If these two look extra familiar, it’s because they should! Just a month or so ago we did their engagement session at Manito Park, and it was one of my favorites!! I was so excited to see them again for their DIY Backyard Onalaska Wedding that I could hardly contain myself!!

These two got married at Olivia’s parents house. They have acres and acres of beautiful property which really was the perfect setting for their wedding. As I pulled up to the house, I couldn’t stop thinking how CUTE everything was! Olivia and her mom, along with the help of a few others, spend months collecting chairs, and china, and everything else they needed to make their wedding as perfect as could be. And it was just that. PERFECT!

The little details of the day were some of my favorites things. I loved that Olivia got married at the home that she grew up in. It hasn’t changed much, so she told me, but it was a pretty special place.

Leading up to the wedding, we had initially planned to NOT have a first look, but because these two are ALREADY down in St. George for Bryan to go to med school, we just couldn’t figure out a way to make a day after session happen. I did offer to fly down to southern Utah because, HELLO-Red rocks, but they knew that Bryan is going to be busy and they didn’t want to have to stress about that. We ended up doing the first look, and it was the sweetest moment ever. Because the wedding was at the bride’s parent’s home, there was a lot of family already staying there, making it difficult to find a secluded area outside. We decided to do it upstairs in the loft of their home, away from everyone, with me hiding in the corner, and it was absolutely perfect. We also did a first look with her dad, and those ALWAYS make my little daddy’s girl heart pitter-patter. He just kept telling Olivia how beautiful she was, and even looking back through them makes me a little teary. So. Dang. Cute.

Bryan and Olivia decided not to have a wedding party, but that didn’t mean that their best friends weren’t there. Olivia’s best friends, both from college and growing up, were there to hand her flowers before she walked down the aisle to her hubby. The music was played by Olivia’s brother and his wife (who also brought the cutest puppy EVER named Sam). Olivia’s best friend, Kendall (and also another one of my 2017 brides!) said the sweetest tribute to them, and they did something I hadn’t seen before! They planted a tree together, and I thought it was amazing. It just helped tie everything together.

The reception tables were decorated with different anniversary plates, as well as wedding photos from their families. Going WAY back to great-great grandparents, even. I loved that they had those sweet reminders of where it all started and what’s it’s become because of those relatives. Just like the tree they planted will grow and bloom year after year, their families will continue to grow. I loved it.

We had a yummy dinner, all made by family, and some of the BEST desserts I’ve ever had, which Olivia and her sweet grandma have made over the last few days. They were super yummy. You don’t get much better than grandma’s cookies. I’m just sayin’.

I could go on and on about how great the day was, and I think I have used the work perfect way too many times, but it really was. I’m again grateful for getting the chance to get to know these two, and to celebrate along side them and their families such an important day.

Bryan and Olivia, thank you SO much for choosing me as your wedding photographer. I’m so excited to see how this next adventure treats you guys, and Bryan, I just know you’re going to make the best doctor! Olivia, you were a stunning bride, and you have the sweetest heart. Thanks to your family for working so hard, and for welcoming us like we were one of your own. You guys are amazing. CONGRATS!!!!!!!

“Fun” and “Less Fun” Lemonade. HA! 🙂

This is Sam. He’s adorable. If it wasn’t frown upon, I could have ended up with a new puppy this day. Kidding……. 😛

DIY Backyard Onalaska Wedding Vendors

Venue: Bride’s Parent’s Home

Bride’s Dress: David’s Bridal

Groom’s Attire: Banana Republic

Flowers: Costco

Desserts: Bride and Bride’s Grandmother

Caterer: Bride’s Family

Band: Half Pack Live

Invitation Suite: Emy D Designs

Second Shooter: Donny Mays

You can see their wedding featured over on Apple Brides here!