Some weddings are so special that they deserve more than just one post. This one? It was hands down the most chill, intentional, and enjoyable wedding day I’ve had the pleasure of documenting. Every aspect of the day deserves its moment in the spotlight, so let’s dive into why S & J’s wedding was so unique and inspiring.
Starting the Day Together – A Quiet, Intimate Morning
S & J are the farthest thing from “photo people.” While they wanted their love story documented, they didn’t make their wedding day a production filled with photo ops and overly planned portraits. Instead, they planned a day that made sense for them as a couple—and it was simply perfect.
Their wedding morning started with just the two of them getting ready together. They helped each other with the little details—tying the tie (after a bit of YouTube assistance, of course), zipping up the dress, and slipping on their shoes. They oooh’d and awww’d at each other, soaking in the reality that their milestone day had finally arrived.
Once they were ready, we took a short walk up the street to pick up their bridal bouquet and boutonnière, running into loved ones along the way. It was such a simple moment, yet it was filled with soft intimacy, real candid interactions, and my favorite part—the fact that they spent their entire morning together. This non-traditional approach set the tone for a wedding day that was about creating real memories, sharing authentic moments, and being fully present with each other.
A Rooftop Ceremony With Just Close Family
Instead of a big ceremony with their full guest list, S & J tied the knot on the rooftop of their apartment building with just their immediate family. The setting was perfect—a blue sky, a gentle breeze, and a breathtaking view of the mountains. It was short, sweet, and exactly what they wanted.
Afterward, they celebrated with a massive charcuterie board and local craft beers. S & J carved out an entire hour and a half to simply hang out with their family—no rush, no stress. They hugged their loved ones, enjoyed their food, and truly soaked in the day.
Too often, I see wedding timelines packed minute by minute, leaving no space for real moments. So much time, money, and anticipation go into planning a wedding, yet many couples barely get a chance to eat! S & J, on the other hand, made sure they had time to be present, connect, and enjoy a cold drink with the people who mattered most.
The Chillest Wedding Reception – Food Trucks, Beer, and Games
If their intimate afternoon wasn’t already a vibe, their reception was on another level. Instead of a sit-down dinner, S & J rented out their favorite brewery and had two of their go-to food trucks pull up. Long benches and standing tables let guests seat themselves however they wanted. The entertainment? Ping pong (which quickly turned into beer pong), shuffleboard, arcade games, and cornhole. The beer was cold, the food was fresh, and everyone was having an absolute blast.
I can’t emphasize enough how much I loved this wedding. It was far from traditional, far from glamorous, and yet—it was SO. FREAKING. RAD. Too many couples get caught up in what they’re “supposed to do” for their wedding. But S & J proved that your wedding should be whatever the hell you want it to be. If you’re going to invest in a celebration, make sure it’s something you’re actually going to enjoy.
Vendors:
Reception Venue: Parkside Brewery
Reception Coordinator: Encore Events Wedding Planning
Food Trucks: Tacofino & The Frying Pan
Planning a Non-Traditional Wedding? Let’s Make It Epic!
If you’re a couple planning a wedding and you want something cool, chill, and non-traditional—hit me up. Let’s create the most fun, authentic day that reflects exactly who you are. Because your wedding day should feel like YOU, not just a checklist of traditions. Let’s make magic happen! ✨ Inquire now!!
