1. Real Weddings

Vivian & Michael: An Outdoor Wedding in Seattle, WA

Musicians Vivian Linden and Michael McNaughton met five years ago while playing in a band together. After Mike, a software engineer, popped the questi

Musicians Vivian Linden and Michael McNaughton met five years ago while playing in a band together. After Mike, a software engineer, popped the question in the spring, the couple spent just four months putting together a unique wedding celebration that definitely hit all the right notes. The Bride Vivian Linden, 29 The Groom Michael McNaughton, 29 The Date August 24 A giant red oak tree overlooked Vivian and Michael's ceremony from beginning to end in Chittenden Locks' Carl S. English, Jr. Botanical Gardens. Ray's Boathouse, chosen for its impeccable view of the Olympic Peninsula, played perfect host to the reception celebration.

The ceremony site, the Carl S. English, Jr. Botanical Gardens in Chittenden Locks, set the tone -- Vivian and Michael chose a spot in front of a giant red oak tree, which traditionally symbolizes strength and persistence, to exchange their vows. Due to constraints of the site, ceremony decoration was kept to a minimum but it honestly didn't need another thing. Two large copper urns of flowers rested on either side of the ceremony area to create an altar and, in lieu of pews, green and white Indian tapestries lay on the ground for a completely laid-back effect.
The bride's bouquet included a mix of dark red and pink roses wrapped in vintage-pink silk ribbon and accented with thinner burgundy ribbons.
The cake was dark and white chocolate raspberry gateaux decorated with white icing and real flowers.
Vivian walked to the grassy altar in a strapless, vintage-style gown with a full skirt, handmade of champagne-color silk. The bride and her mother, Katherine Wolman, designed the gown, which was handmade by Katherine.