A Garden Wedding at Daniel Stowe Conservancy | Katie & Chris
Surrounded by lush greenery, blooming gardens, and soft summer light, Katie Milau and Chris Johnson celebrated their wedding at Daniel Stowe Conservancy in Belmont, North Carolina. Their June celebration embraced the beauty of the venue with a fresh floral palette, relaxed styling, and thoughtful moments that felt personal from beginning to end.
Captured by Caitlin Elizabeth Photography, every image highlights the natural beauty of the gardens while preserving the joy and ease that defined the day.
A Ceremony Framed by Nature
Daniel Stowe Conservancy provided an incredible backdrop from the very beginning. Towering tropical plants inside the conservatory created an unexpected setting for portraits, while the outdoor gardens offered winding paths, flowering trees, and colorful blooms around every corner.
Rather than relying on elaborate décor, the surroundings became part of the celebration, allowing every portrait to feel vibrant and full of life.
Fresh Florals and Soft Color
Katie carried an airy bouquet filled with blush garden roses, creamy white blooms, delicate lisianthus, and playful pops of peach and yellow. The same fresh palette continued throughout the reception with colorful centerpieces that felt organic and cheerful without overwhelming the space.
Her bridesmaids wore coordinating blue floral dresses, adding another layer of softness that complemented the garden setting beautifully.
Chris chose a warm camel suit paired with a light blue tie, creating a look that felt polished while fitting naturally into the outdoor surroundings. One of the most memorable details was his elephant cufflinks, a subtle personal touch captured beautifully throughout the day.
Relaxed Moments Throughout the Gardens
Some of the gallery’s most memorable images came from simply exploring the property together. From walking beneath flowering trees to sharing quiet embraces inside the conservatory, Katie and Chris embraced every corner of the venue.
The portraits feel effortless and genuine, balancing editorial composition with authentic moments of connection.
A Favorite Memory After the Celebration
When reflecting on the day, Katie shared that one of her favorite moments happened after the celebration had already ended.
“After the wedding our photographer took us outside to do some photos just Chris and I. The day was over, we didn’t worry about messing my hair up or our clothes. It was fun and felt special and I love those photos and having that moment with my man.”
Those relaxed evening portraits perfectly capture the feeling of the day. With the timeline complete and nothing left to do but enjoy each other’s company, Katie and Chris were able to slow down and simply be together.
Other Local Vendors:
Daniel Stowe Conservancy, Suarez Bakery, Derita Floral Supply