BACKYARD WEDDING IN OHOPE BEACH - The best kind of wedding celebration

A Backyard Wedding That Felt Like Home

I recently photographed a backyard wedding in Ohope Beach, and it was the kind of day that reminds me why I love small, relaxed celebrations. There were just close friends and family, a backyard with a sweet view, and a couple who wanted their special day to feel like them, simple, personal, and fun.

Why Relaxed Weddings Make Sense

Relaxed weddings are becoming more popular, and honestly? It makes sense. You’re in a familiar space, the budget stretches further, and the stress levels stay low.

This couple kept things casual with a short wedding ceremony at a friend’s place near Ohope Beach. With only a handful of their nearest and dearest friends and family present, the day had a go-with-the-flow vibe, meaning no strict timelines or pressure, just good company and a lot of heart.

You can do things YOUR way

This couple had a clear idea of what they wanted; just a few relaxed group bridal portraits on location before heading back to Whakatāne for the real fun. Their backyard setup was their vibe, casual, intimate, and full of personality.

These newlyweds wanted to make the most of their time hanging with guests, so they opted to grab their bridal portraits on another date during golden hour at the beach.

A reminder that your wedding day doesn’t have to follow a traditional script to be meaningful. You can do it your way and still have a day that feels special and very much you.

Simple backyard setups packing personality

Plan your day around what matters most YOU

A Documentary Approach to Wedding Photography

Too many photographers turn your day into their content, chasing the “perfect shot” at the expense of what actually matters: you soaking up every moment with your people.

That’s not how I roll.

I’m here for couples who want the real stuff; messy, meaningful, and true to you. I read the room, follow the vibe, and document things as they naturally unfold, without hijacking your timeline or turning the day into a performance. Connection over perfection, always.

Planning a smaller wedding celebration in the Bay of Plenty?

If this kind of day sounds like your thing, personal, relaxed, nothing over-the-top; you’re in the right place.

I’m based near Whakatāne and available for smaller weddings (under 70 people) across the Bay of Plenty, from backyard setups to beach ceremonies and everything in between.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  

I'm Renee, a NZ lifestyle photographer servicing the Whakatane & wider Bay Of Plenty, creating easy-going photo experiences and vibrant imagery for laid-back families, parents-to-be, and couples who prefer meaningful photos with personality.

Planning a backyard wedding celebration? Check out my work and reach out to learn more.