Fall Wedding at JC Raulston Arboretum in Raleigh, NC
April 5, 2026
Photographer: Mark Maya Photography
Maryam and David’s JC Raulston Arboretum wedding in Raleigh, North Carolina was a beautiful reflection of who they are – thoughtful, creative, and deeply connected to both their families and their shared love of music. As their wedding musician, I worked closely with them to design a ceremony soundtrack that felt as intentional as the rest of their day.
Music That Set the Tone from the Start
From the beginning, Maryam and David approached their wedding music as many Hummingbird Harmonies couples do. As musicians themselves – Maryam on violin and David on piano – they not only cared about what songs were played, but how everything flowed together.
We spent time shaping the ceremony music so it would feel seamless from start to finish. When they were unsure about transitions between processional songs, I recorded demo versions for them so they could actually hear how everything would sound together. That way, they could make decisions confidently, knowing the music would feel cohesive in the moment, not disjointed.
As guests arrived, the prelude created a calm, welcoming atmosphere in the White Garden of the JC Raulston Arboretum. The selections blended classical pieces like Clair de Lune with meaningful songs like In My Life, Fields of Gold, and Can’t Help Falling in Love. They also included several Studio Ghibli pieces – like One Summer’s Day, Merry-Go-Round of Life, and Always With Me – as a quiet nod to the art they both love.
Ceremony at the JC Raulston Arboretum
Their Raleigh wedding ceremony took place in the shaded White Garden on a clear, sunny October day. The space itself didn’t need much decor; between the natural greenery and the rich autumn colors woven throughout the design (deep greens, crimson, and warm orange tones), everything felt elegant without being overdone.
One of the most meaningful elements of the ceremony was the harp and cello duet. Maryam had shared how much she loves the cello, so a preferred Hummingbird Harmonies cellist provided the perfect accompaniment to the ceremony. It added a level of depth and warmth that really complemented the garden setting and helped Maryam realize her vision.
The processional was filled with personal choices. The officiant, groom, and wedding party entered to Your Song by Elton John – one of David’s all-time favorites. Two younger cousins served as flower girls and walked down the aisle to Great Fairy Fountain, which felt both nostalgic and playful.
Maryam walked down the aisle to The Swan, a piece she had always dreamed of using. The live performance with harp and cello, gave the moment a sense of quiet gravity and beauty that completely aligned with Maryam’s energy.
After their ceremony, officiated by a family member, they exited to Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You, which brought joyful energy as they walked back down the aisle together.
Portraits Around the Arboretum and Raleigh
After the garden ceremony, they spent time taking portraits throughout the arboretum and later in downtown Raleigh. The combination of garden spaces and city backdrops felt elegant, but still relaxed and personal.
Reception at Jiddi Space
The wedding reception at Jiddi Space carried that same intentional energy into the evening, especially through the traditions and experiences they shared with their guests.
One of the most meaningful moments was the Persian honey ceremony, honoring Maryam’s heritage. Under a veil held above them to represent their home, guests sprinkled sugar onto the couple to bless their marriage with sweetness. Maryam and David then fed each other honey, symbolizing the care and support they’ll continue to give one another throughout their marriage. It was a meaningful and joyful incorporation of all of their loved ones into the blessing of their marriage.
Instead of a bouquet toss, they did a Southern cake pull. Each of Maryam’s close friends pulled a ribbon attached to the cake, revealing a charm hidden inside tied to the end of the ribbon. Each charm signified a different meaning or fortune. It turned into a fun, interactive moment before they cut the cake together.
A Day That Truly Reflected Them
What stood out most about this North Carolina wedding was how true it felt to Maryam and David.
Every music choice had a reason behind it. I even learned Just the Way You Are by Billy Joel for David, which was a fun personal addition to the day.
One moment that stayed with me was when Maryam’s dad came up to me after the ceremony to share how much he loved the harp and how meaningful it was for him. Those are the kinds of moments that remind me why I love what I do.
Maryam and David later shared:
“Sarah was the perfect person to play at our fall wedding! Several of our guests commented on how much they enjoyed the music.
One moment that stood out to me was when my wife and I were choosing our songs and uncertain about whether some songs would work well in a certain order. We sent Sarah an email asking what she thought, and she recorded some demos of how the transitions would sound so we could hear them for ourselves. It was super helpful for deciding and feeling comfortable with the song choices ahead of time!”
Planning Your Own JC Raulston Arboretum Wedding
If you’re planning your own JC Raulston Arboretum wedding and want music that feels thoughtful, seamless, and completely personal, I’d love to help you create something that truly fits you.
Creative Team
Ceremony Venue: JC Raulston Arboretum
Reception Venue: Jiddi Space
Coordinator: EK Events
Photographer: Mark Maya Photography
Ceremony Musicians: Hummingbird Harmonies
Reception Music: Emerald Empire Band
Catering & Desserts: Sitti Restaurant
Florist: Comfy Florals
Hair & Makeup: Jessica Vargas
Meet your wedding ceremony musician
Planning your arboretum wedding and dreaming of ceremony music that is tailored for you? I’d love to help you turn your love story into a one-of-a-kind musical experience. Reach out to me to start the conversation.
