Ryan and Casey’s garden wedding at Belvedere House and Gardens was a celebration of love, history, and hard work. As the first couple to say “I do” at their newly restored venue, they turned their passion for preservation into a breathtaking backdrop for their big day. From the lush gardens and historic charm to the personal touches woven throughout, their wedding was a true reflection of their journey together.
The Proposal
Ryan and Casey’s love story began online, but their proposal was straight out of a storybook.
During a birthday trip to New York City, Ryan carried a Cartier Tank watch for days, waiting for the perfect moment. “I was so nervous about getting mugged or caught in a metal detector at the Empire State Building,” Ryan jokes.
The moment finally came in Central Park, under a magnolia tree by Bethesda Fountain. “He told me he had one more birthday gift for me,” Casey says. “And then he asked me to marry him.”
The couple later planted a magnolia tree at Belvedere Gardens to commemorate the moment.
Planning a Garden Wedding While Restoring a Venue
Belvedere House began as a historic estate in desperate need of care, built by a 19th-century ship captain who once helmed the largest shipping vessel in the U.S. For Ryan and Casey, it was love at first sight. The couple spent years restoring the home and transforming its grounds into something extraordinary: two acres of blooming gardens, cascading streams, a stone temple, and a grand fountain.
“As we worked, it became clear this was more than just a home. It was meant to be shared,” Casey reflects.
Unlike most couples who focus on guest lists and floral arrangements, Ryan and Casey had an entirely different to-do list: buying commercial kitchen equipment, restoring a historic horse barn for cocktail hour, and finding hundreds of chairs.
“It was a race to the finish line,” Casey laughs. “I still had paint on my hands the morning of the wedding.”
But their hard work paid off, with the property providing the perfect backdrop for their garden formal celebration.
A Day to Remember
The ceremony took place in the heart of the garden, where guests were surrounded by lush greenery and the calming sounds of the cascading stream. The couple’s black-and-white dress code elevated the proceedings, while the outdoor setting kept things relaxed and fun.
“There’s something magical about a garden wedding. It feels elegant, but everyone’s comfortable—kicking off their shoes, spilling wine, and just enjoying the moment,” Casey says.
The reception was held under a tent on the lawn, where Ryan and Casey danced the night away with their loved ones.
Personal Moments That Made Their Garden Wedding Special
As the night wound down, one moment captured the essence of their day. Back in the parlor with a small group of close friends, Ryan and Casey shared a quiet, joyful moment.
“We were both in our ball caps—his said ‘GROOM,’ of course—and I was nestled into his chest. It was the happiest I’ve ever been,” Casey shares. “It’s one of my favorite photos because it’s just us, exactly where we dreamed we’d be.”
The photo also features the couple’s special gifts to each other: Casey’s Cartier engagement watch and Ryan’s Tiffany wedding band, small but meaningful symbols of their journey together.
Ryan & Casey’s Wedding Advice
- Prioritize what matters. “Choose three key elements—venue, food, a special moment—and focus your energy there.”
- Make it personal. “Your wedding should reflect you as a couple. Don’t stress about trends; make it your own.”
- Enjoy the day! “Once the formalities are over, let go and have fun. It’s your day—soak it all in!”
Ryan and Casey’s wedding at Belvedere House wasn’t just a celebration of their love—it was a testament to their vision and hard work. Now, they’re thrilled to welcome other couples to create their own unforgettable moments in this one-of-a-kind venue.
Venue: Belvedere House and Gardens | Photographer: Chelsea Diane Photography | Florals: Honeysuckle Way | Entertainment: Unforgettable Entertainment | Catering: Laura Cabot Catering | Dessert: Bear Brook Bakery | Hair: The Hair Garden | Invitations & Paper Goods: Rivertown Press & Paperie | Video: Fox and Sparrow Films | Ceremony Musicians: Seacoast Ceremonial Music
If you loved Ryan & Casey’s garden wedding at Belvedere House, you’ll adore the inspiration in the latest issue of Evergreen Weddings Magazine! From real weddings to expert tips and dreamy venue features, it’s everything you need to plan a wedding as unique as your love story. Click here to purchase our latest issue.
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