bride and groom smile big as they walk down the aisle together during their intimate backyard wedding in los gatos, california, captured by bay area wedding photographer poppy and vine

Jen & Johno are some of the most adventurous people I’ve ever met, and I’ve learned they’re not the type for a big production.

An intimate setting for their wedding was the ideal scenario for these two, and boy was it just stunning.

Jen & Johno met in high school, they were on the cross country team together, though nothing other than a simple friendship came from these days. However, at a party the summer after their freshman year of college, the two reconnected, and this time there was a different connection. Though they were young and unsure of what was to come (Jen’s answer when Johno asked her to be his girlfriend was something along the lines of “yes, maybe, I don’t know!”), they began dating with the intention of pursuing each other.

I’m happy to share that twelve years later, to the day, we all gathered in Johno’s parents backyard to witness these two being married. It worked out beautifully for these two-twelve years of growing up together and going on all kinds of wild adventures and tackling life by the other’s side. Just before covid began, the two went on one of their classic adventures to Machu Picchu and got engaged. What a story!

This bright June day was a picture perfect morning for a wedding in Los Gatos- the weather was warm and the light cast a perfect, vibrant glow on the lush backyard. When I arrived, Johno and his soon-to-be brother in law Sebastian were putting the finishing touches on their triangle wedding arch, while Jen and their dog Beau were getting ready together. I received the warmest welcome from both of their families, and I knew immediately we were in for the perfect morning together!

Jen’s sister, Priscilla, and her husband Sebastian officiated the wedding, and Beau was the trusty ring bearer. Jen and Johno shared personal vows, both of them recounting the uncertain moment when they began dating, and how twelve years later they were both more than certain they wanted to spend the rest of their lives together :’)

After their ceremony, we all gathered in the shade for some family photos (this backyard was a DREAM to shoot in!!), and then huddled on the patio while Jen & Johno’s family toasted to the rest of their life together as one. There were so many tears and laughs and hugs, and boy was it an honor to be a part of. After all the fun ended, the family all headed off to Campo di Bocce for lunch and more celebrations!

Keep scrolling to see how Jen & Johno transformed this lush Los Gatos backyard into the perfect poolside setting for their intimate wedding ceremony. And if you like ring bearing dogs, this is a gallery you don’t want to miss :)