Aldyn Taylor & Stockton Ackermann

May 3, 2025

Stockton Ackermann got high marks from Aldyn Taylor on their first date when he took her to Armoury D.E. in Deep Ellum to enjoy an old-fashioned or two. “We hit it off instantly,” Aldyn says. The immediate attraction led to a long-term relationship, and three years later, Stockton popped the question during a walk around White Rock Lake. Aldyn accepted and put her unique skill set—she just so happens to have degrees in accounting and studio art from SMU—to use. “I planned the wedding myself,” she says. “I knew exactly the vision I had for the day, and I knew I could execute it.”

While Aldyn’s favorite drink is an old-fashioned, she had designs on a decidedly modern garden party for her big day. The Nasher Sculpture Center was an ideal fit. “I love that it’s this sculptural oasis in the middle of Dallas,” she says. “I wanted to extend that through the decor.” That translated to fresh elements like ikebana-style arrangements in bold and beautiful greens, fruit-forward centerpieces, and an iconic conical cake. She notes that the groom trusted both her spreadsheet skills and creativity from the start. “He was the one I would go to in stressful moments,” she says. “When he finally saw it, he said every single thing I had talked about had come to fruition that day.”

Hole-Hearted

Squares with Two Circles, a bronze sculpture by Barbara Hepworth in the Nasher Sculpture Garden, offers a unique view of the newlyweds.

Whimsy in White

“I wanted the cake to be as modern as the florals, and I wanted something fun and different, so we went with that conical sphere,” says Aldyn. Unrefined Bakery kept the piping minimal on the Italian cream confection, which was adorned with anthuriums and orchids.

A Fruitful Marriage

Fruit centerpieces featured kiwis, limes, and stacked coupes full of apples, pears, and grapes. “They made grand statements, but it was a puzzle for sure to make sure nothing fell,” says florist Hailey Kahn of Venus & Co.

Dream Team

A few select experts helped bring a bride’s carefully laid wedding plans to life.

It can be hard to get people to unite behind a creative endeavor, but not for bride Aldyn Taylor. Florist Hailey Kahn, owner of Venus & Co., admired her focus from the start. “Aldyn read the Nasher in a way I haven’t seen brides read it before,” Hailey says. Together, they collaborated on unique ikebana centerpieces, sculptural bouquets, and artistic fruits designed to stand out without competing with the sculpture garden. Then, day-of coordinator Abi Yarnell of Significant Events of Texas carried out Aldyn’s plans, managing vendors and executing the timeline of events. “Aldyn really knew what the whole day was going to be like,” Abi says. “It was one of the most unique weddings I’ve ever been a part of.”

Guests

150

Signature Cocktails

Old-fashioned, margarita with Tajín

First Dance

“Sweet Symphony” by Joy Oladokun & Chris Stapleton

Menu Highlight

Slow-braised beef short ribs

Honeymoon

Corfu, Greece; and Paris, France