Kate & Joe | Berkeley Redwoods & Backyard Wedding Photography

Kate and Joe did something daring: they planned a wedding in their own backyard! Months were spent months planning, preparing, stringing lights and decorating the terraced backyard, turning it into the perfect intimate venue. You'd never know that dinner was served in what is usually a driveway!

Kate and Joe also involved their cats in the day, which is all it takes to steal my heart. After getting ready at their house we headed to the amphitheater at the UC Botanical Garden, a forested wonderland complete with intimate seating and towering trees. Friends and family performed the ceremony, starting off with a musician-lead processional onto the stage! The reception at their house involved amazing tacos, music by friends, and a porch dance party into the evening.

Ceremony: UC Botanical Garden Redwood Grove
Reception: Kate's house!
Kate's dress: Needle & Thread | Heels: Nina | Sandals: Dolce Vita
Joe's suit: Banana Republic | Tie: Brooks Brothers
Rings: Brilliant Earth
Bridesmaid Skirts: Jenny Yoo
Catering: Tacolious
DJ: Ivy Hill Entertainment
Florals: D'Jour Floral of Kensington
Hair & Makeup: Beauty by Rebecca Robles
Rentals: Classic Party Rentals
 

Kate & Joe's wedding had all of my favorite things: creative thoughtful touches, cats galore, their actual home as a venue, mismatched bridesmaid skirts, and a whole lot of belly laughs. As Kate said during dinner, "I can't believe you are all eating dinner in my parent's driveway!" And we can't forget the ceremony was at an amphitheater in the redwoods (across from a cactus greenhouse, no less!). Their friends & family were extremely involved in the planning & execution of this event, which really shone throughout the day. If you're looking to host your own wedding, this is certainly one to go by.