“Our ceremony took place under a sun dappled tree canopy and was filled with music, meaning and connection,” says Kristina of her wedding to David at Wild Rice Retreat. “There was a meditative moment of silence at the beginning of our ceremony where we collectively spent time listening to bird song, the wind in the trees and all the perfect sounds of nature.”
For Kristina and David, birds have always been more than just a shared interest—they’re a symbol of their bond. Kristina’s connection to avian care began through volunteer work at the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota and the Gabbert Raptor Center where she helped rehabilitate injured birds. When she and David, an environmental scientist, started dating, birding quickly became a way for them to connect with each other and nature.
So, when their loved ones arranged for a falconer to bring two raptors to their wedding, it felt like the perfect tribute to their passion. During the social hour, guests were treated to an intimate, educational experience learning about the powerful yet vulnerable lives of raptors.
For them, birding isn’t just a hobby; it’s a reminder of how love and nature are deeply interconnected. “Birdwatching, or birding, is one of the most grounding and joyful parts of our relationship,” Kristina says. “It keeps us present, in touch with our senses, encourages curiosity, and brings a sense of wonder and excitement to even the simplest of walks.”
