Intimate Backyard Wedding | Beachfront Park | Pickering, ON | J+A

J+A’s backyard wedding in Pickering, Ontario ✨

An intimate backyard wedding in Pickering

J and A’s wedding is proof that a small celebration can feel every bit as elegant as a big one. They said their vows in a backyard in Pickering, just east of Toronto, took their portraits down by Lake Ontario, and finished the night under a white tent glowing with string lights.

A ceremony under a draped arbour

The ceremony arch was simple and beautiful: white fabric draped over a wooden frame against the fence, with lanterns set on the grass. The groom wore a blue suit with a blush tie, the bridesmaids wore blush pink, and the bride carried a bouquet of white and blush roses with soft greenery. Her lace gown had a sheer neckline and a beautiful lace back. Watching them exchange rings was one of my favourite moments of the day.

Portraits by Lake Ontario

After the ceremony we headed down to Beachfront Park on the shore of the lake. Big pieces of driftwood and an old fallen tree with its roots spread across the sand made the most incredible backdrop, and the groom even scooped the bride up right at the water’s edge. On the way back we stopped in the middle of a quiet street for a few last photos as the light faded.

An evening under the tent

By nightfall the tent was lit up with string lights, and we stepped outside for one more kiss while everyone celebrated inside.

Tips for an intimate backyard wedding

1. Keep the ceremony simple. Draped fabric and a few lanterns can turn a backyard into a beautiful ceremony space.
2. Plan a short trip for portraits. A beach or park nearby gives your gallery a completely different look.
3. Light up the evening. String lights in a tent look magical in photos after dark.

Planning a wedding in the Toronto area? See an elegant fall wedding at The Guild Inn Estate in Scarborough, or a romantic garden engagement session at Parkwood Estate in Oshawa.