Journal
Late Summer Wedding - Hong & Servet's Love Shines!
Wedding in Columbus, Ohio! Hong and Servet asked me to be their officiant at Franklin Park Conservatory after I had the honor of marrying their friends at Scioto Reserve! I never get tired of marrying brides and grooms. Each ceremony is different - each relationship, like a fingerprint! The love and energy that each bride brings to her groom, and groom to his bride, is unique. I must say at times it is awe-inspiring, and warms my heart in a way unlike anything else. I believe it also is a reminder of my own marriage, and the love that Jean and I share that continues even through the many challenges we have faced in life for the past 30-plus years. This love relationship that husbands and wives share is one of the great mysteries of our existence. For this reason, it is something to celebrate! Therefore, I want each wedding to feel so special and unique to each couple, so that they will remember their day with the utmost joy.
In this first photo Hong and Servet share some humor, laughter, and smiles!
This next shot shows Hong walking the aisle as she approaches her groom in the Brides Garden at Franklin Park. This location is a favorite at the Conservatory, especially for smaller, outdoor weddings.
Their wedding kiss! Hong and Servet share their kiss as they have been pronounced husband and wife before their family and friends. What could be more cool?
The happy couple, now husband and wife, walk the aisle arm in arm, ready to face the future together in the embrace of their undying love. Gotta love this!
Now I'd like to give credit to Hong and Servet's wedding photographer! Her name is Tessa Berg and her photography company is Starling Studio! You can contact Tessa by following the link provided. Also her email and phone number are info@starling-studio.com and 614-423-9094. Please visit her website to see some of the other great photography work that she does!
Wedding videographer was Dane & Leslie Khy of The Perfect Pear. It was great to work with them. Live strings by Columbus Musicians and Ian Jones.
Thanks for taking to time to visit our website! Come back soon, if you'd like!
Rachel & Elias at Franklin Park Conservatory!
I was enjoying some happy moments as the officiant for Rachel & Elias. It was their wedding day in Columbus, Ohio, at Franklin Park Conservatory. The Palm House is such a fantastic location both for the plant life, and the lighting for photos!
Rachel and Elias share their moment after those words so often heard at weddings, "You may kiss the bride!"
Everyone is very joyful and happy as the bride and groom begin making their way down the aisle! Best man and groomsmen are seen celebrating too.
In these next 3 photos Rachel and Elias can be seen together in the peacefulness and quiet joy of their love.
All photos in this entry were from the fine work of the professionals at AddVision. These talented artists can be reached by visiting their website using the link provided. Also you can call or email Mac Wentz at 614-505-6070 and mac@addvisionstudios.com.
The pleasure of being the wedding officiant for this wonderful couple for was a truly joyful experience. I wish Rachel & Elias all the best in their marriage and lives together!
Franklin Park Conservatory's Wedding Magic
When looking for a wedding venue in Columbus, Ohio there is no place like Franklin Park Conservatory. I have the privilege of serving as the officiant for many brides and groom at this wonderful venue and the experience is always amazing. One reason why this venue stands out is the dedication and professionalism of the staff at this Conservatory.
I had the opportunity to talk with Colleen Tassone and Ariana Tyler earlier this summer. These ladies were kind enough to spend some time with me as we explored some aspects about this venue that distinguishes it from the rest.
Franklin Park Conservatory is a garden in an urban area. Brides and grooms are able to get the best of both the lush garden surroundings, and all the urban benefits of being situated close to downtown Columbus. The photographs couples obtain are unique and incomparable. Also, brides and grooms receive a high level of customer service. Colleen shared, "Everybody's number one goal here is that the event goes off flawlessly".
There are specific time frames built in with each event step very clearly delineated, so couples know what to expect and when. Each couple also receives a personal wedding coordinator who does so much at the rehearsal and on the wedding day to make sure every need is met. It's great!
The staff also maintains a fantastic rapport with the vendors serving their couples, and have a "team mentality" when it comes to bringing about a successful wedding. This all works together for a wonderful wedding experience.
Hanging out on the steps in the Palm House...
These are the ladies who make this all work... No they are not showing off, they are just happy to be a part of such an awesome team!
Okay I could not resist this...plus the photographer wanted this shot - (That's my excuse anyway!)
Overlooking the West Terrace...
Here you can see a little bit of what I was looking at. It is all so incredibly beautiful.
When I asked Colleen "If there were 3 things that make Franklin Park Conservatory truly stand out as one of Central Ohio's Premier wedding venues what would they be? She said that they were the Botanical Gardens, the convenience and amenities, and the customer service. These ladies seen below make it all happen. I invite you contact Franklin Park Conservatory for your wedding needs. You won't be disappointed!
All photographs in this entry are the artistic work of April King of Open Prism Photography. You can contact April by email at openprismphotography@gmail.com, or by calling 614-653-9082.
Joanna & Aaron at Franklin Park Conservatory
Fun wedding in Columbus, Ohio.... more comments posted below, after the photos.
As the officiant for Joanna & Aaron I had the joy of participating in this couple's dream of a western ceremony. They did hold to some of their Asian traditions, though, which is why you see Aaron standing to my right, instead of my left. They were a beautiful couple and I was so happy to celebrate with them on their special day at Franklin Park Conservatory.
Kyle Maza of Little Tree Studios took these incredible photos. You can contact Kyle or her husband, Steve, at by visiting their website in the provided link or calling 614-985-1671. Email works as well at info@littletreestudios.com.
Thanks for visiting my website!
Another Beautiful Wedding at Franklin Park Conservatory
As the wedding officiant for Jessica and Daniel, I was honored to celebrate with this bride and groom. We were in Columbus, Ohio, and it was time to sign the marriage license at Franklin Park Conservatory on their big day. It was fabulous weather and a wonderful moment. I love Jessica and Daniel's expressions as they both look on at the signing. You can tell that this bride and groom are meant for each other.
Here is a close up view of the marriage license as their wedding photographer, Comfort Witcher, captures the image.
In this photograph Jessica and I were looking together at her marriage license. She is so happy that this day has come and we were enjoying the fact that she and Daniel are now married.
The happy groom - Here is a great shot of Daniel as he stands with joy and anticipation as his lovely bride will be approaching soon. I found this couple to be very kind and sweet. When they were together I was able to feel their love for each other and for other people, too. I was happy to celebrate with Jessica and Daniel on the beautiful day they became husband and wife.
All photos in this entry are courtesy of Comfort Witcher and Comfort Photography. She does fantastic work as you can see from the images posted here. You can view more of her fine work at by following the link provided. Comfort's email and phone number are comfort@comfortphotography.com and 614-668-7609.
The DJ for their wedding was Dan Green of Encore Entertainment.
Ali Goldschmidt was the wedding event lady for Franklin Park Conservatory. Ali does a tremendous job and is very caring and attentive. I was glad to be on the same team with her that day.
Jessica and Daniel, your Columbus wedding was wonderful! Thanks again for inviting me to be a part of your day and to serve as your officiant. I wish you all the best and many happy years together!
Love, children, & weddings - Kendra and Nathan at Franklin Park Conservatory
The pleasure of being invited by brides and grooms to be the officiant at their wedding involves many things. We were at Franklin Park Conservatory in Columbus, Ohio, and on Kendra and Nathan's special day, their flower girl and ring bearer brought smiles and joy. Cute beyond words, the photo of these two special children below is one that can be looked at often and again.
I really felt that I wanted to include this photo of Kendra because it is unique and intriguing. It holds an unspoken depth. Now let's look at some of their ceremony...
All the guests were distracted by the all-out "cuteness" of this ring bearer and flower girl.
"Let's really feel these petals. This is so much fun!"
Here we are in the Brides Garden at Franklin Park Conservatory. The bride and groom now Mr. and Mrs.! Let's hear a little of what was in their ceremony..."Kendra and Nathan met 5 years ago at Ohio University. They both knew from the very beginning of their friendship that something great was going to happen between them, but were too afraid to admit it to each other. Well obviously, they got over those fears and that is why we are celebrating here, with them today."
I am very happy for Nathan and Kendra. Here we are in front of the south doors that open for events.
Sweet moment with groom and bride. Again, a unique photo. Their photographer took many shots with a not-so-common flair.
Here she is again. Flower girl personified.
And lastly, an awesomely sweet shot of bride, Kendra, with her flower girl. Like most in this entry, this photo speaks by itself.
All photographs in this entry are courtesy of Suzanne Pyle of Suzanne Pyle Photography (no website yet). Please contact Suzanne at her phone number by calling 740-443-6006.
I had the pleasure of working with Andrea Bannan at Franklin Park Conservatory. She did (and does) a wonderful job making sure that all couples have a fantastic wedding experience.
Kendra and Nathan, I wish you every good blessing in your lives together! Thanks for asking me to be your officiant for your wedding day in Columbus, Ohio!
Christy & John - Franklin Park Conservatory
Here we are at Franklin Park Conservatory in Columbus, Ohio. The privilege of being the wedding officiant for John and Christy's ceremony was mine that day. There was barely a cloud in the sky. But love was definitely in the air as this wonderful couple became husband and wife. I love to personalize the wedding ceremony with each couple. Here is a little peek at theirs..."This happy couple, John and Christy stand before you today and this journey to becoming husband and wife, for them, has been filled with joy, fun, and a quite bit of humor. For instance, they worked together at the same company. One day, John finally got up enough nerve to approach Christy and he said this to her - “I want to know if you have a boyfriend.” Christy’s response was - “No, do you know of someone?” Even though Christy wasn’t picking up on John’s meaning he was not fazed and kept right on with his plan. He then said – “Will you go out to lunch or dinner with me?” Chrsity’s response was, “Yes”…but then she said, “wait a minute….I thought you were married”. So, she put the idea of "dates" with John on hold…but he just kept asking and she finally said “yes”, and it was for sure this time. Then in 2010, at Christmastime, they became officially engaged."
Eliza Babarczy was the venue professional assigned to take care of John and Christy's needs for their wedding experience at Franklin Park Conservatory. This wedding venue is amazing with the level of service and care each couple receives. It helps everything to flow very smoothly.
This photo below captures the beauty of what Chrsity and John share in the surroundings of what this venue offers brides and grooms. Of course the weather was cooperating too!One reason why I love this last photograph is that is shows a lot about this couple. John is strong, yet gentle and caring; and Christy is strong and sensitive, but just what John needs. In my opinion, they seem to "glow" together in each other's love...
The images in this blog entry are the fine artistic work of John Cover of Reflections Photo Studio. Please visit John's website by way of the link provided. You can also reach him by email at jcover@reflectionsphoto.net and by phone at 614-890-0303. He also has a Mansfield, Ohio, line at 419-774-0303.
Wedding music was provided by Nyte Flyte Entertainment.
John and Christy, thanks again for inviting me to be your officiant at your wedding. I enjoyed conducting a happy and memorable ceremony with you and wish you all the best in your years together!
When Scott met Meagan...
When Scott met Meagan their lives would never be the same. They fell in love and decided to marry in Columbus, Ohio. It was a residential ceremony, and as their wedding officiant it was my pleasure to help these two love birds tie the knot and begin their married life together.
Scott is friends with a bride for whom I had officiated at OSU, which was one reason Scott & Meagan asked me to celebrate with them!
The above photo is sweet. Meagan's red shoes matching the other red items, her slight pout, and Scott's smile and gaze all engender a bit of curiosity and humor. You almost wonder what they were thinking about at the time. Plus, it's cute!
Kate Brewer, of Kathryn Brewer Photography took the photos in this entry. Kate's phone number is 440-623-9319 and her email is brewer.kate@gmail.com.
Well, I'm off to prepare for another wedding at Franklin Park Conservatory. Thanks for reading my blog and have a great day!
Pam & Rick at Franklin Park Conservatory
Having a wedding at Franklin Park Conservatory in Columbus, Ohio is always such a great experience. After Pam and Rick asked me to be their wedding officiant I had the pleasure of celebrating their union in the Palm House. The Palm House may be hot, but it is still a cool place to tie the knot!
I apologize for the lame humor, but I couldn't resist. Besides, Pam and Rick were a lot of fun to celebrate with! There were many smiles, some jokes, and a great deal of fun and joy as this couple became husband and wife. In this picture to the left, Rick and I are waiting peacefully for Pam who can be seen in the foreground during her bridal walk.
Their ceremony is now underway as I adjust my glasses.
Something funny is now said. I can't remember if it was me, Pam or Rick who said it, but we were all enjoying the moment.
Pam and Rick exchange vows. Let's be sure the ring is secure.
Sweet feelings arise. I just love their expressions.
Now, their sand ceremony with their children's involvement. How cool is that?
Pam and Rick are excited to be husband and wife!
Come here my love, let's kiss!
Although spontaneous, Rick agrees.
Rick's smile tells it all.
Tearful joy and sheer contentment!
Pam and Rick, thanks for asking me to be a part of this awesome day! May you enjoy all your days together and may they be filled with much love, joy, and zest for life!
All photographs in this entry are courtesy of Open Prism Photography and the artistic work of Rebekah King. Rebekah can be contacted by calling 614-653-9082. You can also visit her website by following the link provided.
Violinist, Connie Anderson, filled the air with beautiful music. Connie can be reached by calling 614-746-0393. Her email is CAnderson43212@aol.com.
Sand Ceremony at Franklin Park Conservatory
Being a wedding officiant in Columbus, Ohio allows me to experience many "special" ceremonies that couples, and sometimes families, include. For Pam & Rick the sand flows at Franklin Park Conservatory in a symphony of colors as this blended family combines their sand into one vase. As their wedding minister I had fun officiating this part of their ceremony. Here the height of the sand is at the inscribed letters.
Now the sand moves above the letters.
A few final grains poured by one serious participant. If you look closely you can actually see the last bit of sand between vases.
Now the finished product! Doesn't it look great?
Maybe you are wondering where to obtain various colors of sand if you were to use this ceremony for your wedding. You can conduct a Google search for sand ceremony kits and you will find companies like Sandsational Sparkle that sell many colors and styles. Enjoy!
All images in this entry are courtesy of Open Prism Photography and photographer, Rebekah King. You can call Rebekah at 614-653-9082.
Bethany & Brandon - Franklin Park Conservatory
Bethany & Brandon exchange vows and rings at Franklin Park Conservatory. I had fun being their wedding officiant and enjoyed the company of this lovely bride and her groom. There is no shortage of plants in the Palm House as this photo clearly shows!
As a wedding minister I try to have fun with my couples. If any day should be joyful, it should be your wedding day.
You may kiss the bride!
Bethany and Brandon, may your days together be filled with joy, as you share many happy and blessed years!
All photographs in this entry are courtesy of the fine work of Amy Mullins of Amy Rebecca Photography. To contact Amy, click on the link in this blog entry or call her at 740-304-7193.