were in bloom. Gardens can also be modified or created if necessary. For example, a lawn bordered with lovely landscaping in the perimeter beds can be the scene of many a splendid ceremony. Green grass is the perfect pad for rows of chairs neatly lined before the altar area. Remember that you will need a level bit of ground large enough for your ceremony. How much space will be enough? It is common to allow 8 to 10 square feet per person for a ceremony. If you are having a served meal and want space for a dance floor, then plan to allow 13 to 15 square feet per person. (Dance floors usually require three square feet per person.) I’ve planned weddings in the height of spring and summer when the plants are at their peaks, but I’ve also designed many a ceremony in early spring when the surrounding bushes are mere twigs and not much more. In these cases, we’ve festooned the bare branches with yards and yards of ribbons, dozens of tiny floral nosegays or even dozens of twinkle lights for an evening ceremony. When in bloom, though, these seasons each provide varying visual interests. In late March and early April, you’ll find white and purple crocuses announcing that spring is at hand. Bold yellow will also be everywhere as forsythia shrubs burst forth. Tulips, everyone’s favorite, will of course be upstaging other dormant plants. The later months will bring hydrangeas, peonies, and blooming trees aplenty. Note especially the dogwood trees in April, so loved here in Charlottesville that we host a Dogwood Festival and Parade. Visit Charlottesville’s many gardens and outdoor areas as potential sites for your wedding. Some sites to consider for a traditional garden setting include the UVA gardens, local country clubs and the historic homes of Jefferson, Madison and Monroe — to name a few. For a more rustic retreat, consider our area’s ski resorts or B&Bs, or one of the many parks on Skyline Drive, including Big Meadows.
flower which turns into fruit at marriage. Love is a
— Finnish proverb