There is just something magical about an intimate and elegant outdoor wedding.
Here are 5 reasons why I love intimate and elegant outdoor weddings: (with images from one of my absolute favorite weddings of this nature at the AMAZING Primland Resort.)
1. )  “Intimate wedding” is more than just a number:  Intimate does not simply mean a smaller guest count. (Though many times the most intimate weddings I photograph are under 100 guests…Ive also photographed a 250 person extremely intimate wedding.)   Intimate simply means the focus is on what I believe to be the ‘important stuff:’   The couple and those nearest-and-dearest to the couple.  Yes–many of my intimate wedding clients still have all of the typical wedding ‘bells and whistles,’ of gorgeous flowers, an amazing gown/tux and stellar wedding venue..  However, those are simply ‘extra credit.’ Intimate weddings honor and highlight the couple and the things and people they love in this world.  They are simply Pinterest page ‘knock-off’s’ and this allows me to truly document stories vs. simply pretty things.
2.)  The Outdoors is magical.  Now matter how gorgeous a center piece or gown–to me…there is nothing more gorgeous than an outdoor setting.  Something about being outdoors allows couples and their guests to be more relaxed.  Formalities (not elegance) goes out the door!  People smile more.  Connect more.  And in the case of intimate/outdoor destination weddings–everyone is on vacation!  They leave their worries at home and can be fully present and celebrate …often for 3 full days!3.) A smaller guest count can mean more connection:    In the case of weddings 100 and under there is a different level of intimacy.  In these cases the couple often elects to only invite those that are a part of their daily lives.  (no distant cousins nor friends of their parents they may hardly know;-)  Not only does this alleviate feeling many couples have of needing to try and talk to hundreds of guests they may or may not know on a very personal level. It allows for more of the real and raw moments I love to document as only those closest to the couple are present.  This is especially relevant during the ceremony.  Intimate wedding often have far less cell phones snapping photos and far more guests truly present and taking in the moment.


To me, there is just something incredibly special about an intimate/outdoor wedding.   Its why we hopped on a plane for our own intimate/elegant outdoor destination wedding in the Dominican Republic. (you can check out a few of our own wedding photos here:-)   (Note:  Outdoor does not necessarily mean ‘rustic.’   Some of the most sophisticated and elegant weddings I have photographed have taken place on mountain tops, beaches, gardens, vineyards and even the couples own backyard.
 
About 75% of the wedding I photograph have at least some outdoor element to the day. (thankfully) and the majority are under 100 guests.  Allowing this #momentprotector to do what she loves best…tell stories.
 
Life is comprised of small, but magical moments.   ..I protect them.
 
Wedding details from the above amazing wedding
Venue/Catering/Wine and magic:-) :  Primland Resort and Spa
Design/Florals:  Caroline LaRocca Events