Down by the river, the Avalon Hotel and Spa and Aquariva Restaurant provide the perfect setting and loads of ambiance for a wedding celebration. That is exactly what happened on thursday evening. Cara and Sam, got married, ate some cupcakes from Sweetpea Bakeryand had a great party.
While Patrice and the ladies took prep pictures in one of the nicer top floor suites the guys and I played around the property and then hit the bar for happy hour. Well, not me, . . . gotta stay sober to take the pictures don't-cha-know, but Sam and the guys looked like they were enjoying the atmosphere.
The beautiful bouquets and boutineers were provided by Angel Stegman of 'A Floral Affair' in Milwaukie.
We shot the first look in the suite taking advantage of the balcony and the great twilight river view. We explored the area taking romantic Bride and Groom shots, gathered the family for formal group portraiture, took some more Cara and Sam shots and then hid our bride away because the guests were starting to arrive.
The wonderful ceremony was officiated by Pastor Dan, Cara's hometown minister. The best man and groomsmen had a little surprise planned with the wedding ring which caused a few startled laughs from family and friends and a mildly concerned look from Cara.
The reception was catered by Aquariva and was delicious. The Dj / MC was Chris of Memories of Music. He put the crowd through their paces and worked out a great party. Cara and Sam even did a set as guest DJs.
We provided a photobooth and it was a popular addition to the party. Cara and Sam had an album that guests decorated with their photobooth pictures and comments.
We rocked the night away, and, . . . I hope Cara and Sam were not too surprised when they saw their car later, it was a wedding after all, and we got pictures!
