TBT: WESTON GARDENS

 Day 3 wasn't over yet for what kind of gardeners would we be to pass up an opportunity to go plant shopping at a very unique place called Weston Gardens known for its landscaping, garden center and being a wedding venue with photo ops galore.

No way to forget we were in the South to be welcomed with a big 'ole 

The Westons both had had other jobs but envisioned and wanted to run a garden center having their home garden as a demonstration garden starting which came to fruition in 1988. It was Mrs. Weston who shared their story with us and how her son now runs the business since her husband passed.  Yet, Randy Weston's memory lives on in his work and with quotes like "Gardens don't just happen, they start with a plan."

We got to witness and experience their vision. From their colorful garden center displays and healthy plants to demonstration gardens across the street...

 One of my favorite displays was their wonderful seasonal pumpkin wall ...

And as another person's popular quote states "Build it and they will come." So have many folks like us come to view and shop and even wed on the property. 

One can't leave without being inspired. 

 After one crosses the street from the retail shop one can stroll through the demo gardens which originally were the private home of Peggy and Leon Bandy. In the old days it was a popular spot for folks from Fort Worth to come for dances and go swimming. Now many weddings also take place amidst the different stone creations of stairs, paths and fountains.

A once very popular swimming hole and the Stone ship was used for dances and parties in 1942.  Unfortunately it burnt down after a raucous teenage party. It was rebuilt by the Westons in 2013.

stone fountain

There's the original house, lily pond, wisteria arbor, shade garden, patio and  wedding court and lower gardens.

The infamous Turks Cap

The historic New England Barn was built in the 1920's by the Bandys who used to stable their horses here with an unusual floor of Bois d'arc wood bricks. 

In great disrepair it was the first restoration project of the Westons who now use it as a bridal suite for their many weddings.

The grounds were very inviting with very charming touches. 

Best of all Weston Gardens was a perfect place to sit after a full day of touring and enjoy the late summer day amidst the lush foliage...