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Dustin & Anne

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I knew when Anne first contacted me, her wedding would be the most intricate, detailed, and organized wedding. Being a wedding planner herself, she knew far ahead of time every detail and I loved it!

Their day started off with the girls drinking champagne in the cozy cottage on site, well the guys cracked some beers and played some pool.

I've never seen such amazing work on florals. They had a team of 10+ people hanging florals on every tree, branch, bike, you name it, allllll day before go-time. It was crazy to see it all come together and witness their craft.
Their wedding was unique because it was considered a "vow renewal," as they have already been married for a year. How fun, though, that they finally got a glorious wedding day to celebrate with all of their loved ones! And an extremely beautiful one, at that.
Every detail of the day was amazing, from the florals to the blown-up handwritten vows on canvas hanging from a tree, to the choreographed dance routine that Anne and her bridesmaids did at the reception (must watch in the video!). Their film was quite fun to put together as their dance party all evening was a riot, as well. These people know how to dance!
See for yourself at the end of their wedding film ;)

I also couldn't help but snap just a few (random) photos throughout the day, so here a couple still glimpses into their day, as well, below.

Anne and Dustin, thank you so much for choosing me to capture the essence of your vow renewal wedding day. It was beautiful, fun, and SO you guys! I adore you two, congratulations!

Sydney and Chad

RPImagery-5441.jpg

Sydney and Chad had a beautiful, elegant wedding at the Foundry in Lake Oswego.

They started the day out by getting ready at the little hotel across the street, right on the water. The morning consisted of lots of girl time and many mimosas. 

Their ceremony was right out on the water, and as they said their "I-do's," several folks out on their boats cruising by were even celebrating with all of us, hooting and hollering for them. It was a sweet and intimate ceremony. Cocktail hour was one of my favorite parts of the day, there were so many sweet couples, delicious appetizers, and all around happy people on a lovely deck sipping cocktails. The rest of the evening was definitely one of the greatest dance parties I've ever seen at a wedding. Their friends certainly know how to get down on the dance floor!

Sydney and Chad, thank you so much for choosing me to capture your beautiful wedding day. It has been a priviledge getting to know you guys, and I wish you the happiest life together!

Gabe & Madelyn

We started out Gabe and Madelyn's wedding day with Madelyn and her girls getting ready in her childhood bedroom that she grew up in... so cute... while they boys went out boating. It was a lovely, relaxing morning and my favorite part was her bridesmaids tearing up every 15 minutes. Sharing stories of the past, talking about the moments about to happen, Madelyn putting on her dress, so many tears.

There are so many favorites moments that I have from Gabe and Madelyn's wedding day. I'm just going to point out though that my favorite general theme of the entire day was FAMILY. I love how intertwined both Gabe and Madelyn's family and friends already are, but I guess that's what happens when you've been together for 7 years, since sophomore year of high school.

Gabe's family friends are already besties with Madelyn's family friends. Gabe's dad already treats Madelyn like the daughter he never had (truly... he only has 4 boys), Gabe makes Madelyn's mom laugh so hard (it's the cutest thing ever), and I love how both Gabe's dad and Madelyn's dad gave each other pats on the back and hugs continually throughout the whole day (see the photo of Gabe and Madelyn about to sign their marriage license and the dads hugging in the background as it's becoming official)! Truly though... the saying, "two families become one" was 100% in full effect already on their wedding day. So much family. So many tears. So many embraces.

From the beginning of the day until the end, EVERYBODY was embracing each other. Even throughout the entire evening of dancing.... and not even just the slow songs. Everyone constantly had their arms around each other, it was quite the celebration! Rightfully so, I took about 5x the amount of dancing photos that I normally take at a wedding.... and that's a lot. A favorite "embrace moment" was after the mother-son dance, the rest of Gabe's brothers came over and hugged their teary eyed mama, then Gabe's dad joined in, and then Madelyn, and then Madelyn's parents, pretty soon it was a 25 person embrace.

Gabe and Madelyn, I can honestly say your wedding day was the SMOOTHEST, most laid back, most joyful wedding I've ever captured. I truly believe your wedding day was a perfect reflection of the way you two love each other. It's raw, it's goofy, it's warm, it's devoted, affectionate, and knows no boundaries. I love your love ;) It was a pleasure being a part of your day.
MUCH LOVE.

Photography: RP Imagery

Catering: Famous Dave's

Bar: The Waitstaff

Cake: Rosycakes

DJ: Bust a Move

Flowers: Paige Beall

Rentals: Your Party and Event Center

Venue: Brickstone Ballroom

Rachel & Tyler

Rachel and Tyler got married on a beautiful July early evening at one of my favorite Seattle area venues, Trinity Tree Farm, in Issaquah, WA.

These two have an infectious kind of love that truly stems from friendship. Their officiant, and also friend, that married them had the kindest things to see about their commitment and friendship together. Rachel's mom spoke about their relationship being rooted in not only a solid friendship, but also Christ as well. Hearing from so many of their loved ones at the reception was a true testament to how treasured these two are by their friends and family.

Rachel had every detail of the day planned to perfection, and it was perfectly executed, as well! I've never seen a bride do it so well all on her own. Rachel, you are amazing!

Thank you guys for trusting me to capture this beautiful day for you guys, and all of the special moments that happened. It was a true honor! You two have such an admirable relationship, I can only imagine how blessed you will be in your marriage and journey together for the rest of your lifetime. Congratulations!

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT SOME OF MY FAVORITE PHOTOS FROM THE TALENTED PHOTOGRAPHER OF THEIR DAY, JAKE LAND:

Dane & Angie

Two of Western Washington University's most athletic alumnis and Bellingham's finest tied the knot and I couldn't have been more honored to capture their amazing day!

Dane was co-captain of our WWU Vikings Basketball team in 2014 while Angie was a star and co-captain of the volleyball team. These two are a dynamic duo to say the least, I can only imagine how athletic their kids will be ;)

Anyways, on to their BEAUTIFUL wedding day. Angie and Dane got married on Angie's parents property, where Angie grew up, and as she says "is the place who made her who she is today, where she learned to ride a bike and home of so many other firsts."  It sounds like their was a lot of hesitation in the beginning of wedding planning whether to host 200 guests on their home property or not, but I am so glad they went with it! It turned out so spectacular, and incredibly special. Their property, complete with pond, in Lynden, WA is beyond beautiful, and was truly the perfect setting for their wedding day.

Talk about beautiful... Dane and Angie. The couple that didn't want to have an engagement session because they are "not good" and uncomfortable in front of the camera? PLEASE. I forced them to have a mini photo session the night before their wedding, at their rehearsal, because I couldn't myself. They are too beautiful! Am I right, or am I right?

It was fun to see how everything came together so well. Their shop was transformed into this magical little country western atmosphere, complete with hay bails, cowhides, boots, and bourban. A special champagne bottle was popped, toasts were made, and the celebration carried on through the entire evening.

My favorite part of this wedding day was how much I felt God's presence through it all. From the relaxed morning Angie and her bridesmaids had getting ready, to the laid-back flow of the entire day, to the way Dane simply looks at Angie, to the examples of both of their parents' marriages, and in the way every single friend and family is in full support of their union. Specifically, my favorite "God moment" of the day was during the ceremony, when Dane and Angie quietly prayed together... in front of 200+ of their friends and family, but were completely in their own little world, in a perfect moment with God. It was so beautiful, I cried. Not uncommon for me though, ha. 

My other favorite moment of the day was when I dragged the two of them away from their party so I could capture more pretty sunset photos of them, and Dane simply asked if they could just sit on his tailgate. Angie let out a big sigh of relief, smiled and kissed her new husband. Professionally speaking... the truck wasn't my first choice, "not what I had in mind, Dane"... but how could you say no to that? They were so stoked to have a beer on his tailgate together, just the two of them, newly husband and wife. It was a neat moment, and actually some of my absolute favorite photos from the day. From this, I learned that it's not always about the perfect background, but the perfect moment. Noted. Thanks, Dane!

Dane and Angie, thank you for letting me capture one of the best days of your life! You are a truly beautiful couple, both inside and out. You compliment each other so well, and are the definition of "couple goals." I adore you guys, and can't wait to see what God has in store for your marriage!

Florals - Flowers by Jan Knutson
Catering - Back East BBQ
Dress - Lydia by Calla Blanche 
Suits - Macys
Coordinator - Janell Neevel
Cake & Cupcakes- Cathie Wright
DJ - GMB Entertainment - Linda Castro - DJ Little

Videographer - Dakota Buttrey
Appetizers - Kurly's French Fry Kart
Beverages - Walton Beverage & Sound Beverage
Rentals - Wander Event Rentals (peacock wicker chairs)
Table & Chairs - Bellingham Event Rentals
Hair & Makeup - Caroline Ashton - Lancome
Outhouses - Ideal Rent-All

Austin & Katie

I've known Austin since he was about 6 years old... running around Zion Lutheran Church's play area. I have this one image in my mind from our childhood of him sliding down the 5 foot slide and showing his friends "how it was done." Haha!
Anyways, seeing him as a young man now and watching him love Katie is probably my favorite new image. These two are MEANT for each other. Katie and Austin actually grew up around each other, their mothers being best friends, and Austin playing on Katie's brothers' little league teams, having sleepovers, and whatnot. They didn't actually date until Austin decided to ask her out one day when they reconnected in their college years. Anyways, you can watch their love story film to learn more about that... On to their magical wedding day!
Youngberg Hill Vineyards is one of the prettiest places I've shot at. Epic views! They wed with a glorious backdrop behind them, both a green valley and a beautiful floral cross. Their vows were so intimate, their mothers' tears were so sweet, and Katie's father's toast in particular was one for the books! The party was such a fun celebration, Katie and Austin are incredibly loved by all of their friends and family... it is so evident in the hugs and embraces and conversations between everyone! 

Katie and Austin, thank you for trusting me to capture your wedding day. I love the way you two love each other. It's sweet, tender, flirty, genuine, and STEADFAST. Your journey has only just begun! Love you guys. XO

Check out some of my favorite photos from their wedding day (by Baylee Dennis) below:

Venue- Youngberg Hill

Day of Coordinator- Stargazer Weddings

Florist- Roths Floral

Makeup Artist- Candace Smouse

Hairstylist- Larissa Hillman

Photographer- Baylee Dennis

Videographer - RP Imagery

Officiant- Jim Stump

Catering- Roths Catering

Bartenders and Services- Youngberg hill

Cake- Roths Bakery

Bridal dress- The White Dress

Bridesmaid dresses- Lulus

Men's attire- Men's Warehouse 

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Styled Elopement in the Gorge

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If I'm being honest, traveling is my absolute favorite past time in my "off-season" of November-May. However, every once in awhile, us PNW creatives have to get our "wedding fix" in come mid-off-season time ;) Baylee, Jessica, and I had been discussing the idea of a styled shoot for awhile... This has definitely been in the works, folks! Huge props to Baylee for honing in on all of her connections and really coordinating the whole thing in order to make this dream a reality!

In truth, we had tossed so many ideas around over the course of about 6 months, and everything came together beautifully as if it was meant to be, just in the last week or two of the shoot. Our models - STUNNING, and so much fun to work with! They were a perfect fit, a real life couple, sweet and funny, and so passionate about it each other, that it made for a very romantic outcome in the imagery. Baylee and Jess photographed the entire day, whom made for a killer photographer duo. I filmed obviously, and was so stoked to put together this film, I hope you liked it! We are so thankful to all of our vendors who participated, please check them out in the links below! And enjoy this combination of imagery from both Baylee and Jess:

Coordination and Photography: Baylee Dennis 
Photography: Jessica Heron Images
Models: Bailey O'bar and Kevin Bacewich
Hair & MUA: Mallory Savery
Wedding Gown: Cocoon Silk in Portland, OR
Florals: Your Flower Friends
Jewelry: Rageda's Jewelers
Venue: The Gorge... No better place than the PNW ;)

Here are just a few "behind-the-scenes" shots that I took while filming:

All in all, it was such a fabulous day! Despite cutting my finger open, getting a flat tire, Bailey rolling her ankle, all of us pushing our car stuck in snow, and painful frozen fingers and toes later... we were completely blessed with beautiful weather and just the right amount of wind, and all of us had so much fun together. It honestly couldn't have been more perfect. Thanks again to all of our talented and amazing vendors!

Travis & Tonicha

Where do I start with Tonicha and Travis? I was lucky enough to become Tonicha's "first friend" when she moved to WA (thank you Sharon for knowing that we would become instant besties) and we immediately connected on a lot of different levels. Similar to what Sharon said at the rehearsal dinner, I, as well, have only known them both TOGETHER... As long as I've known Tonicha, I've known Travis, and I cannot imagine Tonicha without Travis. They compliment each other extremely well and it's obvious that God designed them for each other.

Their wedding took place at Reinstein Ranch in Livermore, CA. This was the first wedding that I handed the majority of the reins over to my two lovely assistants, who flew down to CA to capture their day, and I was able to just enjoy the wedding day as one of their guests, it was fabulous, and a "first" for me in awhile! - to be able to sit back and soak up a wedding day without having to capture it all...although I obviously love to capture weddings, too! ;)

Anyways, HUGE shoutout to Katelyn and Ellie for absolutely killin' it! The couple of times throughout the day that I tried to micro-manage a little bit, they both shoved me away saying "Rachel! We got this. You go have fun!" This is why I love them. And shout-out to Seth, who drove down from WA and arrived just in time to capture epic aerial footage. To my friend, Gerry, who was my +1 to their wedding after our long week of hiking and camping in Yosemite. To my new sweet little friend, Annika, who danced the night away with me.

Thank you to Shelby Payne who photographed their wedding, beautiful work as always. Last enormous thank you to "Auntie" Melissa who did all of the floral work, which turned out perfect. 

Although I wasn't the photographer, I still took some random photos at their rehearsal and rehearsal dinner, and just a few at the wedding that I wanted to share in this blog post along with their wedding film. It was such an amazing weekend! 

Travis and Tonicha - I love you guys immensely. Thank you for having me be a big part of one of the the most beautiful days of your lives! It was very special to me, and I'm even more thankful to be a part of your lives. 

And a few fun photos from Shelby as well...

I was actually Tonicha and Travis' roommate for awhile last year so I had access to their home luckily, therefore I secretly threw together a little "preview wedding film" for them to come home to from their honeymoon a week after their wedding. I got Travis' dad, Mike, to bring his projector over, I framed some of Shelby's photos that I had her send over early, and I decorated the front room, and let's just say there was the usual amount of tears from Tonicha when they walked in :) Check out their reaction:

Connor & Kelsey

I couldn't have ended my 2016 wedding season with a better wedding, truly. Despite the fact that there were thunderstorms and it rained all day, nobody cared, and everything was perfect.

This was a great example of a wedding day where the goal was to just have fun and celebrate. Everything came together beautifully, but it seriously was just SO.MUCH.FUN!!

Throughout the day, the entire bridal party had me laughing. Both Connor and Kelsey's reaction to seeing each other for the first time as Kelsey's dad walked her down the aisle was priceless. I've never seen a bride tear up at the first sight of her bridal bouquet, that was a first, Kelsey-I love you haha!! The rainy photos actually turned out quite fun. The dinner was absolutely delicious and one of the best catered wedding dinners I've had. The dancing and party into the night was outrageous. Everyone was delightful, I can keep going on and on and on.

Kelsey and Connor - thank you for choosing me to capture your perfect wedding day. I will forever rave about how awesome of a wedding you had and how incredible it was to be a part of it.

Love you guys!

Venue: The Evergreen PDX and Loyal Legion Bar

Catering: Elephants Deli Catering

Cake: RosyCakes

Florals: Sammy's Flowers

Men's Attire: Men's Warehouse

Bridesmaid Dresses: The White Dress

Bridal Gown: Bridal Exclusives

Hair and Makeup: Dosha Salon

 

 

Claude & Tuyen

I met Claude and Tuyen when I was working at 24 Hour Fitness in 2013. They are avid gym goers and both very inspiring individuals. They actually met themselves at 24, too! Be sure to watch their wedding film at the end, it's absolutely adorable to hear Claude describe the first time he laid eyes on Tuyen at the gym. 

They are such a fun couple and they truly radiate so much joy, check out their fun engagement session we did HERE

Their wedding was even more fun! We started out with their beautiful morning ceremony at Leach Botanical Gardens with their close family and friends. We then moved to HK Cafe later in the afternoon for the traditional "Tea Ceremony," before all 200+ of their other family/friends arrived for the celebration. And it was QUITE the celebration! It was an evening full of live music, cultural foods, family traditions, drinks, dancing, children's laughter, and great times! Claude and Tuyen, thank you for choosing me to capture your wedding, it was such an honor to be a part of the whole day and witness how truly loved you two are!

Eddy & Katie

Eddy and Katie got married at the beautiful Cape Horn Estate in Stevenson, WA. What started as a cloudy, rainy day ended up turning into the perfect afternoon and evening. The girls began getting ready at Katie's sister house, and then we headed to the venue to get dresses on and hang out in the gorgeous bridal suite while the guys started getting ready, too.

All of the little details of their day were simple, but beautiful. Some of my favorite moments of the day included: Their first look (so tender!), the kiddos (so cute!), hanging out with bridal party (so entertaining!), a song they dedicated to Katie's grandparents which Katie's grandma was able to get up out of her wheelchair and dance for a little bit (absolutely priceless!), Eddy getting choked up thanking everyone for being there, and his friends getting up to bear hug him after (so sweet!), and of course the dancing the lasted all night long.

This was one of those weddings that I did not want to end. The happiness and joy amongst everybody was so contagious throughout the entire day. 

Eddy and Katie, thank you for letting me capture your beautiful day! I adore you guys and it was a pleasure to get to spend time with and get to know all of your awesome friends and family.

Nate & Molly's Wedding Film

It's not often a couple gets married who met in PRE-SCHOOL. Nate and Molly are completely compatible and truly bring out the best in one another, their friends also seem to think they are a bit weird.. but it's evident that this is what makes them a unique, crazy-in-love couple.

Nate's best friend/best man started off with a Dr. Seuss quote, which seems to fit the couple perfectly: "“We are all a little weird and life's a little weird, and when we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall in mutual weirdness and call it love.”

Nate and Molly have an infectious kind of love and it was a complete honor to be a part of the best day of their lives. Their wedding was BEAUTIFUL. I hope you enjoy their wedding film!

Venue: The Reserve Vineyards and Golf Club Planner: Donna Cole with Pearl and Roses Wedding Planning Florist: Swoon Floral Design DJ: Chad Dowling Productions Chalkboard Art: Letters and Dust Photographer: ANIKO Productions Cake: Sugar Cubed Cake Creations Hair: Jessica Watts Make-Up: Kim King Makeup Dress: Bridal Exclusives Suits: Mens Wearhouse Luxury Car: White Cloud Luxury Cars ANIKO Productions captured beautiful photos from their day, check them out here: http://www.anikoproductions.com/reserve-wedding-molly-nate/

Venue: The Reserve Vineyards and Golf Club
Planner: Donna Cole with Pearl and Roses Wedding Planning
Florist: Swoon Floral Design
DJ: Chad Dowling Productions
Chalkboard Art: Letters and Dust
Photographer: ANIKO Productions
Cake: Sugar Cubed Cake Creations
Hair: Jessica Watts
Make-Up: Kim King Makeup
Dress: Bridal Exclusives
Suits: Mens Wearhouse
Luxury Car: White Cloud Luxury Cars

ANIKO Productions captured beautiful photos from their day, check them out HERE.

Taylor & Kelsey

You may remember this adorable due from when I got to do their winter engagement session and love story in late 2015... Their love story can be found here.

Taylor and Kelsey had a beautiful wedding day at the Red Barn Studios. It started off as a rainy, dreary day but nobody minded. The younger girls were still chasing both chickens and kittens around the farm, the bridesmaids still had smiles on their faces as they got ready, and the guys were still cracking jokes as they got ready together in a 10X10 sq. foot shack (if that)! Then, magically the clouds parted for us when it was time for Taylor and Kelsey to do their first look. God has peculiar timing like that :)

The rain decided to fall again shortly after, but it didn't matter! Although we had to move the ceremony to inside the barn... it was still an unforgettable wedding ceremony. Seriously... their vows to each other were so, so beautiful, it didn't matter WHERE they said them, it was the most beautiful ceremony. Taylor and Kelsey have been together for 7 years... since they were 15 and 16 years old... so they have so many memories together and so much life built up together, it was fascinating to hear all they had to say about their history, their love for each other, and their promises for their future together as husband and wife on their journey ahead.

If you just walked into their reception, you would have no idea who was family with who, and I loved that their families were already so intertwined after 7 years, that it was literally just one big family. Both sides of siblings are basically already siblings, it's the cutest thing!


I have to say though, one of my favorite moments of the whole entire day was when I looked around the lively, crowded, joy-filled room of dancing and socializing and noticed that Taylor and Kelsey were no where to be found... I wandered outside to find them enjoying the last few moments of daylight in these cute white chairs on the back porch of the barn, just by themselves, enjoying each other, holding hands in silence, and soaking up the last few moments of their wedding day just together. It was sweet, it was intimate, I snapped a few photos, and let them be.

Taylor and Kelsey, your wedding day was so beautiful. I admire the love and respect that you guys have for each other, and you are a true example of what life long love / best friendship should look like! The combination is a true treasure. Thank you for letting me capture it all, I hope you enjoy the photos and the video. Much love.

 

Colin & Kyleigh

Colin and Kyleigh's wedding was one of my favorite 2016 weddings! I had never heard of their venue before, but was ecstatic to find out it was 5 minutes away from my house in Brush Prairie. Jaquot Farm and Vineyards is a lovely little farm and vineyard tucked onto a couple acres in the NW part of Vancouver, WA. I loved the vibe that it gave: low-key farm with real cows with some classy vineyard feel too. 
 

Their wedding style matched the venue perfectly too - it was exactly what I think of when I hear "rustic glam." The bridesmaid dresses were an assortment coming from all different stores, one even being custom maid in Thailand. Cynthia from Flower Friends, did an amazing job as always on the GORGEOUS florals.. seriously, they were breathtaking. One of my favorite moments of the day leading up to the ceremony was when Colin showed all of their sisters, as well his mom, Kyleigh's custom ring that had sentimental value to it, which Kyleigh hadn't even seen yet. So special! 

I enjoyed how laid back the entire day was. All of the "getting ready" took place on a family friends' ranch, which provided a separate place for the guys to get ready in addition to the cutest little farm house I've ever seen for the girls. This was a photographer's dream to be able to walk back and forth or hop in the back of a truck to go between the guys and the girls, it was great! And what bride does all of her bridesmaids' hair?! Kyleigh works at a salon, so she did most of her bridesmaids' hair, no big deal. Even the reception was totally laid back and included feeding apples to cows, playing in the bubble machine, lots of dancing, and a whole lot of laughter and love. Thankfully, this laid-back atmosphere allowed me to steal away Colin and Kyleigh during the middle of the reception and frolic around the vineyard taking sunset photos with just the two of them. I adore you Kyleigh and Colin, and am so thankful you chose me to capture your beautiful day! I wish you a lifetime of as much love and happiness as what surrounded you on your wedding day, you guys are so loved.

Vendors who contributed to their dream day:

Catering & Rentals: As You Wish NW

Hair & Makeup: Jennifer Hilderband & Kate Pfeiffer

Florals: Your Flower Friends

Venue: Jacquot Farm & Vineyards

Matt & Mackenzie

I first met Mackenzie at the Willamette Bi-mart Country Music Festival a coupe years ago through mutual friends and instantly knew that I was going to love her. She is so adorable, outgoing, sweet, funny, loves country music, it was totally meant to be ;) So of course I was thrilled when Mackenzie and Matt asked me to capture their wedding about a year later, once they got engaged!

They got married at Events on 6th in Tacoma, but first we started with the girls getting ready at the cutest little salon, called Chemel (seriously cutest salon ever!). It was a relaxed morning and it was fun to get to know all of Mackenzie's awesome friends and sisters as they sipped mimosas and got all beautified. Matt and Mackenzie had one of the sweetest "First Looks" too. They opted to have a semi-private moment for their First Look in the church, right where they were about to say their "i do's" in a few hours. The look on not only Matt's face when he turned around and saw her for the first time, but the look on their parents faces watching from afar.. was SO priceless! It was such a sweet moment between them, amongst both of their parents... I loved how they did that, very special.

Mackenzie's first look with her dad was also a favorite moment of the day, along with some of the cousins' dance moves at the reception, the whole bridal party was a hoot and so much fun, and I couldn't get over how stinkin' cute the flower girls and ring bearers were... I probably took way too many pictures of them! 

Matt and Mackenzie, thank you for choosing me to capture your day. It was an honor and I had so much fun! You guys are MY type of couple that I truly feel fortunate to have come across because I'm thrilled to be able to call you guys friends as well.

OTHER VENDORS WHO HELPED MAKE THEIR WEDDING DAY A DREAM:

Cake // Jenn’s Sweet Cakes 

Flowers // " I Do” Flowers by Wendy

Venue // Events on 6th

Catering // Christie’s Catering

Dress // Belltown Bride 

DJ // We Heart Weddings 

Décor // American Party Place 

Salon // Chemele Salon 

 

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Yosemite Elopement

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No, this couple did not hire me to take their wedding photos and no, I did not know this couple until approximately 5 minutes before they said "I do."

We met by pure serendipity; and for me, it was simply being in the right place at the right time.

I was on a personal 6 day hiking/camping trip in the beautiful Yosemite National Park. I found this spectacular spot at Taft Point (in the Park) to watch the sunset on the first evening that I was there, and had returned to that spot for every sunset there after. On the last night, I was stoked to have the best seat at Taft Point (a random rock), to watch the sun set, only to have this handsome gentleman tap me on the shoulder and politely ask me to move so that he could get married there in a few minutes.

I, of course, moved right away and then looked around to realize that it was him, his bride, and a couple of their buddies (dog included), but no cameras. The setting was one of the most stunning views I've ever seen in my life, and they were about to get married, and not have any of it captured?! I could not believe it. I had my camera with me, naturally, and I thought about offering to take a few pics of their elopement, but ultimately decided that maybe they just wanted a private moment. Thankfully, the friend I was with is super outgoing and has this contagious spontaneity about him, and casually offered up my photography services for me. "Do you guys have a photographer? Well perfect, RACHEL happens to be a wedding photographer and has her camera with her!" Charley's eye's lit up a bit and I could tell he was beyond thrilled with the irony of this moment, he exclaimed over to his bride who was getting her dress on, "BABE, GUESS WHAT?!! We have a wedding photographer!!"

Their good friend officiated, it was short and sweet, and they sealed it with a kiss at sunset. What a way to get married! When I asked them why they chose Taft Point, Charley mentioned that it was just special to them (and I would find out later why). They are definitely a very outgoing, adventuresome couple and even after only knowing them for just a few minutes, I found their elopement to be very fitting for them.

A few days ago when I shared the images with Charley and Elle, I received not only the gift of their gratitude and kind words, but Charley shared with me the back-story as to why they got married at Taft, and why exactly it is so special to him. 

"I've been a base jumper/wingsuit flier for quite awhile. Two of my best friends, who unfortunately died last year jumping (they were very famous climbers you may have heard about), opened the jump at Taft Point together. It's always been one of my very favorite places in the world. I quit jumping after they passed away, and I wanted to make Taft a special, positive memory again, and you helped do that. Thank you so much for more than just wedding photos."     -Charley

I had heard about the fatal accident last year , but while photographing Charley and Elle's elopement September 8th this year, had no idea of the relation or even of the exact location (of which I was standing). After finding this out, I realized how much of a "God moment" this truly was. That out of all of the days in the year, I happened to be in Yosemite Park, specifically at Taft Point, the same day, in the same 20 minutes, that Charley and Elle eloped. I feel incredibly humbled, grateful, lucky, blessed, etc. that God put me at Taft in that moment to not only capture their magical "i do's" but to just meet them in general! Besides, how gorgeous are they?!

Rad couple, epic setting, captivating sunset, and perfect elopement!

Well done Charley and Elle, well done. I wish you guys many beautiful sunsets, many epic life adventures, and all kinds of continued serendipity in your future as husband and wife.

Disclaimer:
This was a spur of the moment video clip that I decided to randomly take while I was *spur-of-the-moment* photographing their elopement. No stabilization or audio equipment was used and I also had several bees swarming my head while I was trying to film, haha! This film is not meant to be a reflection of my wedding videography, but something I just did on my personal time. It was originally meant for just the couple - but I actually thought it was too cute not to share :)

On my very last evening of our 6 day camping/hiking trip in Yosemite National Park, I was excited to snag the best spot at Taft Point to watch the sun set. As the sun was a few minutes away from going down, this fine gentleman tapped us on the shoulder and politely asked us if we could possibly move since he wanted to get married there in about 10 minutes. Of course we moved! But then realizing they did not have anybody to capture this epic elopement that was about to happen in the most captivating setting, I offered to snap a few photos for them; since I, of course, had my camera. About half way through the "ceremony," that their good friend was officiating, I figured I might as well take a short little video for them as well, just something fun to have to remember this by. It was awesome getting to briefly meet Charley and Elle, and even more awesome to get to witness/capture their elopement. They are a pretty rad couple and I wish them the most happiness! Disclaimer: This was a spur of the moment video clip I decided to take while I was *spur-of-the-moment* also photographing their elopement. No stabilization or audio equipment was used and I also had several bees swarming around my head while I was trying to film! This film is not meant to be a reflection of my wedding videography, but something I just did on my personal time (as I was in the right place at the right time) and it is originally meant for just the couple - but I actually thought it was too cute to not share :)

I was blown away that Charley was a wingsuit flier, then to hear about the story of his dear friends, Dean Potter and Graham Hunt, opening up the Taft jump together. I didn't even know base-jumping/wingsuit flying was a thing, so I casually did my research and have been thoroughly intrigued with learning about this hobby more and more ever since (don't worry Mom, I'm not going to try it). Charley was too humble of a guy to tell me, but I googled him a bit (Sorry Charley!), and found out that he is 1 of 10 people worldwide who has over 2,000 jumps under his harness, from all over the world. How incredible is that?! Anyways, I thought I'd share some more insight for those of you who also know nothing about this insanely awesome hobby and/or are as intrigued and inspired as I am (click on links to open up videos/articles):

Base-Jumping

Charley-And-Friends-Flying

BASE-World-Tour-With-Charley

About-Charley-Kurlinkus

About-Dean-Potter

About-Graham-Hunt

Griffin & Jeni

Griffin and Jeni had the most beautiful wedding day in Chelan, WA at Rio Vista Winery. The setting was gorgeous, their family and friends were the sweetest, and their letters and vows to one another were so special. Some of my favorite parts of their day included the cement hand-printing they did during their ceremony (see in film!), their gifts to each other, all of the beautiful woodwork Jeni did herself (including the photo memory board), their sparkler first dance, Griff singing to Jeni at the reception, which was totally not planned, but so cute! And so, so much more. Instead of trying to explain how amazing their day truly was, you should just watch their full 10 minute wedding film at the end of this post! Much love to them and wishing them all of the happiness in the world on their next adventure of marriage. 

CLICK **HD** 1080P TO WATCH IN HIGHEST QUALITY

Venue: Rio Vista Winery // http://www.lakechelanwinevalley.com/wineries/rio-vista-wines/ Coordination: J9Bing Floral & Event Planning // http://j9bing.com/ Rentals: Lake Chelan Wedding Rentals // http://lakechelanweddingrentals.com/ Cake & Linens: Dana Divis Events // https://www.facebook.com/danadivisevents/ Catering: Janice Madden & Bart Northcutt DJ: All That Mobile DJ // http://www.allthatmobiledj1.com/ Florals: Fleur de lis floral & Event Design // http://lakechelanflowers.com/ Photobooth: Cascade PhotoArcade // https://www.facebook.com/CascadePhotoArcade/ Photography/Videography: RP Imagery // www.rpimagery.com

Venue: Rio Vista Winery // lakechelanwinevalley.com/wineries/rio-vista-wines/
Coordination: J9Bing Floral & Event Planning // j9bing.com/
Rentals: Lake Chelan Wedding Rentals // lakechelanweddingrentals.com/
Cake & Linens: Dana Divis Events // facebook.com/danadivisevents/
Catering: Janice Madden & Bart Northcutt
DJ: All That Mobile DJ // allthatmobiledj1.com/
Florals: Fleur de lis floral & Event Design // lakechelanflowers.com/
Photobooth: Cascade PhotoArcade // facebook.com/CascadePhotoArcade/

Photography/Videography: RP Imagery // rpimagery.com

Ford & Kristin

I had never photographed a morning ceremony prior to their wedding, and thought it was very unique when they first told me they were having a Sunday morning wedding ceremony. This was also my first reception experience where they had a full brunch buffet complete with a mimosa bar; who does that?!!! It was the coolest thing ever, and I don't know why more people don't do that more often, it was such a splendid idea and fun day! They made their wedding celebration a weekend extravaganza at the beautiful Pronghorn Resort in Bend, OR by having close family with them Friday evening, a bit more friends and family with them Saturday night for the rehearsal and evening party, and then the full guest list to witness their I do's and celebrate more on Sunday morning/afternoon. It made for a very relaxed and beautiful celebration of their love.

It took me by surprise how relaxed everyone was as we ended up delaying the ceremony about 30 minutes to see if the rain would let up. The guests were just mingling and didn't mind at all, the boys were hanging out with some of the guests, and the ladies were sitting in the spa room just eating veggies, talking girl talk, and soaking up the last few moments before Kristin became a wife. It was actually a very beautiful time of the day, I loved it! It was still sprinkling a little bit as everyone started to approach the ceremony, however, the clouds suddenly parted as Kristin walked down the aisle and when her dad gave her away and Ford took her hand, the sky literally opened up for us to see little slivers of blue sky. Their were huge smiles on everybody's faces. Ford's mother was actually the officiant, and gave such a beautiful testimony of marriage and how God intends for a man and wife to love each other. She did a wonderful job and it was so special to witness the traditional moment of Kristin's dad giving her away, but then also Ford's mother in a sense giving him away as she announced them husband and wife.

I also felt the true meaning of my "heart bursting" at this wedding. I can't even put into words how loved Stephanie and I felt at their wedding, all of their friends and family were so incredibly kind, welcoming, and friendly towards us - we truly felt like part of the family. Thank you all for that, and special shout out to the mother of the bride, Lori, for loving Steph and I like your daughters and making sure we were completely taken care of - you have the loveliest heart!

Ford and Kristen, I say this often - I am completely humbled by the people that God puts into my life through my career - and you two are the perfect example of this. Individually, you each can light up a room with your spunky personalities and genuine smiles... and together, you guys make the best team. I cannot wait to see what the future holds for you guys, and thank you again for letting me be a part of your beautiful day, love you guys!

Other Vendors who helped to make their dream wedding a reality:

Venue/Decor/Catering/Dessert: Pronghorn Resort
http://www.pronghornresort.com

Florals: Autry's Flowers
http://www.bendoregonflowershop.com/

 

Eric & Amy

Eric and Amy's nautical wedding day was both laid back and very romantic. They got married at the Salt Hotel in Ilwaco, WA at the marina. We were able to explore around the beautiful Cape Disappointment for their "First Look" and portraits too. Their family and friends were so sweet and I can't express enough how the whole feel of the day was so relaxed... There's just something about a coastal wedding! Eric and Amy - thank you for letting Steph and I capture your day, we adore you guys and cherished getting to capture sweet moments throughout the whole day.

Surprise Wedding Film and The Couple's Cute Reaction!

Mike and Laura live in London, they planned one of the most beautiful Seattle, WA wedding celebrations I've ever experienced... from across the country. I was so impressed! As some of you may or may not know, I do both wedding photography and videography and for their wedding in particular I was hired for photography only. We had discussed the possibility of videography as well, but in the end Mike and Laura had decided it wasn't one of their bigger priorities, and had said it was a no-go. I, however, KNEW their wedding was about to be an EPIC event and that there is no way there wasn't going to be any video from this day to remember it by... This is just not okay!! Luckily, I also had the rare opportunity to have a few extra hands at their wedding, which I told Mike and Laura were just "interns I was teaching," and we totally pulled off secretly filming their wedding (while also photographing of course).

After delivering their wedding photos a few weeks after their wedding, I was overwhelmed with all of the kind words and gratitude Mike and Laura had about them! Little did they know, I was also working on their wedding FILM they didn't know they had coming too.... So I found it particularly rewarding when Laura added these words at the end of her email "I am sure I won't be the first bride to say this but I totally regret not getting your video package. I feel like I didn't see my own wedding, if that makes sense? I suppose I am looking for the guests experience and haven't yet realized I was the bride and don't get to do that."

So here we are 2 months after their wedding and I Face-timed this sweet couple a few days ago to tell them I had a little surprise for them. I couldn't help but record their reaction because honestly these two are some of the most genuine, sentimental, caring, and compassionate people I've met. I wanted to remember their reaction (for myself) as a sweet little reminder of why I do what I do.

However, their reaction was too good that I ended up asking them if I could share... despite having just got back from a run and not feeling in their prime... they luckily agreed to let me share hehe ;)
(Even though I think they are the most darling couple no matter what they look like!)
"I do wish I hadn't just gone for a run and wasn't sweaty and un-showered, but I seriously want every bride to know how much they MUST get a wedding video!"

More words from the bride:
"I seriously can't thank you enough for this gift. I can't describe what being able to see our wedding means to my memory of the day. It all goes by so fast and I am such a visual, detail oriented person that I feel like I didn't see our wedding or that what I imagined for so long during the planning process actually happened. This video filled in all those "holes". It literally completed my wedding experience and it is so, so beautiful. I will cherish it forever (and watch it over and over and over!) :) "

HUGE THANK YOU TO STEPHANIE LAMPKIN AND LACY ARTHUR FOR HELPING ME PULL THIS OFF!

VIEW THEIR FULL WEDDING FILM BELOW: