romantic navy and burgundy wedding at union pine in southeast portland or
Let me tell you guys something — there is nothing more exciting than looking into your email and seeing an inquiry from someone you know! I was ecstatic to open the email from Heidi informing me that she was looking for assistance planning her destination wedding in Portland, OR. Heidi and Tyler live in Europe, so having someone handle the details in the timezone of where her wedding would occur was essential.
Meeting Heidi and Tyler at my favorite coffee spot in town was heartwarming. You know those people that just radiate love? They’re that couple. They were still that couple when we got all of their family and friends together the night before the wedding to rehearse, dine, and share fellowship with one another. They were still that couple the entire day of their wedding; their great smiles carrying them from one hug and event to the next. “Obviously,” you’re probably thinking — and yes, “obviously” to an extent, but weddings can be stressful! You know this — that’s why you’re here perusing my work. The point is: at a time when they could’ve snapped at each other, or at anyone else, Heidi and Tyler just oozed joy from their very souls.
Let’s get into the goods, shall we? August 17, 2019 started out as all days do — a beautiful day to get married. The girls hung out at a picturesque Air BNB in Portland and Dusti Trent with Portland Makeup + Hair arrived to bring the glam while Bethany with Legally Blonde Too Salon slayed on hair. Josie with Good Seed Floral followed shortly after to drop off bouqs, and bouts, and soon it was time to get dressed! Heidi’s BHLDN gown (purchased at Blue Sky Bridal in Portland) is the perfect mixture of timeless meets modern. I’ve also linked the website where she purchased her tiara here for you because #goals. Marla Cyree of Simply Splendid was the absolute perfect photographer to capture this day. Her talents are unmatched in that light and airy feel!
While the bridal party got ready that morning, we were hard at work at Union/Pine getting everything picture perfect. I had not yet worked at this venue and when I was able to get down for a site walk prior to the big day, I quickly fell in love. U/P is the quintessential Portland venue. If you’re on the hunt and have a guest list of 80-90, I highly recommend checking it out!
This arbor was constructed by Heidi’s family, and seeing it adorned with Good Seed Floral’s artistry was a moment:
The great thing about getting married in a city is that there seem to be dozens of photo ops around for bridal party portraits. Take a peek at this chic squad:
As expected, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house when Heidi and Tyler exchanged vows. They also did a tree planting ceremony and passed their rings around for each guest to bless and pray over. This was an amazing way to include those that supported and uplifted their relationship. This way, everyone was a part of their ceremony.
These benches (and farm tables that you’ll see shortly) were constructed by one of the bridesmaids! If you’re in the PNW area and looking to rent them, shoot me an email and I’ll get you Chelsea’s contact information.
During the ceremony, Field Day PDX was hard at work in the kitchen prepping for cocktail hour and dinner. With details having been delivered earlier from Archive Rentals, I had a seriously stunning tablescape to set up. Guests entered the dining space adorned with chic greenery hanging from the ceiling courtesy of Josie + her team, and found their seats utilizing a seating chart designed by a friend of Heidi’s. This couple is seriously well-traveled, so each table corresponded to a country!
Let’s talk about this cake, you guys. I’m one of “those people” with a gluten allergy, so when I heard the cake was coming from Petunia’s Pies and Pastries (a GF AND Vegan bakery in SW Portland), I was over the moon! Adorned with floral from Good Seed and placed in front of the cutest neon heart ever, it was a definite focal point in the space.
As we move into the merriment section of the evening, believe me when I say that DJ Gregarious was a seriously stellar DJ. He kept the dance floor hopping. Heidi changed into an incredible reception dress (seriously, do YOU know anyone that can look that good in that color?) and the party continued while the stars shown out across north Portland.
At the end of the evening, Heidi and Tyler jetted out in style with a slew of sparklers held by friends and family, and raced away in a PDX Pedicab.
“Hiring Ashley as our day-of-coordinator was the best decision. Not only did she provide a calm presence and make me laugh during stressful moments while planning, she had great advice, and managed our rehearsal and wedding professionally for a seamless (perfect) day! On multiple occasions, Ashley went above and beyond from what I expected of her services. Every hiccup I encountered in my planning, she had a solution. Planning books and blogs all recommend that it starts with hiring the right vendors for your special day. Surrounding yourself with amazing people is so important! Ashley is just that. I highly recommend Alston Mayger Events! Thank you for everything Ashley!”
This party was one for the books and it was a blast to be involved in. Thanks for having me!