Washington Park Floral Moments: From Wash Park Boathouse to Worshipful Weddings

Welcome flower lovers! I’m a Denver floral designer who’s been working with blossoms and bouquets in the Mile High City for more than a decade. And let me tell you—when it comes to finding inspiration, there’s no place quite like Denver's Washington Park 701 S Franklin St, Denver, CO 80209.

Whether you’re tying the knot at the historic Boathouse, celebrating a life at one of the neighborhood churches, or just planning a sweet Mother’s Day picnic near Smith Lake, Wash Park (as we locals call it) is full of floral possibilities. Here’s a look at the flowers, styles, and seasonal tips that make this beloved Denver neighborhood bloom.

Weddings at the Washington Park Boathouse: Classic Blooms by Smith Lake

There’s a reason the Washington Park Boathouse  is one of Denver’s most iconic wedding venues. With sweeping views of Smith Lake and manicured gardens, it’s a dream backdrop for your big day. Spring through early fall is peak wedding season here—May to October—when the weather’s just right and local flowers are in full swing.

For lakeside ceremonies and receptions, I often recommend soft, romantic flowers like:

• Peonies (late spring–early summer)

• Garden Roses

• Ranunculus

• Hydrangeas

• Lisianthus

• Delphinium (adds height and whimsy)
  
  

Add eucalyptus or olive branches for greenery and an organic touch. Classic white, blush, and pastel palettes are popular here, but bold jewel tones can be stunning against the Boathouse’s elegant architecture.

Church Weddings in Wash Park: Elegant Florals with Timeless Style

St. John’s Church 700 S Franklin St, Denver, CO 80209 and Washington Park United Methodist Church 1955 E Arizona Ave, Denver, CO 80210 both host weddings throughout in their santuaries. These spaces call for elevated, elegant arrangements that complement their historic interiors.

Think altar sprays, aisle flowers, and pew accents featuring:

• Calla Lilies

• Roses

• Stock

• Baby’s Breath (Gypsophila)

• Orchids for dramatic flair
  
  

Wash Park weddings often include a personal floral touch—like a floral crown for the bride or a custom boutonniere for the groom.

Restoration Church Events: Community and Creativity in Full Bloom

Over on the west side of the park, Restoration Church 1101 S Washington St, Denver, CO 80210 hosts vibrant community gatherings like Encounter Night and Brook Community Night. These events often feature cheerful, welcoming floral displays.

For these, I love incorporating playful seasonal blooms like:

• Sunflowers

• Dahlias (late summer/fall)

• Tulips (spring)

• Carnations and Chrysanthemums
  
  

They add color and joy to spaces meant for connection and reflection.

Floral Tributes: Flowers for Funerals and Memorials

Wash Park’s churches are also places where we say goodbye. For memorial services or to send condolences, popular flower choices include:

• Lilies (symbol of peace and renewal)

• Roses (white for reverence, red for love)

• Gladiolus (strength of character)

• Snapdragons

• Orchids
  
  

Sympathy arrangements tend to use more subdued tones: whites, soft blues, purples, and pale pinks. Wreaths, standing sprays, and casket covers are the most traditional forms.

Mother’s Day in Washington Park: Blooms, Lake Views, and Tennis Dates

One of my favorite Denver Washington Park traditions? Mother’s Day picnics. Picture this: a sunny afternoon near Smith Lake, sandwiches in the basket, and a bouquet of fresh tulips, lilacs, or roses for Mom.

Or maybe your mom’s the sporty type? Bring her flowers at the Washington Park Tennis Center after a morning match—bonus points if you pair it with brunch and a walk through the flower beds near Downing Street.

Seasonal Tips: What’s in Bloom and When

Here’s a quick guide to what’s in season locally:

• Spring (March–May): Tulips, Daffodils, Hyacinth, Ranunculus, Lilacs

• Summer (June–August): Roses, Dahlias, Zinnias, Snapdragons, Sunflowers

• Fall (September–November): Mums, Asters, Marigolds, Hydrangea (late)

• Winter (December–February): Amaryllis, Paperwhites, Poinsettias, Evergreens
  
  

Denver’s altitude and sunshine make for a rich and varied floral calendar. Planning ahead can help you get the best blooms for your event.

A Local Favorite: Bloom by Anuschka

While I’m not affiliated with them personally, I often recommend Bloom by Anuschka 201 University Blvd #123, Denver, CO 80206 to clients and friends looking for exceptional floral design in the area. Their work is consistently beautiful and thoughtfully done. They’re well-known among Wash Park event planners and wedding vendors.

Washington Park: Where Flowers Are A Denver Tradition

From weddings and funerals to faith gatherings and family picnics, Denver's Washington Park is one of the most flower-filled neighborhoods in Denver. It’s a place where life is marked with blossoms—and I’m honored to be a part of that.

Need help picking flowers for your next Wash Park event? Feel free to reach out—I’d love to help you bring your vision to life.

~ Tamika Harris