Backyard Wedding in Guelph, Ontario | Elora First Look | Justin Russo Photography
When you mix a gorgeous backyard, a couple madly in love, and a location full of personal meaning, you get something truly unforgettable. Vicki and Jeff’s backyard wedding in Guelph, Ontario, was a beautiful, heartfelt celebration — and I’m so excited to share their story with you.
As a wedding photographer based in Kitchener-Waterloo, I love documenting weddings that feel deeply personal. Vicki and Jeff’s day was filled with so many genuine moments and a whole lot of laughter.
A Sentimental First Look in Elora, Ontario
We started the day in Elora, Ontario, a charming and historic town that holds a very special place in Jeff and Vicki’s story. Jeff had proposed to Vicki on a picturesque bridge in Elora, and it only made sense for them to return to that exact spot for their first look on their wedding day.
The bridge, surrounded by Elora’s natural beauty and the sound of the river rushing below, made for the perfect setting. Their first look was emotional and full of excitement — you could feel the joy radiating from them as they saw each other for the first time. I love when couples choose meaningful locations for their wedding photos, and Elora truly offers some of the best spots for wedding photography in Southern Ontario.
After capturing some beautiful moments around the bridge and historic Elora streets, we made our way to Guelph for the ceremony and backyard reception.
A Beautiful Backyard Wedding Reception in Guelph
Vicki’s parents opened their home — and their incredible garden — for the reception, and it was absolutely stunning. The backyard was transformed into a whimsical, romantic space, filled with vibrant blooms, twinkling string lights, and cozy lounge areas for guests to relax and mingle.
From an emotional ceremony to heartfelt speeches that had everyone laughing (and crying), every moment felt authentic and full of love. Backyard weddings like this one are a perfect reminder that you don’t need a massive venue to have a day that’s unforgettable — you just need your people, a beautiful setting, and a lot of heart.
As the sun set, we snuck away for some golden hour portraits among the gardens — capturing that soft, glowing light that makes wedding photography in Guelph and Kitchener-Waterloo so special during Ontario summers.
Why I Love Backyard Weddings in Guelph, Elora, and Beyond
Backyard weddings have a kind of magic you just can’t recreate elsewhere. They’re laid-back, deeply personal, and allow for so much creativity and customization. Whether you’re dreaming of a small elopement, an intimate garden ceremony, or a full backyard party under the stars, it’s an incredible way to make your wedding truly your own.
As a Kitchener-Waterloo wedding photographer who photographs weddings all across Guelph, Elora, and Southern Ontario, I specialize in capturing the real, unscripted moments that make your wedding day yours — full of color, feeling, and joy.
Planning Your Guelph or Elora Wedding? Let’s Connect!
If you’re planning a backyard wedding in Guelph, a first look in Elora, or a beautiful celebration anywhere across Kitchener-Waterloo, I’d love to document your day. I’m passionate about creating vibrant, authentic, and heartfelt wedding photography that tells your story — just as it unfolds.
Visit www.justinrusso.com to learn more about my wedding photography services in Kitchener-Waterloo, Guelph, Elora, and beyond.
Let’s create memories that you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
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