• Real Weddings

Like most couples, Elvin and Mich endured a lot of trials and tribulations to be together. A long distance relationship, infrequent visits since Elvin lived out of the country.
For years their friends called their relationship a romantic comedy, so naturally their wedding had to have a fairytale ending. With the help of family and friends they created a whimsical fairy-tale like setting in their very own backyard. Filled to the brim with trinkets, tea pots and old books. Read on for more tips on creating your very own backyard wedding, and as always see more photos in the full gallery here, artistically captured by Hot Metal Studio.

On Creating Their DIY Backyard Reception:The streamers and lights over the driveway were discount strands from Big Lots and about 8 $1 goodwill sheets ripped up. The "wonderland" seating area canopy was net christmas lights connected with floral wire. The general decor was a result of months of collecting from flea markets, thrift stores and yard sales. I have always loved things that show a little age and character because I think they build an atmosphere, a feeling. I didnt want things to be too Victorian or frilly but I wanted it to feel whimsical, like you were just slightly outside of normal for a night.

Advice from the bride on having a backyard weddingDon't let yourself be overwhelmed or seduced by how many options the industry gives you. If you're on a budget I would recommend trying to think about what is most important to you (ours was pictures) and what resources you already have available. We were lucky to know people who are professional caterers, brewers, artists but we also tried to plan the day with our venue, personal belongings and talents in mind.

No one we knew wanted to deal with fresh flowers, so we went in a different direction and had the girls carry tea cups. Those sort of compromises help ease the stress of DIY wedding and also create really unique details. If you're having it at your house, be sure to research everything! Outlets, voltage, septic system, noise violations, home owners insurance liability coverage, parking...there's a lot to know.

Instead of favors send guests home with snacks like gourmet popcorn, fun snack bags and fruits, nuts and veggies for the healthy folks.

Advice From The Bride on Creating Their PhotoboothWe made the photobooth ourselves from a tutorial we found on a wedding blog. The frame, molding and our window altar for the ceremony all came from Construction Junction in Pittsburgh, which saved us heaps of money. I've always been teased by my friends and family for loving awful 60's colors, so the brown paisley wallpaper was a no-brainer haha. We also wanted something that wouldn't overtake the colors and patterns of people posing.

Photographer: Hot Metal Studio Catering: The Art of Coffee Catering Groomsmen gifts: Ira Gerhart Metal Work Beer: Full Pint Brewing Hair: Ramie Ferguson