Bright and Breezy Botanical Themed Wedding at the American Swedish Institute

Sometimes one wedding leads to another. That was the case for Julieanne Ball and Jonathan Johanson, who met at the wedding of her college roommate and his childhood friend, who thought the two could be a good match. They thought right. As wedding plans got underway, the American Swedish Institute provided the ambiance the duo sought. “He’s a farmer and I am a doctor,” Julieanne says, “so an outdoor wedding suited us both.” Celebrating at the ASI was also a nod to their Scandinavian roots and the perfect location for a reception brimming with floral décor. Blooms ruled the day, starting with flower boxes along the aisle and the steps leading to the ceremony site, with vines twining around the pillars. The bridesmaids wore flower-patterned dresses, and garlands of eucalyptus and roses cascaded down the reception tables. “We incorporated the botanical theme with our cake (blackcurrant and elderflower) and cocktails (elderflower spritz),” Julieanne says. Edible flowers topped off the drinks, with more flowers placed around the cake “to make it look like it was growing from a bouquet.” Speeches from both fathers were the highlight of the night, followed by dining and dancing. “As long as there are drinks and music,” Julieanne says, “people will find a way to have fun.”