Kelsey and Rhys’ backyard wedding was so elegant and sophisticated that we almost can’t believe they planned it in just one month! They nailed the laid-back outdoor dinner party vibe by keeping the decor simple with eucalyptus greenery from Our Little Flower Company, lanterns, wine bottle table numbers, and beautiful calligraphed signage. What really put the decor over-the-top, though, were the DIY elements, especially the hexagonal backdrop Kelsey’s father built for the ceremony and the photo display the couple built using old crates for the reception. We also love the nods to Rhys’ Mexican heritage with the Mariachi Del Sol band that played during margarita hour and the ice breaker game that involved sombreros and tequila! Photographer Kaoverii Silva could not have captured this day more perfectly!
The Couple:
Kelsey and Rhys
The Wedding:
Private Residence, Vancouver, Canada
We didn’t do a first look, so the first moment walking down the aisle with my Dad by my side and seeing Rhys was an extremely special moment for us. Our vows were another memorable moment. I would highly recommend everyone write their own vows!
I found my dress at The White Peony in Victoria and absolutely love it! It was so me and fit the vibe of our wedding, too. I knew I wanted a deep V neckline, but tried on so many before this one. This dress had the perfect mix of mature yet a fun skirt. The bracelet I wore was a gift from my in-laws for my 30th birthday, which made it extra special. And I had pictures of my dog that we lost tragically last year around my bouquet. I always imagined Bella at my wedding, and losing her was a really challenging time for Rhys & I, along with our families. So I felt adding her to my bridal bouquet was a touching tribute to her, and calming for me to know she was with us for the day.
SHOP THIS LOOK
The property set the tone for us. We knew we wanted something laid back, like an outdoor dinner party, because our wedding was actually on my (the bride’s) 30th birthday! I love black calligraphy, so all our signs were simple and we just added eucalyptus for an extra green touch.
Our Emcee had anyone who wanted us to kiss play a game. They had to come up to the mic, wear a sombrero or swig tequila, and teach everyone a word in Spanish. Rhys’ Dad is from Mexico, and it was a really entertaining way for everyone to get to know each other. We also had a churro cart for late night snack!
Processional (Groom) – “Forever” by Ben Harper
Processional (Bride) – “You and Me” by You+Me
Recessional – “Everything” by Michael Buble
First Dance – “In Case You Didn’t Know” by Brett Young
The Wedding Team:
Photography – Kaoverii Silva
Day-Of Coordinator – Bright Gray Events
Floral Design – Our Little Flower Company
Catering – Restaurant 62
Churro Cart – Hugo’s Churros
Officiant – Young Hip & Married
Live Music – Mariachi Del Sol
Videography – Hera Studios Inc.
Makeup Artist and Hair Styling – The Glamoury
Wedding Dress – Mikaella Bridal via The White Peony
Bridesmaids’ Apparel – Show Me Your Mumu
Groom’s Apparel – Hugo Boss
Rentals – Bespoke Decor
Wood Tables – Woodpecker Tables
Favors – Rainy Days Cookies
Congratulations to Kelsey and Rhys, and our biggest thanks to photographer Kaoverii Silva for sharing this sophisticated backyard wedding with Junebug! Planning a backyard wedding of your own and looking for more inspiration? You have to see how this bride transformed her childhood home into an epic California backyard wedding venue!
Such a gorgeous wedding. Do you know if the private residence was rented out, or was it a family/friend’s place? I’m looking for a venue exactly like this, but can’t seem to find one!