East Bay Childhood Backyard COVID Wedding » Oakland, California

When Stephanie and Jack’s plans for a 200 person wedding at the end of May was postponed due to COVID-19, they decided that they still wanted to get married on their original date. Stephanie always dreamed of getting married in her parent’s backyard and with the guest list whittled down to immediate family and tiny handful of friends, it just made sense to go for it. I arrived on a warm sunny day, face mask on, knowing that I’d be relying on my favorite 85mm prime lens to maintain a safe distance. Jack greeted me andI set him up for his first look with Stephanie under a grand eucalyptus tree. Stephanie’s mom had taken extra lace from her dress to make a custom matching face mask so we made sure to snap a few portraits. Jack’s nieces and nephews were also all dressed up for the occasion as they served as ring bearers and flower girls. Once the rest of the handful of non-family guests arrived, the ceremony began. Everyone sat in their own seats, placed six feet apart as a tripod and laptop served to livestream the celebration to over 100 guests around the world who couldn’t make it. Jack’s sister officiated while Stephanie and Jack exchanged heartfelt vows. Afterwards, there was a bit of mingling and a quick champagne toast by the couple’s parents (everyone was given their individual cups and mini bottle) before Stephanie and Jack headed out for some portraits around the neighborhood. I am so grateful to have been able to photograph their backyard wedding, despite it not being their original plan. With all the global uncertainty and tragedy, it felt good to celebrate something so full of love, happiness and compassion.