Modern & exceptional wedding photography.

Michelle Whitley captured this Mississippi backyard tented wedding in April 2025. Michelle Whitley is a Mississippi wedding photographer available for weddings and portraits throughout Brandon, Memphis, and beyond.

An Intimate Celebration

Mary Anna and Richie’s Mississippi backyard tented wedding in Brandon was intimate, elegant, and full of Southern charm. Hosted at Mary Anna’s childhood home, the celebration felt deeply personal from start to finish. With a small guest list of immediate family and a few close friends, the day focused on connection, sentiment, and family traditions.

To begin the day, the couple shared a romantic first look and portraits beside a quiet lake in the neighbor’s backyard. Soft moss, gentle shade, and shimmering water created a peaceful setting for this private moment. Mary Anna even designed her own engagement ring and wedding bands through her company, Eleven Collection—talk about personal sparkle!

Later, the ceremony took place beneath the trees as a string quartet from Babcock String Studio played elegant music. As Mary Anna and Richie recessed down the aisle, guests tossed flower petals, creating a joyful and romantic scene. This moment truly captured the heart of their Mississippi backyard tented wedding.

A Tented Reception

After the ceremony, guests moved beneath a stunning tent from Great Southern Events. There, planner OAK Experience Weddings & Events transformed the backyard into a refined garden celebration. Additionally, lush florals and months of lovingly collected greenery by Mary Anna came to life through Fresh Cut Catering & Floral. A long family table, reserved for immediate family, featured monogrammed napkins hand-embroidered by a close friend—a thoughtful and sentimental touch.

For dinner, guests enjoyed delicious food by C. Ellison Catering. Soon after, they indulged in a two-flavor cake from That Special Touch featuring both classic white and rich chocolate layers. Meanwhile, Richie was surprised with a groom’s table filled with brownies and ice cream. Finally, with beauty by Golden Girls Glam, videography by Amelia Catherine & Co., and photography by Michelle Whitley Photography, this Mississippi backyard tented wedding was timeless, heartfelt, and unforgettable.

Vendor Team

Planning: OAK Experience Weddings & Events
Photographer: Michelle Whitley
Videographer: Amelia Catherine & Co.
Florals: Fresh Cut
Catering: C. Ellison Catering
Tent: Great Southern MS
Cake: That Special Touch
Hair & Makeup: Golden Girls Glam
Bride’s Gown: Bridal Path
Groom’s Attire: Tuxes Too
Ceremony Music: Babcock String Studio

Click here to view Mary Anna & Richie’s downtown Jackson engagement session at the Mississippi Capitol!