AnnMarie + Jacob // Backyard Micro Wedding in Asheville, NC
A laidback wedding day on a private estate in hendersonville, nc — followed by a big reception at camp cedar cliff in asheville, nc.
Why a Backyard Micro Wedding Followed by a Larger Reception Might Be the Perfect Fit
If the thought of a packed wedding timeline and a hundred guests watching your every move makes you want to elope, you’re not alone. More and more couples are embracing the freedom to create a wedding experience that genuinely feels like them—starting with an intimate micro wedding in the backyard of a private estate, followed later by a larger reception for friends and extended family.
And honestly? It’s a beautiful way to have the best of both worlds.
A Backyard Micro Wedding Offers Space to Breathe
There’s something magical about exchanging vows in a peaceful backyard surrounded by just your closest loved ones. Without the pressure of a big audience, couples often feel more relaxed and present during their ceremony—which means I get to capture those raw, candid moments that truly matter: the shaky hands, the quiet laughs, the tearful smiles.
Private estates or family backyards also offer a deeply personal and meaningful setting. You’re not just renting a venue—you’re creating memories in a place that feels grounded, peaceful, and uniquely yours.
A Larger Reception Can Still Be Part of the Celebration
Just because you’re opting for a smaller ceremony doesn’t mean skipping the party. Hosting a bigger reception afterward gives you the chance to celebrate with more friends and extended family, without sacrificing the intimacy of your ceremony. This two-part approach lets you stay grounded in the emotional core of your day, while still getting to dance the night away with a bigger crowd. Or in AnnMarie + Jacobs case, they opted for yard games and ended the day with their cake cutting!
It’s Your Wedding—You Get to Make the Rules
Traditions can be beautiful, but they shouldn’t be a box you feel trapped in. I’ve worked with couples who’ve written their own vows, included their pets in the ceremony, or shared a quiet breakfast together before saying “I do.” What matters most is that your wedding reflects you.
Planning a micro wedding followed by a larger reception can take the pressure off, allowing you to focus on connection over performance. And as your photographer, I’m here to create a calm, comfortable space where you can just be together—and trust that every candid, heartfelt moment will be preserved.
So if you’re dreaming of a wedding day that feels personal, intentional, and stress-free, a backyard micro wedding might just be your perfect starting point.
Vendor Team:
Venue | Private Residence + campcedarcliff Planning | marybellevents Photography | baileybattenphotography Beauty | anariebeauty Florals | eastwestvintagerentals Catering | celineandcompany Rentals | professionalparty Violinist | Jenny Brunner
About the Author: Hey, I’m Bailey Batten, a wedding and elopement photographer based out of Boone, North Carolina. I live for the small candid moments that make up your special day and strive to bring a calm energy and a listening ear to capture your love story through artful photographs.
Are you getting married? Check out my portfolio & GET IN TOUCH!
