized: this is a couple who plays, who laughs, and who leans into the moment every chance they get.

An instant classic: the cupcake did not survive, but the laughter absolutely did. Caught mid-air during a frosting-fueled standoff, this moment deserves its own replay reel.

And the aftermath? Equally iconic.

Bridal Bliss the way I like to see it done - No regrets, just joy.

Because when the frosting settles, all that’s left is love—and a little evidence on your face.

Close-up proof that love—and icing—looks good on everyone.

They cleaned up well, but not before a little more chaos and a few last laughs.

10/10 would recommend marrying your best friend and being ridiculous with them.

Family, Friends, and Backyard Wedding Perfection

Throughout the day, one thing stayed clear: Erica and John didn’t just host a wedding. They invited their people into a sacred space, a personal piece of land that now holds one of their most meaningful memories. Their backyard was more than a venue—it was part of the story.

Power couple status: confirmed.

From the ceremony beneath the pines to the late-night dance party under string lights, every part of this wedding was soaked in love, laughter, and legacy.

Just married and walking into forever like… 🥂 Erica and John made their exit from the altar with full hearts, big smiles, and hands held tight.

Scroll-Stopping Joy, In Every Frame

Because when the day is this good—you don’t stop at the highlights. These are the little in-between moments, the unexpected laughs, the soft glances, and the snapshots that tell the whole story. Erica and John’s wedding wasn’t just about beautiful details—it was about energy, connection, and the kind of joy you can feel in every photo. And there are SO MANY PHOTOS... So here are some more. :)

Before the ceremony even began, Erica was out front greeting guests—drink in hand, smile on her face, and fully in her element.

No waiting around here—the celebration kicked off the moment guests arrived. Erica and John set the tone with warm welcomes, a stocked bar, and the kind of backyard hospitality that makes everyone feel like family.

No bartender, no problem. Guests helped themselves to the whiskey barrel bar—because around here, we pour drinks like we do love: generously and with zero fuss.

The house wasn’t just a backdrop—it was part of the story. From front porch group photos to surprise hugs and a little pre-dinner porch party, every corner buzzed with connection, comfort, and celebration.

This is what it looks like when your home becomes the heart of the celebration—hugs, toasts, dance moves, and memories made on the front steps.

Erica didn’t wait for the party to come to her—she brought the celebration straight to her guests. From the moment they arrived, she was out on the lawn hugging necks, catching up, and handing out drinks. No awkward waiting around here—just connection and joy from the jump.

Who says you have to wait ‘til the reception to party? Erica made the rounds before the ceremony even started, sneakers on and heart wide open.

One of my favorite things about weddings like Erica and John’s is how seamlessly two families come together—not just in name, but in spirit. This sweet series of candids captures a quiet moment between Erica’s son and John’s daughter, who are incredibly close. No staging, no prompting—just natural connection, some playful energy, and a little last-minute hair touch-up from Erica’s best friend (and beauty guru for the day), Sable.

A real moment between bonus siblings, caught just before the ceremony. A little laughter, a quick hair check, and a whole lot of love.

With guests already welcomed, drinks flowing, and the energy feeling more like a backyard gathering than a rigid timeline, it was time. Erica stepped out with her dad, bouquet in hand, and walked the short but meaningful path from porch to altar—her dog Delta trotting nearby, and the people who love her most watching it all unfold.

Escorted by her dad—and flanked by the couple’s beloved dogs, Penny and Delta—Erica made her way across the lawn toward John, radiant and steady with every step.

As the music faded and the laughter settled, Erica reached the arbor. With their dogs by their side and the trees as their witnesses, she joined hands with John—ready to begin this next chapter together.

With Penny and Delta keeping close watch, Erica’s dad placed her hand in John’s—an emotional handoff under the floral-covered arbor that marked the start of something truly sacred.

And just when you thought this day couldn’t get any sweeter—Penny made her rounds. Erica’s loyal sidekick (and occasional scene-stealer) took her flower girl duties very seriously: offering cuddles, tail wags, and a reminder that love comes in all sizes.

Penny the pup, making friends and stealing hearts—one child at a time. 🐾

As vows were exchanged and promises made, Delta stayed right at their feet—quietly watching, perfectly content, and fully part of the moment. It was simple, emotional, and exactly them.

The vows, the view, and their very good girl—Delta made sure this moment was sealed with pawsitive energy. 🐾

Not everyone handled the ceremony with quiet reverence… Penny and Delta had other plans.

The bride and groom weren’t the only ones making a public declaration. Penny and Delta had business to attend to.

As guests giggled and tried to keep a straight face, the timing only made the moment more unforgettable. Because when you invite your dogs to the ceremony… you get the full experience.

Penny and Delta: emotional support animals, comic relief, and scene-stealers all in one.

And just like that—the vows were made, the rings exchanged, and the dogs… well, they handled their business too. With laughter still lingering in the air, Erica and John took their first steps as husband and wife.

That “we really did it” kind of smile. 🤍

Of course, no ceremony would be complete without a little comic relief—and the groom’s son delivered right on cue.

Jack, forever the jokester, busted in with the perfect post-ceremony energy—reminding everyone that while the vows were heartfelt, the laughs were just getting started.

After the laughter, chaos, and dog shenanigans (never forget), it was finally time to soak it in—just the two of them. A few quiet minutes for portraits before the real party kicked off.

With their ceremony in the rearview and spring light softening around them, Erica and John posed beneath the arbor they built together—easy smiles, happy hearts, and just the right amount of glam.

Every now and then, the camera catches something that feels less like a pose and more like a pause—where the emotion bubbles up and settles into something real.

One quiet kiss, bouquet in hand, with the arbor they built as their backdrop. A moment of stillness in a day that moved so fast.

Not every wedding portrait has to be polished. Sometimes the best ones are wrapped in laughter, quiet affection, and the comfort of being completely at ease with your person.

Flirty, sweet, and so very them—these portraits are proof that you don’t need a ballroom to feel like a bride. Just a GOOD man, a great dress, and a yard full of people who love you.

With vows exchanged and kisses sealed, Erica and John made their official exit—laughing, light-footed, and every bit themselves.

Before heading off to join their guests, Erica and John shared one more laugh beneath the arbor—just the two of them (and probably a punchline no one else heard).

Married life looks GOOD on them, don't it?

Married life looks good on them—arms swinging, smiles wide, and not a care in the world as they made their way back down the aisle.

After portraits and promises, it was time for family hugs, group photos, and a few dance moves that made everyone laugh before dinner was even served.

From multi-generational embraces to impromptu dance circles, this crew came ready to celebrate—and the joy was contagious.

The drinks were poured, the music turned up, and the celebration flowed—starting with the good stuff.

Top-shelf tastes for a top-tier night. Guests helped themselves to bourbon, tequila, and a little Southern vodka flair—cheers to that.

As the sun dipped behind the trees and the music picked up, the party really started to move. What began as a joyful dance turned into a full-blown movie moment.

Cue the lift! With a running start and a whole lot of laughter, Erica reenacted that Dirty Dancing moment—heels off, feathers flying, and pure adrenaline fueling the leap. Not pictured: Baby being put in a corner, because this crowd doesn’t play like that.

Still riding the high from the perfect lift? Just wait—Part Two brought even more footloose magic, wild energy, and laughter that echoed through the pines. A little Dirty Dancing, a lot of down-home fun.

Nobody puts Erica in a corner—especially not when the DJ's on point and the whole crew’s ready to spin, shout, and throw down on the dance floor (pine needles and all). Part Two of the reception brought the energy, the laughter, and yes, one seriously iconic lift.

As the sun set and the cake settled, the energy shifted into a perfect mix of barefoot dancing, belly laughs, and real connection.

Feet up, hearts full, and dance floors optional. This crew knew how to close out a celebration—with a little sass, a lot of love, and some serious moves.

Because every good love story deserves a cupcake and a sidekick.

With icing on her fingers and joy in her eyes, this little one closed out the celebration just right—one giggle (and one cupcake) at a time.

From Walking Down the Aisle to Dancing in the Pines, This Day Had It All

Every laugh, every hug, every spin on the dance floor—it was the kind of celebration that didn’t need a ballroom to feel grand. Just a family property, a whole lot of heart, and the kind of love that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

If you're planning your own backyard wedding in Georgia—or dreaming up a day that feels a little more you—let this be your sign that it can be both elegant and easygoing. I’d love to help you capture it all.

📸 Want timeless photos that feel like you? Let's talk!

VENDORS

PHOTOGRAPHER | Ivey Photo

VENUE | Clients’ Home BRIDE’S DRESS | Ever After Bridal

ALTERATIONS | Irinas PLANNING, COORDINATION, AND FLORALS | Katy Scott, Dirty Paws Flowers SIGNAGE + CUSTOM SHOES | Darby Thompson, Darboodlz and @goldendoodles_bydarby

HAIR + MAKEUP ARTIST | Sable Cameron DJ | DJ Marty Mar (for DJ Legendary) @DJLegendary42 CAKE | Publix FOOD | Taquizas Chuy

JEWELRY | Arney Guess

MUSICIANS | Somersault String Ensemble