Why We Went
Our 26th wedding anniversary gave us the perfect reason to pause, spend intentional time together, and celebrate the life we have built over more than two decades of marriage. We chose the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden because it offered a beautiful local setting where we could slow down, reconnect, and enjoy a meaningful experience without traveling far from home.
The Setting
The Dallas Arboretum provided a peaceful and romantic backdrop for our anniversary date. Its landscaped gardens, seasonal exhibits, shaded pathways, and natural beauty created an atmosphere that encouraged us to explore at an unhurried pace. Surrounded by flowers, greenery, and thoughtfully designed spaces, we found countless opportunities to appreciate the scenery, take photographs, and enjoy being together.
The Date
Our anniversary date was intentionally simple: walk through the gardens, explore the exhibits, take photographs, and enjoy uninterrupted time together. Rather than following a demanding schedule, we allowed the day to unfold naturally. The relaxed pace gave us room to talk, laugh, reflect on 26 years of marriage, and appreciate the significance of celebrating another year together.
What We Experienced
We explored the Arboretum’s gardens and exhibits while taking in the colors, textures, and carefully arranged landscapes around us. Along the way, we paused for photographs and found quiet places to enjoy the surroundings. The experience felt peaceful and personal, offering a welcome opportunity to step away from everyday responsibilities and focus entirely on one another.
Food & Refreshments
Food was not the focus of this particular date. We kept our refreshments simple with beverages and plenty of water as we explored the grounds. Staying refreshed allowed us to enjoy the gardens comfortably and remain present for the experience rather than organizing the day around a formal meal.
Our Favorite Moment
Our favorite moment came in A Woman’s Garden, where we sat together on the stone benches of the Poetry Garden beside the reflection pools. Surrounded by quiet greenery, we were able to pause, take in the peaceful setting, and simply enjoy one another’s company. That calm, unhurried moment became one of the most meaningful parts of our anniversary date.
What We Would Do Differently
If we planned the date again during the summer, we would choose cooler, more casual clothing—especially shorts. Because we were going to dinner afterward, we had dressed for both parts of the day. Although our outfits worked well for the evening, lighter clothing would have made exploring the gardens more comfortable in the midday heat.
Our Recommendations
For a summer visit, we recommend arriving earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon, when the sun is lower and the temperature may be more comfortable. Dress appropriately for the weather, bring water, and allow enough time to explore without rushing. If dinner follows the garden visit, consider bringing a change of clothing.
Michelle’s Take
Nigel planned an entire day of anniversary experiences, and I appreciated the thought and intention he placed into every detail. We concluded the day by going to church, which was my biggest surprise. It made the celebration feel especially meaningful and reminded me that our marriage is grounded not only in love and companionship, but also in faith.
Nigel’s Take
We experienced a great deal throughout the day, including visiting the Dallas Museum of Art and enjoying lunch, coffee, and dinner. However, our time at the Arboretum gave us something different. Surrounded by the beauty and stillness of nature, we had an opportunity to step away from the activity of the day and engage fully with only each other.
Final Reflection
Our 26th anniversary reminded us that spending meaningful time together requires intention. Even after many years of marriage, connection must continue to be nurtured through shared experiences, thoughtful planning, quiet conversation, and undivided attention. We left the day grateful for the life we have built and committed to creating more moments that allow us to slow down and choose each other again.
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