When you combine a conservationist botanical garden with Scottish partner dancing lessons and a community of giggly guests, it’s a surefire way to a hell of a shindig. Steve and Heather didn’t want a huge, fancy to-do. They didn’t want to avoid each other before the wedding, nor did they want an elaborate ceremony. They gathered the people they love in a charming garden, strung flags and lights, invited the Not So Fast food truck, and taught us all how to dance, Scottish-style. Doesn’t get much more natural than that. It was short and sweet, and just so them. It was a perfect demonstration that weddings don’t have to be fancy, expensive, or elaborate to be totally beautiful and just right for the two people uniting in life and love.

The Water Conservation Garden is a rad education space, but obviously lovely, as well. I can’t believe I’d never heard of it previously. There are ample educational resources there, and tips for anyone who’s delighted by plants, gardening, or general coolness. It was also just a grand place to hang out, eat good food, and laugh with some awesome people.

It may have been the speediest ceremony I’ve ever been witness to, but it sure was full of good energy. Everyone rallied around these two in a semi circle and cheered while a quick exchange of words and rings was made. In a matter of minutes (literally), these two were hitched. Shortly after the ceremony, we were able to sneak away for a few private portraits. I asked them jokingly if they felt married yet. They looked at each other, grinned, and said in unison, “we really do!”

Every piece of jewelry she wore had a significance and history—connection to people of importance in her life. I love that these things were more than pretty, they were meaningful. This was very much a wedding rich with only the things and customs and people that really meant something to these two. And that made it perfect.

After the ceremony, Heather and Steve kicked the party off by showing us how ceilidh dancing is done. FYI… it’s pronounced ‘kaylee’. There’s a lot of skipping and lining up and patterns and amusement. Apparently, square dancing has its origins here. Who knew! Everybody got on the dance floor and there were almost no injuries, which is a feat unto itself, now that I’ve seen—and even participated in—the craziness. And yes, if you were wondering, that is indeed a pirate (and their landlord) at their wedding. Don’t worry, I’m jealous, too.

It was such a genuine day. So earnest, so real, and so focused on the very most valuable things. Love, community, and happiness. May we all keep these things at the forefront of our marriages forever and ever and ever.

TALENT ROLL CALL

Photography: Let’s Frolic Together / Venue: San Diego Water Conservation Garden / Caterer: Not So Fast Food Truck / Music: House of Scotland Ceilidh Band