Retzer Nature Center Wedding: Julie & Tony!

Julie and Tony are an unconventional couple who were developing an unconventional plan for their Retzer Nature Center wedding when they called us. We had known Julie for years through our work with United Way, so we weren’t surprised when she called with her vision for her wedding. “I picture our wedding to be fun and casual. A gathering of friends and family in celebration that is easy and memorable. I like the idea of an outdoorsy style that’s classic, not cheesy with a sprinkling of traditional. We’ll have a casual dinner with stations rather than a formal sit-down. We’re also renting the fire pit so that we can have a campfire and S’mores.”  Casual?  Memorable?  S’Mores?  Count us in!

Julie and Tony did a fantastic job of realizing their vision. While we had spent time there before, we’d never had a Retzer Nature Center wedding before. Blessed with a beautiful day, guests had a chance to really enjoy the grounds. There was also a special presentation in the planetarium as well as the aforementioned fire pit.

Thinking back on the day, Julie had a long list of favorite memories.  “Having my mom and best friend put on my veil – which was my mother’s veil, before the ceremony.  Seeing my best friend Tim, also the officiant, get choked up when we were getting choked up.  The awkward kiss I gave Tony after I walked down the aisle when I wasn’t supposed to kiss him (cause we’re just awkward that way).  Hearing guest’s reactions during our ceremony, laughing, saying ‘Aw,’ and even the silence when everyone was listening made it feel so intimate.  Taking a 20 minute break from everything to sit down and enjoy our planetarium show.  Dancing with my dad – and then dancing with my family to ‘Funky Cold Medina’.  The photo booth and having those pictures to look at right away!”

As for advice for future brides, Julie was succinct:  “Hire a good photographer 😉 It’s true what they say about blinking and the day is gone. At one point I looked around, it was dark outside, a lot of the guests had left and I wondered where the day went! It’s been such a wonderful thing to have photos to look back on to see what everyone was doing while we were being a bride and groom! I can’t wait to see them all!”

These beautiful flowers were from Wood Violet Floral Design!

Sweet Tooth Bakery made this amazing pie!