Mark & Cody’s Colorful, Outdoor Museum Ceremony
Mark and Cody’s love story began in March 2018 when they both relocated to North Carolina – Cody had traveled from Waterloo, Iowa, and Mark from New York City. On their first date, the couple talked about Mark’s P.D. studies in environmental science and engineering and Cody’s beloved pup, Ollie, and each knew that a second date would be in their future.
Cody wanted to make his proposal a surprise, but Mark knew the plan for months. He proposed overlooking a waterfall at the Ledges Hotel in Hawley, Pennsylvania, with a puzzle that held their rings inside and opened with the message “I love you.” The two celebrated with family members who were brought along for the weekend.
A Magical Outdoor Wedding at the Museum of Life & Science
While venue searching, the couple fell in love with the Museum of Life & Science in Durham, NC. While the museum offers several indoor and outdoor event spaces (including exhibit spaces, its Butterfly House and an open lawn), the venue’s unique treehouse structure surrounded by nature immediately caught Cody and Mark’s attention. The treehouses seemed like a perfect spot for a colorful outdoor ceremony.
After securing the venue, the museum’s event coordinators recommended local wedding planners Something Fabulous Weddings & Events to the couple. Co-owners Trent Crumpler and Ashley McElroy instantly hit it off with Cody and Mark.
“With their guidance, we found all the vendors we needed,” Mark shares. Trent and Ashley helped curate the pair’s vision of a joyful fete exuding whimsy, color and wonder for their June 2023 wedding.
Authentic, Colorful Reception Details by Something Fabulous Wedding & Events
Petal & Oak supplied bright flower arrangements for Cody and Mark’s tented reception. The couple asked their guests to wear colorful cocktail attire, tasteful sparkles and neons. Instead of a guest book, each attendee could sign a blank puzzle. A string quartet played pop music during the ceremony and an electric violin and keyboard during cocktail hour at the patio next to the museum’s Butterfly House. Guests sipped liquid nitrogen piña coladas, enjoyed catering from Rocky Top Catering, and watched the couple perform a choreographed first dance in bright and glittery outfits.
Mark shares advice for readers: “This is a celebration of your joy and love, so embrace who you are and invite people into your world.”
Want more inspo for events at the Museum of Life & Science? Check out this moody boho wedding that took place next to the Butterfly House!
