Laura & Ryan’s Nature-Inspired Wedding at The Lodge at Shadow Hill
Laura and Ryan in front of the two-story fireplace in the lodge
Officiant: Flower City Ceremonies | Venue: The Lodge at Shadow Hill, Rochester, NY
Some weddings are unforgettable — not because of flowers or décor, but because of the story at the heart of the day. Laura and Ryan’s wedding at The Lodge at Shadow Hill was one of those weddings: a heartfelt, nature-inspired celebration full of love, family, and meaningful rituals.
From an online connection sparked by their dogs to a Crater Lake proposal, Yosemite adventures, and a symbolic tree planting ceremony, every detail of this Rochester wedding reflected who they are as a couple.
A Modern Love Story with Four-Legged Friends
Laura and Ryan met online in a storybook-modern way. Laura made the first move after seeing Ryan’s photo with his German Shepherd, Freya. Laura’s Norwegian Elkhound, Tank, made the pair of dog lovers feel an immediate connection. Their shared love for dogs became the first spark of a relationship that would grow into a deep, meaningful bond.
A Montana Sapphire & an Engagement Planned Together
One of the most remarkable aspects of their story? Laura and Ryan planned their engagement together. While organizing a winter trip to Northern California, they selected the stone for Laura’s engagement ring: a Montana sapphire.
The gemstone held deep significance for both. For Laura, it represented her grandmother Frieda, who lived in Montana for 25 years. For Ryan, it honored memories of a trip he took to Montana with his grandmother, who had recently celebrated her 100th birthday.
This thoughtful choice showed how much their Rochester wedding ceremony would celebrate family, legacy, and meaningful connections.
Crater Lake Proposal & Yosemite Adventures
During their Northern California trip, Ryan kept the engagement ring tucked in his backpack. Laura noticed him grabbing it during photo stops — unaware it was there. The proposal happened at Crater Lake, during a picnic with breathtaking views.
Afterward, they spent the night in Klamath Falls — the town where Ryan’s grandmother grew up — and then enjoyed three nights camping in Yosemite, celebrating their engagement under the stars.
This adventure reflected the couple’s values: nature, connection, family, and meaningful experiences — all of which would shape their wedding ceremony.
The Ceremony: Readings, Vows & Community Support
Laura and Ryan’s custom wedding ceremony was deeply personal, including meaningful readings chosen by family and friends:
John Muir’s “Sings Our Love”, read by Laura’s friend, Scott
Apache Wedding Blessing – Shelter for Each Other, read by Laura’s brother, Matthew
Guests also participated in community vows, promising to support the couple with love, encouragement, and celebration throughout their marriage. Hearing the chorus of “We will!” made the ceremony feel vibrant, supportive, and alive with connection.
Personal Vows That Captured Their Love
Laura and Ryan shared personal vows that highlighted the qualities they love most in each other.
Ryan spoke about Laura’s smile, her brilliance, and the way she makes every day brighter.
Laura expressed admiration for Ryan’s patience, thoughtfulness, and ability to make her feel heard and cherished.
Together, they promised to be each other’s favorite person — to laugh, adventure, grow old together, and even share tacos and pizza — a playful touch that reflected their personalities.
A Tree Planting Ceremony: Symbolizing Growth & Roots
The sapling with a their personal vows attached
Laura and Ryan chose a tree planting ceremony to symbolize the roots of their relationship and the growth of their marriage. The sapling, containing their private vows, was planted with care. Each guest received a small sapling to take home, extending the meaning of the ceremony beyond the wedding day.
The couple’s favor with an excerpt from one of the readings from the ceremony
This nature-inspired ritual perfectly reflected the couple’s values: love, growth, family, and connection. The tree will stand in their backyard as a living reminder of their commitment to one another.
Family, Nature, and a Celebration That Lasts
Every detail of Laura and Ryan’s wedding celebrated what they hold dear: family, community, nature, and love. From the Montana sapphire to the Yosemite engagement inspiration, from the meaningful readings to the symbolic tree planting, the day was a true reflection of their story.
As an Upstate NY wedding officiant, it’s always a joy to craft ceremonies that honor the couple’s journey, their connections, and their values. Laura and Ryan’s wedding was a perfect example of how a personalized wedding ceremony can combine heartfelt storytelling with nature, family, and meaningful rituals — creating memories that will last a lifetime.
If you’re planning your own nature-inspired wedding in Rochester, the Finger Lakes, or anywhere in Upstate NY, I’d love to help you craft a personalized ceremony that tells your story, honors your family, and creates unforgettable memories.
📩 Contact us today to start planning your dream ceremony, or follow us on Instagram @flowercityceremonies for inspiration, tips, and real wedding stories like Laura & Ryan’s.
