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| I started with the idea that I would paint an image symbolizing unification through love, and that we would then create this painting with flowers planted in the earth. |
| I began with a number of sketches before deciding this was the image. I wanted there to be room for the audience to sit within two outstretching arms that were curling around, about to form a circle. We used this painting on our wedding invitation, but the invitees did not know yet what the image signified. |
| At the wedding site, we first staked out the design using a system of nails and string, then marked the boundaries with paint. Next, we carved out the image with a sod cutter and tilled in a large mound of topsoil. One of the most rewarding aspects of our creative process was the spontaneous involvement of friends and neighbors who liked the idea we were developing and volunteered to help. Jennifer Hart was our hero along with Lisa, Gary , Bill, and Jenn. |
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| We worked with Jennifer and one of the plant gurus at Portland Nursery to figure out which plants would both be the right color and highly likely to blossom on September 15, when we were to be married. Also, the plants had to grow fast because we did not start planting until mid-June. At this point Sam and I were a little worried that we would be getting married inside of a giant mud-puddle. |
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| We chose to represent the orange from the painting with marigolds, lots of marigolds. Other elements of the painting were rendered with a variety of annuals, including petunias, salvias, lobelias, dalias, and sunflowers. |
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| This way to the wedding day: |
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| The results were not entirely as we had first imagined, but nevertheless, completely beautiful. As the summer progressed the garden took on a magical aura. |
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