A Simple Backyard Wedding at a Private Residence in Mary Esther, Florida

Christie, a regional finance supervisor, 26, and Rocky, an elementary school health and P.E. teacher, 25, planned their wedding with a "southern rustic feel" in mind. "We live in Georgia so we know a little something about southern hospitality," says Rocky. The couple rented two private residences in Mary Esther, Florida for their beachfront ceremony and reception. Navy, coral, champagne and white were used as their wedding colors. Christie and Rocky had a first look before they joined their friends and family for the ceremony. While they had seen each other's David's Bridal gowns before, their TOMS wedding shoes were kept secret until their special day. The backyard ceremony was decorated with simple white chairs and hanging glass mason and other glass jars with tea light candles. After they were wed, the couple took advantage of the location's dock and took a few photos with their bridesmaids. Their reception was focused on keeping "our guests feeling at home and relaxed," says Rocky. Lawn games such as a giant Jenga and corn hole were set up for their guests to enjoy during the reception. The couple served a southern buffet complete with pulled pork and macaroni and cheese bites. Bahama Mama was their signature cocktail. As their wedding was out of town, Christie and Rocky made personalized CDs for their 55 friends and family members to enjoy on the car ride home.