bridal fashion, Bridal Gowns, Brides, ceremonies, Couples, Downtown Portland Wedding, Event Venue, Flowers, portland brides, wedding ceremonies, Wedding Ceremony, Wedding Reception, weddings

Best Day Ever for Jessica and Doug

Jessica and DougSeven year sweethearts, Jessica and Doug, exchanged vows yesterday at the West End Theater in downtown PDX. The bride walked down the aisle to Christina Perri’s A Thousand Years and the newlyweds marched out to One Republic’s Good Life.  Navy, tangerine and ivory were the colors of the day. Bridesmaids wore variations of gowns in navy satin and the groomsmen looked sharp in charcoal gray suits, dark blue shirts and navy ties. Following the candlelight ceremony, guests were invited to the upstairs ballroom for cocktail hour and dinner. Special touches for the reception included a large framed seating chart hung on the brick wall outside the ballroom and custom labeled wine bottles indicating table numbers.

After a honeymoon in the Dominican Republic next week, the couple returns to their Portland home on Hayden Island. Congratulations, Mr. & Mrs. Smedley! May the spirit of your “Best Day Ever” remain in your hearts forever.

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Music at the Heart of PDX Wedding

Jen and TomPiano, 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.

Brides, Helpful Hints, Music, Wedding Ceremony, Wedding Gifts, weddings

Haste to the Wedding

Haste to the WeddingCeltic Harp music has been around since the 10th century and although it has had its rise and fall in mainstream popularity, it remains a top choice for weddings. The versatile harp can produce sounds as soft as angel’s wings for processionals, joyful tunes for recessionals and lively jigs for the reception. The music works for small intimate ceremonies as well as mega gatherings. Popular with brides and harp lovers everywhere since its debut in 2000, Haste to the Wedding by Ann Roos presents a a wonderful array of choices for your special day. The gifted harpist released the CD in 2005 and it comes beautifully packaged with a 48-page hardcover book that includes recipes, Celtic toasts, blessings and more. Makes a perfect wedding gift for yourself or a loved one. Click here to read more about the album and listen to sample tracks.

Helpful Hints, Music, weddings

Beautiful Wedding Music

 Inspired choices for your ceremony. This is a wonderful collection of classical favorites – all beautifully arranged and performed. Handel, Vivaldi, Pachelbel and more. Perfect for helping you choose just the right music for your processional and what to play as guests arrive. Lovely for home listening, too.

Hear samples of each piece and/or purchase CD at Amazon.