A Garden Wedding at Christiansons Nursery

I’m currently sitting in South Carolina at the beautiful Hotel Domestique for a three-day photography workshop with Lauren Fair, ending the year with a bang and investing a little deeper into my education. Even after 11 years in business, I’m constantly reminded that there is always something new to learn—new ways to see light, new ways to serve my clients, and new ways to tell a love story with more intention and artistry. Sitting here, looking back over this past season, one couple in particular comes to mind. They had an unforgettable garden wedding at Christiansons Nursery, reflecting their tender love story.

Like so many couples this year, they had to postpone and completely rethink their original wedding plans. The big celebration they once imagined didn’t happen exactly the way they thought it would, but it absolutely didn’t stop them from having the wedding of their dreams. Instead, they found the most charming venue in Mount Vernon, Washington—Christianson’s Nursery & Greenhouse—a darling historic spot tucked among gardens and greenhouses, full of character and warmth. It was the perfect place for a more intimate celebration and a smaller wedding party. This is how you scale a wedding well, friends. They didn’t try to recreate a “big” wedding on a smaller scale; instead, they leaned into the intimacy of the day and focused on meaningful details, which is why a garden wedding at Christiansons Nursery would be a perfect choice. They thought of everything: sweet wooden chairs arranged thoughtfully for their guests, carefully chosen décor that felt like them, and even grandma’s antique silverware at the table, which added this beautiful sense of history and legacy. The couple also included personal touches, such as framed photos of their families displayed throughout the venue and lots of elegant antique touches. Every detail felt intentional and personal, and it made the whole day feel cozy, romantic, and deeply connected to their families. Christianson’s itself is just gorgeous—lush, green, and overflowing with plants and flowers, with little tucked-away corners that are a dream to photograph. Between the vintage charm of the buildings and the soft light filtering through the greenhouse windows, it created the most magical backdrop for their day. If you’re in need of plants, inspiration, or a unique venue that’s perfect for a smaller, heartfelt celebration, I can’t recommend Christianson’s Nursery & Greenhouse enough. It’s proof that even when plans change, your wedding can still be every bit as beautiful and meaningful—maybe even more so.

Reflecting on their special day, I can’t help but think about how a garden wedding at Christiansons Nursery provided the perfect atmosphere for their love story. It was an event that celebrated not just their union but the values of community, family, and friendship. Their journey through planning a wedding during uncertain times transformed into a beautiful celebration, reminding us all that love can indeed blossom in the most unexpected places.

To enhance the experience, live music played softly in the background, allowing guests to reminisce and share stories while enjoying the beautiful surroundings. The couple even took the time to share a dance beneath the stars, enveloped in the beauty of their garden wedding at Christiansons Nursery, which left a lasting impression on everyone present.

As the sun set, the warm glow of string lights illuminated the space, casting a romantic ambiance that encouraged laughter and celebration. The couple had selected a menu filled with their favorite dishes, which brought a personal touch to the meal. Guests enjoyed the flavors that represented the couple’s journey together, from appetizers to dessert. The cake, adorned with fresh flowers from the venue, became a centerpiece that everyone admired before they indulged in a slice.

The reception that followed was equally tender and enchanting. Guests mingled among the flower-laden tables, each arrangement telling its own story. The couple chose seasonal flowers, which not only reflected their love for nature but also contributed to the overall aesthetic of their garden wedding at Christiansons Nursery. The beautiful blooms complemented the lush greenery, creating an idyllic scene that felt both intimate and grand.

As I captured the tender moments of their day, I witnessed the beauty in their vows, spoken under the dappled sunlight filtering through the trees at Christianson’s. The couple chose to write their own vows, which added a deeply personal touch, allowing them to express their love and commitment in their own words. This choice resonated with their guests, creating a heartfelt atmosphere filled with emotional connections. It reminded me of the power of words during a wedding ceremony and how they can enrich the experience for everyone involved.

One of the most memorable parts from this wedding was the washing of their feet. Foot washing symbolizes humility, service and love, particularly through the example of Jesus washing his disciples’ feet. It represents a willingness to humble oneself to serve others and can also signify spiritual cleansing or a commitment to stand by one another. Historically, it was an act of hospitality, but Jesus elevated it to a spiritual practice for his followers to emulate a life of service and sacrificial love. This beautiful act during their ceremony not only deepened their connection as a couple but also served as a touching reminder to their guests of the importance of love and service in their lives.