A Cozy Celebration Filled with Autumn Mums, Sunflowers, and Love

Backyard weddings in Northern New Jersey always feel a little magical. Maybe it’s because they strip away formality and let love take center stage. Or perhaps it’s how they turn a familiar space into something new—intimate, personal, and full of meaning.

That’s exactly what happened when this couple said “I do,” surrounded by their closest family and friends in a charming neighborhood backyard. As a result, the entire day felt relaxed, joyful, and deeply personal.

If you’ve been dreaming of a backyard wedding but weren’t sure where to begin, or if you simply love fall celebrations with rustic DIY touches, keep reading. This day proves you don’t need a fancy venue to create something unforgettable—especially here in New Jersey, where the golden foliage sets the perfect backdrop.

The Perfect Northern New Jersey Backyard Canvas

Nestled in a quiet neighborhood in Northern New Jersey, this backyard wedding felt like something from a storybook. The ceremony space sat against a dark garage backdrop, and because of that contrast, the colorful florals truly popped—almost like artwork on a gallery wall.

The highlight of the space was a burlap-draped arch covered with sunflowers and daisies. Wooden barrels topped with mums in orange, burgundy, white, and yellow framed the arch beautifully. Meanwhile, a grass aisle lined with black folding chairs and small yellow blooms welcomed guests warmly. The result was rustic but not overly country, elegant yet relaxed—just right.

A Fall Color Palette That Stole the Show

Let’s talk about those mums. Because mums are affordable, long-lasting, and bursting with color, they’re the heroes of fall weddings. This couple filled their backyard with potted mums in oranges, burgundies, whites, and yellows. Combined with bright sunflowers, the palette felt warm, cheerful, and perfectly seasonal.

Meanwhile, the sun dipped low over the backyard, making the mums glow even brighter. As a thoughtful extra, guests took the potted mums home as favors. That simple idea made the decorations meaningful, sustainable, and memorable all at once.

The Couple: Relaxed, Radiant, and Real

The bride looked stunning in a white lace gown with soft floral appliqués. Because the dress was delicate but not fussy, it matched the natural garden setting perfectly. She carried a simple bouquet of white and green blooms that tied the look together beautifully.

After she walked down the aisle, the calm mood carried through the rest of the day. Her groom kept things easy and comfortable in a crisp white shirt, khaki pants, and a floral bow tie that echoed the floral theme. His laid-back look complemented hers wonderfully, and together they radiated calm, genuine happiness.

In the same thoughtful spirit, they included cultural touches that felt meaningful to them. One favorite detail was the origami crane motif printed on their custom napkins. Small, personal touches like that make a celebration feel uniquely yours.

An Intimate Celebration That Felt Like Family

Because the guest list was small, everyone felt included in every moment. With fewer than 100 guests, the day felt warm and personal. The ceremony unfolded right there on the lawn, with rows of guests smiling through every moment. Because everyone knew one another, the energy stayed light and joyful.

As the ceremony concluded, joy and laughter filled the air. After the ceremony, the celebration moved under a clear tent for dinner and dessert. The space glowed with string lights and laughter. In addition, the gentle fall evening created a soft, romantic glow under the tent. Guests lingered over sweet treats, chatted under the tent, and even played lawn games as the evening cooled—a perfect mix of elegance and fun.

After the ceremony, guests moved to a clear tent for the reception. The casual outdoor vibe continued with tables for dining, an incredible dessert spread, and plenty of space for mingling. There were even lawn games—because why not make it fun?

Why This Backyard Wedding Worked So Well

What made this wedding so inspiring? Several choices stood out:

• They embraced the season. The mums, sunflowers, and autumn colors made everything cohesive.
• They kept it simple. Nothing felt overdone, and each detail was thoughtful.
• They focused on meaning. Every moment centered on family and connection.
• They personalized it. From origami cranes to the intimate guest list, each choice reflected who they are.

As a result, the wedding felt authentic, effortless, and full of joy. Therefore, it’s a wonderful reminder that simplicity and love always go hand in hand.

The Post-Ceremony Stroll: Pure Magic

After saying their vows, the newlyweds took a quiet walk through the neighborhood. They held hands, laughed, and simply soaked in the moment. Because the atmosphere was calm and easy, the photos captured genuine happiness rather than posed formality.

Meanwhile, soft golden light filtered through the trees, wrapping the couple in that perfect fall glow. White picket fences, tree-lined streets, and fiery orange leaves created a cinematic backdrop. These images are the kind couples cherish forever—honest, joyful, and timeless.

The neighborhood setting with white picket fences, tree-lined streets, and autumn foliage created the perfect backdrop. These are the photos you’ll treasure forever—not stiff formal portraits, but real moments of joy and connection.

Kingsland Park in Nutley: A Scenic Portrait Stop

After their stroll through the neighborhood, the couple visited Kingsland Park in Nutley, NJ. Because the park sits only minutes away, it offered a peaceful setting for their first portraits as newlyweds. The afternoon light filtered through golden leaves, and the calm flow of the river made everything feel serene.

Because the park is peaceful and full of nature, it offered the perfect spot for their first portraits. They walked across the footbridge, paused beneath trees glowing in warm sunlight, and shared quiet laughter. In turn, those small pauses gave them a moment to breathe and enjoy being together. In turn, those small pauses gave them a moment to breathe and enjoy being together. As a result, the photos captured their connection naturally—no posing, just real joy surrounded by nature.

Planning Your Own Backyard Wedding in New Jersey: What to Know

Inspired by this celebration? Here are several tips to help you create your own relaxed and beautiful backyard wedding.

Key Things to Remember When Planning

Every wedding day flows best when the details feel intentional and simple. As you prepare, keep these helpful tips in mind.

Choose Your Season Wisely

Fall is perfect for backyard weddings across New Jersey. The air is crisp, colors are rich, and flowers like mums are easy to find. However, always plan for rain with a tent or backup indoor space.

Work With What You Have

For example, small backyard features can become the perfect photo backdrop with a creative eye. This couple used their dark garage backdrop to highlight colorful florals. Likewise, take a fresh look at your space and think about how light, trees, or walls could add character.

Think About Guest Comfort

Because comfort matters, make sure there’s plenty of seating, shade, and nearby restrooms. If temperatures drop, patio heaters keep guests cozy.

Go DIY Where It Makes Sense

Simple ideas—like potted mums from a local garden center—add charm without stress. They’re affordable, last longer, and can double as favors.

Hire Key Vendors

While do-it-yourself touches are wonderful, a few professionals ensure things run smoothly. A great photographer, caterer, and officiant allow you to relax and enjoy every moment.

Where to Find More Backyard Wedding Inspiration

If you love the backyard wedding look, explore these inspiring resources for more ideas and planning help.

• Green Wedding Shoes: Creative, outdoor, and DIY weddings with personality. Visit greenweddingshoes.com.
• A Practical Wedding: Real, budget-friendly ideas with honest advice at apracticalwedding.com.
• Ruffled Blog: Romantic and rustic inspiration with DIY guides. Explore ruffledblog.com.
• Style Me Pretty: Features elegant backyard celebrations by style and location. See stylemepretty.com.
• Intimate Weddings: Perfect for small or backyard events. Find them at intimateweddings.com.

→ Browse our Real Wedding Gallery (/gallery)
→ Check out our Planning Guides (/resources)

Final Thoughts: Make It Yours

What made this wedding so memorable was how true it felt to the couple. It wasn’t about perfection—it was about presence. Every detail reflected who they are, and because of that, guests felt the love in every moment.

Whether you’re planning a backyard wedding or simply love seeing beautiful celebrations, let this one remind you that the best weddings aren’t always the biggest—they’re the most heartfelt.

Congratulations to this beautiful couple, and thank you for letting us share a glimpse of your day.

Ready to Capture Your Backyard Wedding?

If you’re planning a backyard wedding in Nutley, Bergen County, or anywhere in Northern New Jersey, I’d love to help you feel relaxed and look your best.
Contact me to check availability →

Vendor Credits

Style: Intimate Backyard Wedding, Rustic Fall Theme

Photography: Alex Kaplan Photography

Date: October 18, 2025

Location: Northern New Jersey — near Kingsland Park in Nutley