A Cozy Lord of the Rings-Inspired Backyard Wedding in Southern California | Colin + Kristen
Stepping into Colin and Kristen’s Lord of the Rings-inspired backyard wedding felt like entering a cozy 111th Birthday Party in Hobbiton. Hosted in the bride’s childhood backyard, their wedding embraced nature, nostalgia, and their shared love for storytelling. Every detail, from the autumnal wildflowers to the glow of the string lights covering a proud old tree, was crafted with intention, creating a day that was both deeply personal and enchantingly whimsical.
THEIR ENGAGEMENT: Colin and Kristen’s Griffith Park engagement session was the stuff of storybooks.
Colin and Kristen’s wedding was a perfect reflection of who they are—imaginative, warm-hearted, and deeply connected to the things that matter most. Please enjoy a selection from their Lord of the Rings-inspired backyard wedding in Southern California below.
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A Backyard Wedding Full of Heart and Hobbit Charm
Rather than choosing a traditional wedding venue, Kristen and Colin decided to say their vows at Kristen’s childhood home in Camarillo, allowing them to put their budget toward updating and transforming a space that means something to them. Every detail reflected their love for nature and storytelling, from the handcrafted wedding arch covered it autumn florals to the hidden mushrooms tucked throughout the backyard. A welcome sign reading “A Long Expected Party” set the tone for the day, while string lights, a s’mores station, and a faerie village under the trees was the literal definition of cozy and whimsical. Guests could sip drinks from the outdoor bar, watch classic films projected under the stars, or simply enjoy the warmth of the fire pit as the night went on.
An Emotional First Look in the Faerie Nook
Kristen and Colin shared their first look in a tucked-away corner of the backyard that is home to the faerie nook. The moment was already filled with anticipation and excitement, but Kristen had a heartfelt surprise—her bouquet carried a tag from their beloved dog who passed away, a beautiful moment of reflection and emotion ahead of the celebrations.
A Ceremony Led by Family | Southern California Wedding Photographers
In the warm afternoon sun, Kristen’s father officiated their wedding ceremony, making the moment even more special. Friends and family gathered on the lawn to witness the couple exchange vows in a setting that felt personal and full of love.
A Playful and Lively Cocktail Hour | Los Angeles Wedding Photos
Cocktail hour was as fun as it was unique, featuring a dress-up station photo booth, chickens and ducks, and plenty of drinks and food to go around—I’d expect no less from a hobbit wedding. The couple brought in a local Mexican restaurant El Capitan Fresh Mexican Grill and Seafood to cater dinner, serving up delicious food that reflected their laid-back, community-focused approach to their wedding festivities.
Dancing Under the Stars | Outdoor Wedding Reception
As the night fell, the backyard transformed into a lively celebration, with string lights twinkling above the dance floor and guests dancing well into the night. With the stars above and the warmth of family and friends all around, Colin and Kristen’s wedding wasn’t just a celebration—it was an experience, a gathering filled with the kind of magic that makes a wedding truly unforgettable.
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LORD OF THE RINGS-THEMED BACKYARD WEDDING PHOTOS | CREDITS >>
Photography | Pamela Tatz Photography, Los Angeles wedding photographer
Catering | El Capitan Fresh Mexican Grill and Seafood
Groom’s suit | StudioSuits
PHOTO TEAM >>
Lead photographer | Pamela Tatz
Second photographer | Melissa Baxter
HI THERE, I’M PAMELA!
I’m the owner and lead photographer at Pamela Tatz Photography, a Los Angeles wedding photography studio specializing in documenting love stories authentically and candidly.
With timeless, true-to-color aesthetic and a warm, feelings-first approach, my goal is to create photos that are honest, nostalgic, and truly reflect your day, such as these photos from a Lord of the Rings-inspired backyard wedding in Southern California.
