A 50-Year Love Story: A Backyard Anniversary Reception in Boulder, Colorado
Some gatherings feel less like an event and more like a reunion of hearts—and this backyard reception for Nanette and Mike was exactly that. They were celebrating 50 years of marriage with a full vow renewal weekend, starting with a Friday night reception that honored their history and the community they’ve built together. Friends flew in from all over the country, family filled every corner of the yard, and the energy was relaxed, joyful, and deeply meaningful. Photographing this felt like being welcomed into something very special.
Why a backyard reception in June worked so well
Hosting the reception in their son Andrew and daughter-in-law Ellory’s backyard made everything feel personal and unpretentious. June afternoons in Colorado offer that perfect balance—warm light, long conversations, and golden hour that invites people to linger. As the sun lowered, guests moved easily between mingling, music, and dinner, without the formality that can sometimes come with traditional venues.
Styling and planning tips inspired by this celebration
Nanette and Mike chose a western theme to mirror the Friday night reception they had 50 years ago, and it gave the evening such a cohesive, playful feel. If you’re planning an anniversary or milestone celebration, leaning into a theme tied to your own story can be incredibly grounding. Comfortable seating, family-style dining, and live music encouraged connection rather than a rigid schedule—something I always recommend for events centered around togetherness.
A moment that stayed with me
Before dinner, Nanette and Mike’s sons and their families gathered everyone for Shabbat candle lighting and blessings. The yard went quiet in a way that felt intentional and reverent. Later, during cocktail hour, the grandkids—decked out in their western outfits—gravitated toward the local band, dancing and watching the musicians with total curiosity and joy. It was one of those scenes where generations naturally overlap, without anyone trying to make it “a moment.”
On a personal note, this was also my first photography job back after welcoming my son just two weeks earlier. Being surrounded by a couple celebrating 50 years of marriage, family continuity, and deep-rooted love felt especially grounding.
Planning a celebration of your own?
This kind of coverage is perfect for anniversary parties, milestone birthdays, engagement parties, celebrations of life, or any gathering where the people matter more than the production. If you’re planning something meaningful and want it documented in a calm, thoughtful way, I’d love to connect.
—Kelly Bonnez Photography
