Not every wedding needs a ballroom, a packed guest list, or a traditional venue to feel incredibly special. Aaron and Emily’s backyard elopement in West Hills is proof of that. They chose to get married at the groom’s parents’ home. Surrounded by just a handful of their favorite people, and every part of the day felt personal from start to finish. Between getting ready together, saying their vows in the backyard. And ending the night with dinner around the table. It felt less like an event and more like one of those days you’ll never forget!

Why a Backyard Elopement in West Hills Feels So Personal

The second I walked onto the property, I understood why they picked it. The home is absolutely beautiful, with warm wood architecture, lush gardens, winding stone paths. And little tucked-away corners that made every part of the day feel cozy. It wasn’t trying to be a wedding venue, it was already a place filled with memories. And that made every part of the day feel even more meaningful.

One of my favorite moments happened before the ceremony even started. Instead of getting ready separately, Aaron and Emily spent the morning together in Aaron’s childhood bedroom. Helping each other get dressed and taking everything in before the day officially began. It set such a calm tone for the rest of the day and felt like the perfect reminder that there are no rules when you’re planning an elopement!

The Heart of This Backyard Elopement in West Hills

With only five or six guests gathered beneath strands of hanging flowers, the ceremony felt peaceful, intentional, and incredibly intimate. Their officiant lit incense before they exchanged vows. Filling the garden with the most calming scent and creating an atmosphere that felt almost magical. It was spiritual without following any particular tradition, which made it feel so personal to them.

One of the most meaningful parts of the ceremony was the ring blessing. Before Aaron and Emily exchanged rings, each guest held them for a moment, offering a blessing, a prayer, or simply sending them love. It was such a thoughtful way to include everyone there, and you could feel just how much those relationships meant to them.

A Cozy Ending to the Perfect Wedding Day

After the ceremony, we explored the property for portraits, and honestly, every corner was photo-worthy. Emily’s vintage Gunne Sax dress fit the setting so perfectly, and between the gardens, stone pathways, and beautiful architecture, it felt like we had endless places to explore. We even wandered over to the family’s small vineyard before spotting a rattlesnake, which quickly sent us in another direction. It definitely gave us a story to laugh about afterward.

Once portraits were finished, Aaron and Emily changed into comfortable clothes and settled into the evening with their favorite people. Instead of a formal reception, they ordered food from one of their favorite local restaurants, plated it themselves, and shared dinner around the table with family. It was relaxed, unhurried, and such a good reminder that your wedding day doesn’t have to look traditional to be unforgettable.

Planning an Intimate Wedding of Your Own? Would Love To Chat!

Jenny Rolapp Photography | Southern California Wedding Photographer

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels relaxed, meaningful, and completely true to you, don’t overlook the places that already hold your favorite memories. A family home, a backyard, or somewhere you’ve loved for years can become the perfect place to start your next chapter. If you’re planning an intimate wedding or elopement and want photos that capture the real moments, not just how everything looked, but how it felt, I’d love to tell your story. Head to my contact page so we can chat about the ideas you have! If you want to learn more about me and what I do, click here. Can’t wait to hear from you!