Sometimes the most magical weddings are the ones no one sees coming. What started as a casual backyard baby shower in Sherman Oaks, California, quickly became a surprise small intimate wedding for Jenna and Collin, and I was there to capture it all on digital and film!

They’ve spent the last ten years building a life full of adventure and animals (two dogs, a cat, an iguana, and four chickens!) and now they’re preparing to welcome a baby girl. Their day reflected everything they love: warmth, laughter, and a laid-back, go-with-the-flow vibe with family, friends, and of course, their pets.

A Baby Shower… With a Twist

Guests arrived expecting to celebrate Jenna and Collin’s baby, relaxing by the pool on a perfect sunny October day. The atmosphere was light, playful, and full of connection. After a couple of hours, Collin’s sister gathered everyone together, and in the most emotional moment, revealed that the couple wasn’t just celebrating a baby. They were getting married right then and there.

Happy tears. Shock. Big smiles. It was perfect. The surprise wedding was completely in line with Jenna and Collin’s personalities: authentic, adventurous, and full of heart.

The Sweetest Backyard Wedding Ceremony

The ceremony took place in a small, intimate space tucked along the trees near the pool. Guests gathered on one side as dogs ran around, adding the perfect touch of chaos and fun. Collin’s sister officiated, and the couple exchanged vows surrounded by their closest family, friends, and pets. It was simple, meaningful, and completely true to who they are.

Small weddings like this are magical because every detail feels intentional. The laughter, the tears, the hugs, and the candid interactions all carry so much meaning because things are so in the moment. Without a strict timeline, there’s space to breathe, soak it all in, and simply be.

Why I Love Nontraditional Intimate Weddings

Small weddings give couples freedom. There’s no strict timeline, no pressure, no rigid expectations, just space to celebrate love in a way that feels truly theirs.

Backyard ceremonies, micro weddings, and unique timelines let couples focus on connection and love. They can include the people (and pets!) that matter most, create personal touches that reflect their lives, and have a day that’s completely theirs.

Jenna and Collin’s wedding was a perfect example: informal yet meaningful, fun yet emotional, and filled with real-life moments that made the day feel so authentic.

If you’re dreaming of something small or a little outside the “traditional” mold, Jenna and Collin’s day is such a beautiful reminder that your wedding can look exactly how you want it to.

Capturing Your Own Small, Intimate Wedding

If you’re dreaming of a small or nontraditional wedding in Costa Mesa, Los Angeles, or anywhere in Southern California, I’d love to document it. If you’re drawn to documentary-style, candid photography with a hint of editorial vibes, I think we’d be a great match! I focus on capturing the moments that make your day uniquely yours. The laughter, the tears, the pets, and the joyful chaos.

Your wedding doesn’t need to fit a mold. It just needs to feel like you. See more love stories on my blog and reach out here to begin your journey!

xo, Karissa

35mm Film

Check out this other unique intimate wedding in Southern California that I captured and follow along on IG for more inspo!