Union in the landscape: A new landscape, a new ritual for relationship transitions

There are currently a range of beautiful choices for outdoor weddings in Manitoba. The settings generally include an arrangement of white tents, an arch or a pergola, some flowers pots, gardens and folding chairs. But are we, perhaps, missing out? Is there a place where guests can experience the spiritual awareness that often accompanies a feeling of integration with the world; a place where one can feel a very real part of our sensory-rich natural surroundings?; This Masters of Landscape Architecture practicum explores the design of an outdoor environment that inspires guests to connect with the symbolic meaning and/or spiritual message inherent in the natural world, during the wedding ceremony. The shaping of this outdoor environment begins with the notion of ritual procession: the experience of walking through the landscape being as integral to the design as the sanctity of the wedding chapel, or grove, itself. Likewise, building on the landscape's intrinsic qualities, focusing on aspects such as seasonal fluctuation and sensory stimulation as ways to elicit the landscape's emotive, spiritual content is fundamental to the purpose of this designed space. Similarly, the use of archetypal elements are regarded as important in cultivating spirituality and meaning which may be accessible to all people.