Sheila and Rob held a beautiful micro-wedding in the backyard of their Manhattan apartment building. You may not think backyard weddings are possible in New York City, but they indeed are. The building Sheila and Rob live in holds a lovely backyard, perfect for this intimate NYC micro-wedding.

Backyard NYC Micro-Wedding in Manhattan

Though this was not the wedding these two had initially envisioned, Sheila and Rob decided to press on with their marriage in 2020. This backyard elopement had their family members gathered in an intimate setting, perfect for a small wedding at home. As they tied the knot, neighbors in nearby apartments cheered them on.

If there’s one thing we’ve learned about New York elopements in the last year, it’s that there is so much community support. We love how much New Yorkers love marriage. Every time we take elopement photos in NYC on the streets, or even in this backyard, the couple is met with cheers. Though a backyard isn’t necessarily a traditional venue for a New York wedding ceremony, this intimate wedding felt so natural.

Backyard Wedding Ideas in NYC

The wedding colors were lots of greens, whites, and yellows as the couple decorated with sunflowers. Sheila and Rob’s backyard micro-wedding in Manhattan decked out the small space with string lights and beautiful florals. Although their original wedding plans weren’t exactly what they had in mind, they made it work amazingly in this backyard.

We did a first look with Rob and Sheila in the spot where the ceremony would be held. After that, we took these two out for portraits on the street they’ve spent so much time on. Getting the portraits done before their ceremony allowed these two to enjoy the celebration afterward. They went right from their ceremony into their intimate NYC micro-wedding reception.

With a handful of family and friends at this backyard NYC micro-wedding, these two said their vows with the rest of their guests tuning in via Zoom. We’ve seen many virtual components to NYC elopements lately, so it’s always a joy to find ways to work around the couple’s setup. This wedding day took place before sunset, and the couple was careful to be respectful regarding noise ordinances. Even though a Manhattan backyard isn’t a typical wedding venue, it’s still important to be respectful to neighbors.

Micro-Wedding Planning in New York

After signing the marriage license, Sheila and Rob had a small toast and mingled with close family members. Forgoing a dance floor in favor of a bigger party on a later date, the two ended the celebration with pizza. These two went without a wedding planner for their intimate NYC micro-wedding, something many couples have chosen to do. They went down to the essentials: an elopement photographer (us!) and an officiant. We loved this charming celebration of love for their intimate “big” day.

If you’re planning a New York City micro-wedding, consider how your plans may be impacted based on location and timing. These two held their backyard NYC micro-wedding during the summer on a sunny evening. If you plan to elope in a busier area or a more unpredictable season, consider venues that won’t be as impacted by weather or location changes. We loved photographing Sheila and Rob’s intimate celebration of love and can’t wait to see what the future holds for them!

Planning a Micro-Wedding in New York City?

We’re ready to help with your New York micro-wedding planning. Reach out and let us know what you’re thinking; we’re happy to help! We’ve photographed countless NYC micro-weddings and elopements and know exactly how to handle your celebration.