Everything about yesterday’s wedding at The Oregon Garden was heartfelt fun! Almost 200 guests watched as the bride descended the grand staircase and strolled down the grassy green aisle to her beaming groom. Other than a few sprinkles, the rain graciously subsided for the ceremony which included a rose presentation to both sets of moms and grandmothers; and a tree planting unity ritual. Dinner and dancing followed in the Grand Hall which was decked out in shades of blue and a thousand twinkle lights. Lawn games were provided by the groom’s dad who crafted wooden bean toss sets in green and yellow (bride and groom are both U of O grads). Sets were also gifted to the groomsmen in their team colors. The newlyweds are planning a honeymoon to the tropics in the Fall and meanwhile are enjoying being new homeowners in Tualatin. First on the “to do” list: plant their ceremony pine tree. Congratulations, Jessica and Nathan! May the smiles from your wedding day warm your hearts and bless your home for years and years.
Tag: Jane Green
Intimate Wedding by the Sea
Sunny skies and balmy ocean breezes provided the perfect backdrop for Saturday’s Solstice wedding at The Stephanie Inn in Cannon Beach. The bride was barefoot and beaming as were her attendants: daughters Elena and Sophia and best friend, Nadine (who flew in from Chicago for the weekend). Two unexpected guests arrived just before the ceremony began – a pair of seagulls who perched on the rooftop of the Inn and remained until the vows had been exchanged. Champagne and chocolate mousse cake awaited guests in the library following the seashore nuptials. (An extra treat was provided when the groom and best man brought out their guitars for a family sing along.) Next on the agenda: a gourmet dinner in the Stephanie Inn Dining Room featuring wild caught Oregon salmon and Alaskan halibut. The festive day was crowned by a bonfire on the beach complete with guitar music, a blanket of stars and s’mores. A delicious brunch on Sunday allowed for more laughter and hugs before checkout time. The newlyweds will host a reception in Portland and honeymoon in Peru before returning to their home in Phoenix. Congratulations, Dianna and Peter. May the light and joy of your wedding day remain in your hearts always!
Barn Wedding is a Family Affair
Transforming a barn into a wedding wonderland is no small task. But Scott and Valerie pulled it off with flying colors thanks to family members rolling up their creative sleeves. Every inch of space was utilized with no detail unattended. Twinkle light rafters, ceremony riser, hanging flowers, DJ station, photo booth corner and even a golf cart shuttle service. After the ceremony, refreshments were served in the “saloon” while the tables were set up for dining. Heaters and porch seating kept guests dry and cozy while allowing for sweeping views of the Premore family farm in Eagle Creek. Jars of homemade preserves were provided as the “thank you” to attendees who also enjoyed music and dancing into the night. After a honeymoon in the tropics, the newlyweds return to their PDX home to continue growing their business in aquaphonics. Congratulations, Mr. & Mrs. Wright – may the love that swelled our hearts yesterday be with you always. Fun: I was listed in the program as the “Premore Family Officiant” – I married the bride’s twin sister, Kim, last summer; and her brother, Owen, in 2010. No siblings left … maybe a cousin or two?
Bridal Fashion Week
It’s always interesting to see what the NYT has to say about fashion. Sunday’s review on Bridal Fashion Week was especially fun. Click on the link at the end of this post to view a slide show featuring looks from Oleg Cassini, Monique Lhuillier, Carolina Herrera and more. Spring 2015 doesn’t bring break out innovation but the overall looks are lovely and continue to showcase lace, flowing fabrics and soft draping. Take a peek. (photo courtesy of NYT)
Music at the Heart of PDX Wedding
Piano, organ and vocals from Liszt, Blake and Saint-Saens provided heavenly music for yesterday’s wedding at The Historic Old Church in downtown Portland. Giant tissue blossoms (made by the bride) decorated the aisle and the altar. After exchanging vows, Jennifer and Tom sang If I Had Words to each other and then invited the audience join in. At the reception, guests were treated to a delicious farm fresh menu prepared by the groom. The choices ranged from chicken tea sandwiches and mini-baked potatoes w/crème fraiche to maple syrup bacon crackers w/candied walnuts. Also served were yummy gluten-free cheese puffs baked by the bride’s mom. The couple met in the PSU Music Department and have been together for 12 years. They reside in Beaverton where Jennifer teaches music and Tom is exploring a catering business. Congratulations, Mr. & Mrs. Colett. May the sweet music of your wedding day echo in your hearts forever.
Always and Forever Tea Wedding Favors
Talk about a match made in heaven. Twin infuser pouches by Tea Forte in a customizable gift box for your guests. Always is a green tea blend with citrus tones and Forever combines white tea with ginger and pear. Both packaged side-by-side in an elegant ribbon box. You customize the label online. Even better? The wedding favors are ON SALE! Click here for details. Here’s to sipping happily ever after.
Wedding in the Woods
Surrounded by warm hearts and rich woods, Rachael and Zack exchanged vows this morning at the World Forestry Center in Southwest PDX. The intimate ceremony included acoustic guitar, a reading selection from Winnie the Pooh and a glass breaking ritual with a twist. Glass ornaments were enclosed in silk bags and stomped on by both the bride and groom as well as their young children, Rohan and Roxanna. Friends and family applauded throughout the service – so much love and enthusiasm. With a bow to the past, the bride wore a vintage gown and jewelry and sapphire blue satin pumps. Immediately following the ceremony, guests enjoyed refreshments catered by Elephants and were free to explore the wonderful exhibits at the center. Dinner was held in the evening at Andina’s in NW Portland. Congratulations, Mr. & Mrs. Radick, and may the joy of today’s celebration fill your hearts always.
Note to Brides: Consider venues like this if you have little ones in your wedding party or attending with guests. It’s a great way to keep them entertained.
Bridal Show Warms Hearts
Heartfelt thanks to all the lovely brides who modeled at the wedding showcase last Saturday at The Historic Old Church. Wonderful feedback from the folks in the audience who were blown away by the gorgeous gowns and bargain prices. And the surprise renewal of vows that closed the fashion show made the day all the more special. It was an honor to emcee this event and help raise awareness and support for the prevention of human trafficking in Portland. Missed the show? You can still get the formal or bridal dress of your dreams for a dreamy price. Click here for store hours and location: Adorned in Grace.
Japanese Songstress Weds Sweetheart
The temperature was frosty but the fog lifted and the sun shone for today’s intimate wedding along the Willamette. Chie (chee-a), lead singer with Japanese pop band, CICCAROLL, wore a crown of red roses to match her dress (brides wear red at traditional Japanese weddings). Bridegroom, Casey, arranged for family and friends to gather at the Oaks Park dog park for the ceremony which was followed by toasts to the newlyweds at The Lucky Lab Brew Pub. Raised in Japan, Casey, who is in the insurance business, speaks the language fluently. The couple is looking forward to making their permanent home in Japan. Their English Bulldog, Matilda Mae, will be making the journey, too. Congratulations, Mr. & Mrs. Shelton. May happiness be with you and love surround you here and in the land of the rising sun. Yoi ryokō o!
Couples Choice Award for 2014 from WeddingWire!
Exciting news! A Festive Heart has won the WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Award for 2014! The award recognizes the top 5% of wedding professionals nationwide. Thanks to all my brides and everyone who had a part in making this happen.
A FESTIVE HEART 