Thoughts on how to bring together your closest family and friends for an intimate celebration like H&J did here in the Catskills!

Start with your venue

Hanna and Joe chose the Elizabeth House in Leeds, New York – partially for its gorgeous grounds: the beautiful old house and riverfront yard – but also because the property has several cabins where their loved ones were able to stay in the nights leading up to and after the wedding! For an intimate celebration like this one, you can likely seek out an Airbnb property like these two did, rather than a traditional wedding venue.

Fewer guests, fewer vendors, fewer costs?

Aside from the property, H & J brought in a hair & makeup artist for the ladies, a florist, and a caterer for dinner – and of course, me to capture it all!

Nearlyweds often think that a backyard wedding will save money, but this isn’t always true. While traditional venues tend to have a higher price tag, they often include the linens, chairs, tent, etc. – things you’ll usually have to rent independently for a backyard setting.

Chill vibes with privacy and lower stakes

One of my favorite things about a small wedding like this – the chill, flexible vibes. They got ready relaxed with their pals, started the ceremony when they felt ready and the sunset looked beautiful, and hung out on the veranda until dinner was ready. They ended the night with a spontaneous splash in the pool before cozying up around the fire. What could be better? We also took photos with the little kids and dogs when their energy was right, rather than forcing it at the penciled in family photo time.

With a more traditional day and dozens of guests, you probably have a timeline and a venue coordinator and maybe even a separate day-of coordinator or planner, keeping every moment on track. With a smaller, quieter evening, you can do whatever you want based on the vibes or the weather.

Final thoughts from an intimate wedding photographer

If you’re looking for a private, relaxed wedding day with your immediate family and friends, consider booking an Airbnb for a long weekend!

And if you’re looking for a photographer or super 8 videographer to capture your intimate day – I’d love to chat with you!