A Romantic Celebration at One of Orlando’s Most Beautiful Garden Venues

There is just something special about a Harry P. Leu Gardens wedding. Maybe it’s the lush gardens, maybe it’s how peaceful everything feels, or maybe it’s because intimate weddings let couples truly make the day their own. Whatever it is, Nix and Stephen’s wedding was definitley a good one.

These two filled their day with meaningful details and little moments that perfectly reflected who they are.

A First Look in the Rose Garden

Even though they spent the morning together, they saved seeing each other in their wedding attire for a private first look in the Rose Garden. It was the sweetest moment and gave them a chance to slow down before the ceremony.

One of my favorite details was Nix’s grandmother’s pearl necklace from the 1950s, a beautiful way to have someone so important with her on such a meaningful day. Their matching wedding bands, hand embroidered vow books that read Mr. & Mrs. Silly Goose, and handfasting cord all made the day feel incredibly personal.

A Ceremony That Felt Like Them

This ceremony had everyone smiling from start to finish.

Nix walked down the aisle to a string quartet version of the Jurassic Park theme song, their officiant kicked things off with a quote from The Princess Bride, and they exchanged personal vows before literally tying the knot during a handfasting ceremony.

As they walked back down the aisle, guests filled the garden with bubbles, making for such a fun and happy exit

Ending the Day with a Little Fun

Instead of a big reception, Nix and Stephen shared a private first dance in the gardens (which I played for them from my phone!) before climbing into their adorable vintage style VW electric bus with friends for some playful Scooby Doo inspired photos. It was the perfect ending to a day that never took itself too seriously.

Is a 4 Hour Wedding Package Enough?

One question I get all the time is whether four hours is enough coverage for a micro wedding, and for celebrations like this, the answer is absolutely. Together with Nix and Stephen, we intentionally planned a relaxed timeline that focused on what mattered most to them: getting ready, a private first look, their ceremony, portraits with family and friends, and a few fun moments before heading off in their getaway bus. They skipped the parts of a traditional wedding that didn’t feel like “them,” which meant we could fully document every meaningful moment without needing a full day of photography.

Planning an Intimate Wedding at Harry P. Leu Gardens?

If you’re planning a Harry P. Leu Gardens wedding, an Orlando micro wedding, or an intimate garden celebration, this venue is one of my absolute favorites! Between the beautiful gardens, peaceful atmosphere, and endless photo locations, it’s hard to go wrong.

If you’re looking for an Orlando intimate wedding photographer who will help you feel comfortable, keep things relaxed, and capture all the moments that matter, I would LOVE to be part of your day.

Vendor Team

Venue: Harry P. Leu Gardens, North Orlando/Winter Park

Groom Custom Suit: Tweeds

Hair & Makeup: Haley Finegan Hair and Makeup

Florals: Flower Girl Designs

Planning Your Own Intimate Wedding?

If there’s one thing I hope you take away from Nix and Stephen’s day, it’s that your wedding doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. Whether it’s handwritten vows, a private first dance, a Jurassic Park processional, or a getaway bus full of your favorite people, the best weddings are the ones that feel like you.

If you’re planning an intimate wedding, micro wedding, or elopement at Harry P. Leu Gardens or anywhere in the Orlando area, I’d be honored to help tell your story. My job isn’t just to take beautiful photos. It’s to help you feel comfortable, be present, and create a gallery that brings you right back to how it all felt. If that sounds like the experience you’re looking for, I’d love to connect.

 

-Elle