Celebrating Carly and Paul’s wedding at Cheekwood Botanical Garden was an absolute delight. It was an honor to officiant their wedding and be a part of their beautiful story. I loved working with this super sweet couple and I am excited to be sharing their beautiful wedding with you.

From the moment they met, it was clear that they were destined to be together. Their love story began in a world where swiping right can lead to something more than casual conversation. They are the kind of couple who can find joy in the simplest of moments, whether a cozy night in with a good movie or a spontaneous road trip like the one they took to Las Vegas. It was during this Vegas trip that Paul asked Carly to marry him during an early morning trip to Death Valley National Park, just as the sun was peeking over the mountains and the moon was about to set (talk about timing). They set the date for a Sunday afternoon wedding on Cinco de Mayo their dating anniversary date.

When it came time to plan their wedding, Carly and Paul knew they wanted something magical and personal. They sent me an inquiry, we set up a zoom meeting, discussed our different packages and decided on the ceremony only package that does not include premarital sessions. We met a few times to discuss their vision and progress. Carly and Paul wanted to include a unity ceremony, we decided on a Tree Planting ceremony. Their vision was brought to life in a breathtaking outdoor space, where vibrant flowers, and towering trees created a natural wonderland.

They both prepped for the day with their family and friends and after Carly and Paul had their first look portraits in the garden they also used this moment to privately share their vows to each other. The ceremony took place under the grand archway of the Westeria Arbor at Cheekwood Botanical Garden, quite possible one of the most iconic places in Nashville. Because the wedding was in May the florals and greenery were in full display. As the guests arrived, they were greeted by the enchanting melodies of Southern Strings who set the tone for the day and placed at each seat was a fan, because the temperature was warm and a bag of petals to toss as the couple walked by.

There were several touching moments during the wedding ceremony. One was the grooms special acknowledgement according to his culture for the mother and father of the bride. Then came the love story of two souls who found each other and fell in love. The vows exchanged were heartfelt and personal, capturing the essence of their journey together.

One of my favorite moments of the wedding was the tree planting unity ceremony. Carly and Paul wanted to symbolize their growth together and the roots they were planting. As they placed the soil together, surrounded by their loved ones, it was a powerful reminder of the roots they were laying for their future.

After the ceremony, the celebration of love continued with a reception at Mockingbird that was as lively and joyful as Carly and Paul. The guest enjoyed a delicious sit-down family style meal, flowing drinks and unforgettable dance moves.

The atmosphere was one of pure happiness and love, a perfect reflection of Carly and Paul’s relationship. As a wedding officiant, I have the distinct honor of witnessing many love stories unfold in the most beautiful and heartfelt ways. This wedding was a true celebration of love and I am overjoyed to have been a part of it.

Living Ceremonies, a Nashville and Destination wedding officiant service, that creates wedding ceremonies that last a lifetime. Start yours with a ceremony that reflect your unique bond, unforgettable moments and a celebration of love. Contact Living Ceremonies and let us make your wedding memorable, meaningful and marvelous.

The Creative Team

Officiant: Living Ceremonies

Venue: Cheekwood Botanical Gardens

Wedding Planner: Mirwood

Photographer: Kara Warren Photo

Flowers: Branching Out Event Florist

Music: Southern Strings

Rentals : Please Be Seated

Reception/Caterer: Mockingbird

Content Creator: Serene Content Company

Hair/MUA: Summer Branch Weddings

Dance: Arthur Murray Dance Studio