If you’re planning an elopement in Boston, The Arnold Arboretum in Jamaica Plain is one of those Boston gems that feels both peaceful and full of life at the same time. With winding paths, open fields, and so much natural beauty built right in, it’s the perfect place for a quiet celebration surrounded by family. Marcelle and Milo chose this setting for their spring wedding—a day that felt relaxed, meaningful, and entirely their own.
Marcelle and Milo were married on a perfect late spring day at The Arboretum in Jamaica Plain. The Arboretum has a certain kind of magic in late spring—sunlight streaming through layers of fresh greens and tons of bright spring florals everywhere you look. Their first look was one of my very favorites. There was so much anticipation and I loved being there to capture all of those moments. Marcelle wore a beautiful off-the-shoulder midi-length dress that suited the relaxed garden setting around her perfectly. Milo chose a dark green suit, which showed as a subtle nod to the nature around them. The bouquet and boutonniere were filled with soft pinks and greens that felt very much like spring.
On this day the sun was bright, the air warm, and Marcelle & Milo walked until they found the perfect spot for their ceremony. Because you cannot rent the Arboretum, you are allowed to photograph anywhere (but cannot block off any part of the public space). So not being locked down by a specific area within the park, Marcelle & Milo held their ceremony under a quiet grove of trees surrounded only by their immediate families. It was simple, personal, and filled with meaning. They included a few traditions that made the ceremony feel uniquely theirs—a stomping of the glass as well as a short tea ceremony using a tea set brought home from Marcelle’s parents Japanese honeymoon decades ago. Both moments added personal touches to the ceremony.
After the ceremony we walked the paths of the Arboretum together, stopping under trees blooming with spring colors—I’m a sucker for hanging vines of wisteria—and walking through fields of bright yellow buttercup flowers. A favorite moment came at the end when we found the perfect old tree to pose in front of and it felt like a perfect culmination of all the the Arboretum has to offer. We truly couldn’t have asked for a more perfect spring day for the weather and the gorgeous surrounding spaces. The whole day was a wonderful reminder that simple celebrations are also full of meaning.
Marcelle and Milo, I’m so grateful to have shared this day with you and to have captured these moments surrounded by all the beauty of spring in Boston. Thank you for trusting me with your memories!
Credits:
Venue: The Arnold Arboretum
Ring designer: Storica Fine Jewelry
Flowers: Sweet Pea & Sage
Ready to discuss your plans for an intimate wedding or elopement at the Arnold Arboretum? Reach out to check my availability.
