Backyard Wedding in Queenstown - Chris & Claire

Chris and Claire are good friends of mine who, when they asked if I wanted to capture their backyard prom-themed garden ceremony entirely on a collection of their old 35mm film cameras, I almost fell off my chair. It was an easy fuck yes.

Part i. Home session

The day before the backyard wedding, I popped over to Chris and Claire’s house to take some couple portraits with them. The light hit their living room and set softly on the Queenstown Mountains, and we talked about life and dreams and got excited about the day that followed.

Part ii. Chris and Claire’s Epic Backyard Garden Wedding in Queenstown: Captured on 35mm Film

Picture this: a gorgeous backyard garden wedding in Queenstown, New Zealand, shot on classic 35mm film. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s them. Let’s dive into their love story and see how their unique day unfolded!

Five years ago, Claire hosted a live storytelling event with her best friends, and Chris was chilling at home. He got a call to help with the soundboard at Yonder, where he worked. A quick trip down, a chat with Claire backstage, and bam! Claire knew she’d met her future husband.

Chris and Claire wanted their wedding to reflect who they were. They ditched the traditional route and made every decision with intention. Their celebration was split into two parts, each with its vibe but equally unique.

Cozy Backyard Garden Party

The first part was an intimate garden party in their backyard, surrounded by Queenstown’s stunning mountains. It was all about close friends and heartfelt moments. Claire and her girlfriends got their DIY on, setting everything up themselves. Instead of a guest book, they had vintage postcards for guests to write notes on, which they’ll read on their first anniversary.

Part iii. Retro Prom Night at Yonder

Then, they took the party to Yonder, where it all began. Over 130 friends joined them for a retro prom night with a “Written in the Stars” theme. Everyone dressed up, the bar was decked out like an American prom, and it was pure, goofy fun all night.

Capturing the Magic on Film

Chris and Claire wanted their wedding captured entirely on 35mm film. The film added a timeless, authentic feel to every shot. Friends and family raved about how perfectly the photos captured the day’s essence. There’s something so special about film, it’s nostalgic, beautiful, and unique, and I can’t wait to shoot more!

Their dream day wouldn’t have been possible without some fantastic vendors. The beautiful flowers were by The Flower Room, Claires stunning gowns came from House of CB and Salt and Funk; and Chris looked sharp in his suit from Hockerty. And of Course Yonder was the perfect spot for their epic prom night.

Chris and Claire’s wedding was the perfect mix of intimate and fun. Every detail reflected their love and personalities, from the cozy garden party to the wild retro prom. Shooting the whole thing on 35mm film just added to the magic, making the photos timeless treasures.

If you’re planning a wedding and want something unique and personal, take a page from Chris and Claire’s book. And if you’re looking for a photographer to capture your special day, check out our portfolio and get in touch. We’d love to help make your wedding dreams come true!