Romantic Garden Wedding at Cator Woolford Gardens in Atlanta

Nov 20

Atlanta, Georgia

Natalie + Chet

After Natalie and Chet’s timeless city engagement photos in Atlanta, I knew their wedding was going to be something unreal. Fast forward to their big day at Cator Woolford Gardens, and I couldn't have been more right. Their outdoor wedding was the perfect blend of timeless elegance and garden romance, and I'm still swooning over every single detail.

A Love Story Blooming in the Garden

From the moment I arrived at Cator Woolford Gardens, I could feel the intentionality behind every choice Natalie and Chet made. This wasn't just another wedding; it was a carefully curated love story brought to life through pink and green hues, vibrant florals, and the most romantic garden setting you can imagine. The couple envisioned a timeless garden love story, and this vision was executed perfectly. Working with Natalie and Chet again felt like reuniting with old friends. Having already captured their Atlanta engagement photos, I had a real sense of their chemistry and the way they interact with each other. That familiarity made their wedding day just that more special, being able to capture those quiet, intimate moments between the two of them.

Why Cator Woolford Gardens Is an Atlanta Wedding Gem

If you're looking for a wedding venue in Atlanta that offers historical charm and natural beauty, Cator Woolford Gardens absolutely delivers. This stunning estate sits on beautifully manicured grounds that feel like a secret garden tucked away from the city's hustle and bustle. The Italian-style villa provides an elegant backdrop, while the surrounding gardens offer blooming flowers, stone pathways, and jaw-dropping romantic archways. Cator Woolford Gardens offers both indoor and outdoor options for your ceremony. Due to the weather, Natalie and Chet chose an outdoor ceremony under a pavilion space to protect from the elements. This flexibility makes it a perfect Atlanta wedding venue to ensure that you always have a backup plan just in case the weather ever becomes an issue.One of the best things about Cator Woolford Gardens is how the grounds naturally photograph. The way the sun filters through the trees, the architectural details of the villa, and the perfectly maintained gardens all come together to create images that feel both romantic and timeless.

Honoring Tradition: The Laotian Baci Ceremony

So, Natalie and Chet’s celebration actually began the week before their wedding, when Natalie and Chet held a traditional Laotian Baci ceremony. This beautiful cultural tradition was such a meaningful way to start their wedding weekend, and it made their actual wedding day feel even more special. The Baci ceremony, which celebrates blessings and good fortune, set the perfect tone for the day ahead.

The Dream Team That Brought It All Together

Behind every flawless wedding is an incredible team of vendors, and Natalie and Chet had the absolute best. Their wedding planner, Ashley at Mostest, orchestrated every detail so seamlessly that the entire day flowed like a dream. Coordinating 130 guests, multiple vendors, and a tailored vision is no small feat, but Ashley made it look effortless. Madi at The Flower Garden Shop also deserves her own standing ovation for the florals. The pink and green color scheme came to life through her arrangements in the most stunning way. From Natalie's bouquet to the ceremony installations to the reception centerpieces that brought the garden indoors, everything was perfectly placed. The flowers enhanced the natural beauty of Cator Woolford Gardens without overpowering it, and it all looked out of this world!

Getting Ready and Garden Black Tie Perfection

The morning of the wedding had that excited, slightly nervous energy. Natalie and Chet’s garden-style dress code set the tone for all of their guests, and let’s just say everyone understood the assignment. Natalie's dress was beautifully timeless, and Chet looked equally dapper in his formal attire. And when they saw each other for their first look, the emotion was palpable. Having photographed their engagement session, I knew their connection was strong, but seeing them on their wedding day took it to another level.

Natalie & Chet’s Timeless Garden Wedding at Cator Woolford Gardens in Atlanta

When it was time for the ceremony, guests made their way to the ceremony space. The moment Natalie walked down the aisle, I watched Chet's face light up in a way that still gives me chills thinking about it. Their ceremony was heartfelt and personal, and you could feel the love not just between them but radiating from every single guest. After their Baci ceremony the week prior, this ceremony felt like the perfect continuation of their commitment to one another.

After the ceremony, we snuck away for some portraits. We really wanted to emphasize the gorgeous landscaping of Cator Woolford Gardens, so running through the grass and admiring the draping trees was a must. Having photographed Natalie and Chet before, they both were so natural in front of the camera. They trusted me, and that trust translated into images that feel authentic and genuine.

As the sun set, guests gathered for the reception. Proof of the Pudding catered the evening with a menu that had everyone talking. The food was exceptional and delectable, as expected. The presentation matched the sophistication of the day, while the flavors kept it approachable and delicious. Then came dessert by Alpine Bakery created not just a stunning wedding cake, but an entire dessert spread that gave guests so many sweet options to choose from.

The evening continued with heartfelt toasts, lots of laughter, and a dance floor that stayed packed all night long. Their first dance as husband and wife, surrounded by friends and family, followed by a packed dance floor, was the perfect ending to a perfect day. Here’s to Natalie + Chet and a love story that was too easy to capture!