Julia and Brandon’s Morris Arboretum wedding in Philadelphia was a beautiful blend of nature, love, and a touch of whimsy. Staying true to their casual nature, the couple started the day off in downtown Philly with a sweet and intimate first look in the apartment they share together. Their dog, Shiro, was dressed in his best and after posing for a few photos he was ready to send his mom and dad off to say “I Do.”
Despite a steady mist, the couple’s spirits—and everyone else’s—stayed high. For the ceremony, Julia and Brandon ditched the cover and faced the rain together, which made vows even more romantic (and badass). Thanks to JKO Beauty and Jay Michael Salon, it’s hard to tell just how much it was raining but just take our word for it (and the sea of umbrellas the guests held), it was wet! The florals were as vibrant as their personalities, with massive arrangements of warm-toned blooms and blue and white accents, adding pops of color to the lush greenery around them. The couple kept their wedding party small and sweet with just their sisters, which felt like a perfect reflection of their quiet, laid-back energy.
With perfect timing, a full double rainbow made its appearance just as Julia and Brandon’s Morris Arboretum wedding ceremony ended. They took a moment to themselves in the light sunshower to simply soak it all in.
Afterward, guests made their way to the “out on a limb” cocktail hour, a definite highlight of Morris Arboretum. Guests mingled on the treetop walkways at the arboretum, sipping cocktails and nibbling on appetizers as they took in the breathtaking views of the trees around them. The “Shiro’s Bar” sign over the cocktail area was a sweet little touch, giving a nod to the couple’s dog. It was these little details that made the day feel so personal and intimate.
The colorful Morris Arboretum wedding reception accents played off of the flower-filled arboretum with a wall of bud vases holding cheerful orange, pink, yellow, and white flowers, each with a guest’s name tag attached. The tables in the tented reception were a garden in themselves, with vibrant flowers in bud vases scattered along crisp white linens, and peach taper candles adding a soft glow between the blooms. The ceiling of the tent featured lush greenery and floral accents, along with boho rattan chandeliers that gave the space a dreamy, almost ethereal feel.
As the night went on, there were speeches that made everyone laugh (and shed a few happy tears), followed by some serious dancing. Julia changed into a short celestial dress and white sneakers, which was the perfect move for someone who just wanted to dance the night away to some Taylor Swift hits. It was a wedding that, despite the rain, felt like sunshine—filled with love, laughter, and so many beautiful moments. Julia and Brandon’s day was truly their own, and it was an absolute joy to be part of.
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Venue: Morris Arboretum and Gardens
Florals: We Are Wildflowers
Coordinator: The Styled Stem
Caterer: Power Events Catering
Hair: Jay Michael Salon
Makeup: JKO Beauty