K: I think it’s safe to say, this was our favorite day in San Diego. Brandon and I fully embraced tourist mode and ventured to one of the most well known spots in the city: Balboa Park. The only way I can describe the park is to compare it to New York City’s Central Park in the fact that it has so many different areas, buildings, and opportunities hidden inside. We spent the entire morning there and then took a trip to the world-famous San Diego zoo during the afternoon.
Tourist Mode
K: I fully embraced the stereotypical tourist with my straw hat, constant picture taking, and comfortable shoes. I replaced a fanny pack for my straw bag from last year and opted for a breezy sundress that fits nicely at the waist. This dress kept me cool in the 75 degree weather (an absolute dream) and I kept reminding Brandon at how practical I was with these Joie slip on shoes. I’m fully convinced that they’re my best purchase for spring thus far. They can be worn without a sock, have a thick sole, yet still manage to be adorable. I also found that Nordstrom Rack offers the shoes in multiple colors like navy and this off white color.
The Balboa Park Botanical Garden
B: As far back as I can remember, my mother has filled her house with blooming orchids. My great grandfather bred orchids as a life passion, and even named one variety of orchid after my mother. This same passion for orchids has cultivated its way through my mother and into myself through our time spent together in her green house. Needless to say, my wedding boutonnière was a pure white phalaenopsis orchid.
Lady slipper orchids are my favorite variety, but a close second are cymbidium orchids which are elegantly displayed in the Balboa Park Botanical Garden. The climate of San Diego is quite perfect for a wide spectrum of plant life and I was definitely nerding-out thinking about the numerous orchids on display, and the unaccounted-for dozens of orchids in green houses waiting to bloom to be placed on display for all to see.
K: We had such an amazing time exploring this location. I love any spot that offers variety and Balboa Park sure delivered. The architecture was gorgeous and fascinating; the landscape was breathtaking, and since we went on a Friday morning, it wasn’t terribly crowded. I think it’s safe to say that we didn’t get to everything in the park but Brandon and I certainly enjoyed what we did see!
On Katherine: Nordstrom dress (less than $100!), similar straw hat, Joie shoes, straw bag, Target earrings, Michele watch
On Brandon: Brooks Brothers shirt, Banana Republic pants, Sperry shoes