The couple sits on the ground in a grassy field. The person in the white dress leans their head on the other's shoulder, and both look relaxed and serene.

An Outdoor DIY Wedding at Little Hills

Katelyn (she/her) and Leah (she/her) met during their senior year of college and haven’t looked back since. Their wedding at Little Hills in San Ramon, California, was a blend of nature inspired elements and personal touches. There were even some DIY elements that made the day feel uniquely them. 

How did you two meet, and how long have you been together?

We met during our senior year of college, just seven months before graduation. We both felt an instant connection and decided to give it a real go, even with graduation looming. That was over five years ago, and we’re still going strong​.

Can you tell us about your engagement story?

We both wanted to propose, so we did it twice! I (Katelyn) proposed first in March 2020, despite having to shift my plans due to COVID. I set up a day filled with Leah’s favorite things, ending with a proposal at our favorite state park – at 24°! Later that year, 

Leah surprised me with a special dinner at home, complete with candles, flowers, and a slow dance before asking me to marry her. It was perfect​.

Why did you choose Little Hills as your wedding venue?

We’re both from Northern California, so we wanted to stay close to home. Little Hills felt like the perfect fit with its natural, outdoor vibe. We even spotted deer during our venue tour and on the wedding day, which felt like a good sign​!

What inspired the theme and vibe of your wedding?

We wanted a timeless look – something we’d still love when looking back on photos years from now. It was also important that the day felt personal and intimate, really highlighting our relationship and personalities​.

Two ring boxes sit side by side on a wooden surface. One box is light green and holds a green gemstone ring with a matching band below it. The other box is navy blue and holds a solitaire diamond ring with a matching diamond band below it. Wedding invitations are partially visible in the background.
A pair of sparkly silver pointed heels with rhinestone straps are positioned next to brown leather brogue shoes, resting on a patterned rug.
A person in a navy suit is adjusting their belt while smiling, captured indoors with natural light streaming in from the window behind them.
A person in an off-shoulder white wedding dress is getting ready, with another individual’s hands fastening the buttons along the back of the dress.
The couple stands back-to-back outdoors, holding hands. One is in a navy suit, and the other is in a white wedding dress. They are surrounded by tall grass and trees in the background.
The couple shares a playful moment outdoors, with one bending slightly forward and reaching out, while the other holds their hand, smiling.
The couple is walking hand-in-hand through a grassy area. One is leaning in close, whispering into the other’s ear, both smiling.
The couple is surrounded by their wedding party, all smiling for the camera. The wedding party holds floral bouquets with greenery and white flowers.
An outdoor ceremony arch decorated with soft pink drapery and pastel-colored florals, set among tall trees and dappled sunlight.
A table centerpiece featuring glass vases with white and blush roses, surrounded by greenery, candles, and glass water bottles, arranged on a white tablecloth.
A round reception table set with a blush-colored runner, greenery, candles, and simple floral arrangements. Pink cloth napkins are neatly folded beside the plates and silverware.
A white, three-tiered wedding cake with smooth frosting, adorned with pink and white roses, green leaves, and a clear topper with a minimalist design of the couple’s initials.
A guest book setup on a wooden barrel, featuring a wooden 'Guest Book' sign tied with burlap. The setup includes a partially filled guest book with instant photo prints.
A seating chart display labeled 'Find Your Seat,' showing seating assignments for different locations, such as Sunnyvale and San Diego. The chart is decorated with blush and white florals at the top and bottom.

Tell us about the DIY elements that brought your day to life.

We took on almost everything, from making the signs and arranging flowers to creating the invitations and the guestbook. Leah even made alterations to her dress, which I only found out about afterward​!

How did you find your wedding outfits?

I’ve had a great experience with SuitShop in the past, so I went with them for my suit. It’s an LGBTQ-friendly brand, and I loved the navy suit I chose. Leah found her dress in Bozeman after several trips; when she found the one, it was clear by how she glowed​.

What were your favorite moments from the big day?

For me (Katelyn), it was our first look. I could see the stress melt away from Leah’s face, and we got to share a private moment before the ceremony. For Leah, the reception stood out. Being surrounded by so many loved ones celebrating with us was incredibly meaningful​.

Any advice for couples currently planning their wedding?

Be patient and kind to each other. Wedding planning can be stressful, but it’s worth it in the end. Also, consider adding private moments just for the two of you throughout the day, it helps slow down the blur of it all.

A black-and-white close-up of the couple holding hands, with the person in a white dress leading the person in a dark suit.
The couple shares a joyful embrace during their first dance on an outdoor dance floor, with string lights and trees in the background.
The couple stands in an open field surrounded by rolling hills, sharing a kiss against a backdrop of golden hour light.
The couple stands closely together in a grassy field, with one person kissing the other's forehead. The scene is framed by tall grass and trees.
The couple sits on the ground in a grassy field. The person in the white dress leans their head on the other's shoulder, and both look relaxed and serene.
A close-up of the couple with foreheads gently touching, eyes closed, showing soft expressions and a sense of intimacy.
A black-and-white photo captures two individuals walking hand-in-hand through a grassy field. One wears a tailored suit, and the other is dressed in an off-the-shoulder gown.
A close-up shot of two hands intertwined, showcasing engagement rings—one featuring a green gemstone and the other a diamond. A wristwatch with a brown leather band is also visible.
Guests, including children and adults, dance energetically on a patio under string lights during the reception. A tent with an open side serves as the backdrop.
A two-tier white wedding cake adorned with pink and white roses sits on a decorated table with surrounding candles and greenery. A custom acrylic cake topper features the couple's initials.
The couple shares a kiss during a nighttime send-off as guests form a circle around them, raising cell phones to create a glowing effect in the dark. The bride's off-the-shoulder gown and the partner's navy suit are clearly visible.

Photography by Kaitlin Jean Photography

Caterer Elisa’s Catering
Ceremony Venue Little Hills Events
Engagement Rings Earth’s Treasury
Suit Designer Suit Shop
Videographer La Luna Pro

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