Dreaming of a cozy, intimate wedding that feels personal and stress-free? This is what ME and the MRS did! A backyard wedding might be the perfect fit! As much as it would be awesome to have this grand wedding celebration, sometimes that wouldn’t be ideal, especially if your not that kind of person(s). Remember, plan a wedding that is for you, not them. So, whether you're working with a small space or a sprawling yard, hosting your big day at home can create a warm, inviting atmosphere with plenty of room for customization. Here’s how to plan a backyard wedding that’s as seamless as it is stunning.

We headed down to the Jersey Shore and built something special—right on the sand. I rigged up a full boho scene: a bamboo teepee draped in canvas, styled props to set the tone, and a custom floral headpiece I made just for her. Add in golden hour lighting, waves in the background, and two people wildly in love, and boom—you’ve got a shoot that looks like it came straight out of a styled editorial, but with real emotion behind every shot.

Because not every love story is neat. Not every couple has a Pinterest-perfect timeline with a 14-month lead-up and a luxury planner coordinating their every breath. Sometimes love gets messy. Sometimes life f*cks with your plans. And sometimes, you roll with it and end up creating something even better.

Ashley and Praveen’s story is proof that your wedding doesn’t have to be big to be powerful.

Tying the knot—literally! Handfasting is an old tradition that’s found new life in modern weddings, bringing a deep sense of connection and meaning to couples who want to step outside the typical ceremony structure. If you’re looking for a symbolic, romantic, and visually stunning addition to your wedding, handfasting might just be the perfect touch. Personally, my favorite wedding style is the fantasy/rustic look, and handfasting fits perfectly within that theme—think enchanted forests, medieval castles, and ethereal, fairy-tale vibes.

Planning your wedding day is one of the most exciting—and sometimes stressful—things you’ll ever do. Between the floral arrangements, seating charts, and dress fittings, it’s easy to overlook the little things. But trust me, a wedding day emergency kit can be your best friend when the unexpected happens. Whether it’s a broken heel, a sudden makeup mishap, or a forgotten hairpin, you’ll want to have everything you need to keep things running smoothly.

At the end of the day, your vows don’t have to be perfect—they just have to be you. Whether they’re poetic, funny, sweet, or simple, as long as they come from the heart, they’ll be perfect. And if all else fails, just promise to always share your fries and love them even if they make you watch The Notebook for the hundredth time—that’s true love right there.