Royal Weddings

Ideas & Inspiration

Royal Weddings

When Seattle Bride learned that this gorgeous mansion is a custom-built interpretation of Kensington Palace in London, we just had to share. Kensington Gardens is the brainchild of owners Kelly Watson, a former corporate designer, and Mark Watson, an architect turned engineer. The two were inspired by the 17th-century original, which they got to know when Mark lived in London. Kelly would visit and walk by the palace daily, taking their now-teenage children to nearby Kensington Gardens. “We’d see the squirrels and buy pecans,” Kelly says. “It is a wonderful memory. That’s how this whole thing evolved.” When the couple returned to the States, they found the perfect 23-acre site for the re-creation in Gig Harbor. Brides can choose either the garden wedding chapel (an arched canopy set on a raised wooden dais) or the ballroom (complete with  French doors, coffered ceilings and patio) for the vows and reception. The grounds feature a garden of white flowers, manicured lawns, walkways and large fountains. “I love the moment when the bride pauses at the fountain and sees the groom for the first time,” Kelly says. Rentals begin at $2,900, not including sit-down dinners (an additional $45 to $73 per guest) catered in-house and served on fine china—English, of course. 

Get more from Seattle Bride! Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.