Summer Wedding at the Tulsa Botanic Garden

I believe that we meet everyone in this life for a reason. Christina and Doug…I met for a reason.

This past April, I went through the most difficult time in my life as I experienced the sudden loss of my mother. The day after my mother passed away, there was an email in my inbox from Christina about photographing their summer wedding at the Tulsa Botanic Garden. As I read through her email, and we chatted back and forth, I knew that there was a reason. Christina told me that she and Doug were huge plant people, which my mom was a plant lover also (to some it may be a coincidence, but to me it was a sign). Not only that, but I had been referred to Christina by one of her bridesmaids. She had completely forgotten about that referral until the day after my mom had passed. I knew once she had told me all of this that we had come together for a reason. Over the next several months, I had the pleasure of getting to know Doug and Christina and they’ll never know how much photographing their wedding meant to me.

The Proposal

Christina and Doug were brought together by the pandemic. After only a few dates, they both came down with COVID and decided to quarantine together. The two weeks of quarantine turned into a lifetime of love for Doug and Christina. On a trip to Italy for their anniversary, Doug decided that he was ready to ask Christina to be his wife. His plan was to get down on one knee on their gondola ride – a romantic, and picturesque proposal for sure. However, the little boats aren’t easy to maneuver on, so he opted for the big question in front of one of the oldest churches in Italy. Christina’s absolute answer was followed by applause from hundreds of onlookers that had been nearby.

The Vendors

Christina and Doug’s summer wedding at the Tulsa Botanic Garden was absolute magic. Although the hottest day of the summer, the vendors for the Coker wedding came together to make it perfect. Elly, with Mary Fencl Events, orchestrated the whole day beautifully. She was attentive to details and made sure the day flowed together smoothly. Penelope and Lu created the most beautiful floral designs to match the terracotta and sage color scheme of this summer wedding. Christina had an amazing glam team on her side – Pretty and Posh did beautiful loose curls accentuated with a braid and a natural makeup look. Christina’s dress was purchased at Facchiano’s, while the wedding party attire was from Birdy Grey.

Their Wedding Day

The wedding day was perfect in its own way. Although blistering outside, Christina and Doug said their vows in front of their family and friends. The two of them were excited for the two families to become intertwined into one. They had a delicious dinner catered by Ludger’s, followed by the party of a lifetime featuring Pierre-Louis Entertainment. Their reception was filled with good drinks, polaroids, and a mini mosh pit on the dance floor. I was fortunate enough to see Doug and Christina again in October when I photographed one of her bridesmaid’s wedding. I love being able to see my couples again once married life has started. I’m so happy for Doug and Christina, and the family that they have become. Here’s to many more amazing years together!