If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like when two bold, hilarious, and madly-in-love souls say “I do” in the middle of a 100-degree summer day surrounded by their five amazing kids, then buckle up—because Nicole and Dustin’s 4th of July backyard elopement was everything.

This was one of those days that reminded me exactly why I do what I do.

A Wedding Day Where It All Began

The day started in Nicole’s childhood home—the same backyard where she used to run around barefoot as a kid would now become the spot where she promised forever. Talk about full-circle.

Nicole got ready surrounded by her closest friends and family, with laughter echoing through the house and that buzz in the air that only happens on a day as big as this one. Her glam team crushed it (even in the heat!), and she looked absolutely radiant in her lace gown.

Before we dive into the ceremony, we have to talk about her first look with her dad. There wasn’t a dry eye in sight—including mine. The way he looked at her? Pure pride, pure love, and pure emotion. Those are the moments you can’t script.

The Sweetest First Look by the Pond

Next up—first look with Dustin.

The two met quietly by the pond behind Nicole’s childhood home, and it was just them. No crowd, no pressure, just a breath of stillness before the celebration kicked off. They laughed, they cried, and they soaked in every second together.

As someone who’s known both of them for a while now, let me just say: these two are exactly who they are—unapologetically hilarious, bold, real, and head-over-heels for each other. Their energy is magnetic.

A Ceremony to Remember — And Then Some 🇺🇸

The ceremony took place right in the backyard, under a beautiful arbor, with American flags, floral touches, and the warmth (literally and emotionally) of everyone they love.

But the most powerful part? Their sand ceremony with all five of their children.

Each child added their own color—red, white, or blue—into the vase, symbolizing the blending of their family into one. It was emotional, intentional, and something I’ll remember forever. I honestly don’t think there was a single person who didn’t tear up during that moment. It was unity in the most beautiful form.

And yes—it was about 100 degrees. But you know what? No one cared. The heat didn’t stop the laughter, the love, or the celebration. This day was hot, sweaty, emotional, chaotic, hilarious—and completely perfect.

From Backyard Vows to Forever

After the ceremony, the party kicked off with drinks, music, and more backyard vibes. Everyone came together in that space where so many childhood memories were made—and now, new memories began.

It wasn’t about perfection. It wasn’t about over-the-top. It was about heart. About family. About honoring the journey that brought them here and dancing their way into this new chapter.

To Nicole & Dustin…

Getting to be a part of your day? It meant the world. Watching one of my best friends marry her perfect match, in the home where it all began, with your babies standing beside you? There’s truly no way to put it into words.

You two are loud, bold, loving, hilarious, emotional, and 1000% real—and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Your love is big. Your family is beautiful. And this day was everything it needed to be.

Forever obsessed with your love story.

Planning Your Own Backyard Elopement?

Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy celebration in your childhood backyard, on a mountaintop, or by the sea—your day should feel like you. Let’s throw out the rulebook and make some magic.

Ready to plan your wildly intentional elopement?
Click here to get in touch! 💌