Not too long ago I was asked to design a wedding ceremony at Belvedere Castle in Central Park. The ceremony was absolutely beautiful, and the location made the whole experience somewhat magical.
Since Belvedere Castle has strict rules against too much decorating (“no hanging, nailing, or fresh flowers”), I decided to create some silk flower arrangements using yellow/orange Gerbera daisies, accented with satin and organza ribbons, and paper butterflies. Check out the pictures of the wedding at the end of the post 
Belvedere Castle was designed in 1865 by Calvert Vaux and Jacob Wrey Mould as a “Victorian Folly” (it’s only real purpose was to to look beautiful and enhance the romantic landscape). It has a magnificent view of the Delacorte Theater (where the popular Shakespeare in the Park festival is performed), the 55-acre Great Lawn, and the mysterious, algae-green surface of Turtle Pond. Today, aside from being a major tourist attraction. the castle serves a practical purpose as well — as a weather station for local TV and radio stations.
Armed with all this great information, I remember excitedly hiking up the path to the castle with my camera in hand (this was my first visit!). Half way up, I stopped to sit on a wooden bench quietly placed along the path. I was surrounded by trees and could hear nothing but the sound of birds. It’s hard to believe this was in the middle of New York City! I continued walking and saw a little sign that said “Forever WILD,” which made me smile.
Eco Bench 
Nice Sign!
Almost there!
Castle at the top of these steps??
Ah! Belvedere Castle
The View!
The wedding was absolutely beautiful! Here are some pictures:
Gerbera Daisy arrangement with butterfly decoration
View of the naturally beautiful Turtle Pond, with skyscrapers looming in the background
Beautiful bride standing in front of the Castle…
“1-2-3 JUMP!” what a fun picture! Kneeling in the foreground is Taka, a talented and versatile photographer who shoots everything from weddings and fashion, to architecture and landscapes. Taka Photo
Special thanks and congratulations to Ayana & Anthony
