Tess and Eric, May 4, 2012, The Historic Balch Hotel

To see more i mages from Tess and Eric's Wedding CLICK HERE

The HIstoric Balch Hotel was completed and oped for business in 1908. Some of it's featured amenities were 'hot and cold water in every room'. 'electric lights and steam heat.' Quite a draw for turn of the century lodging!  The Balch Hotel in Dufur Valley Oregon, was the backdrop for a magnificent wedding this past weekend. 

Take a lovingly restored of building with all of the rooms appropriately dressed in vintage furnishings, add a gorgeous Bride in a an exquisite faux-vintage gown. Put all of that in close proximity to an anxious, dapper, charming Groom and what do you get? . . . wow, just about the most beautiful celebration of nuptials we've ever had the privilege to photograph.  Everywhere we turned there were photo ops  This was a great place to get married and party with family and friends!

We were only with Tess and Eric a short while but the prep pictures were some of the best, the images of Eric playing while waiting for Tess to show her smiling face were priceless.  In the romantic pictures, the sparks were flying.

Trying to describe this wedding in mere words brings to mind the adage, "a picture is worth a thousand words." So I'm going to stop at 273 words and let you judge the rest for yourselves.

To see more of Clarissa & Frank's wedding, CLICK HERE

Clarissa & Frank were married on April 27th, 2012 at the Ainsworth House and Gardens.

The celebration was an intimate gathering of family and friends officiated by Frank's father, Frank Sr. or "Father Frank".  He performed an exceptionally fine ceremony.  Clarissa and Frank wrote their own vows; people laughed, people cried, there were ooh's and aah's, all the appropriate responses at the appropriate times.  The Bride and Groom and family showed the love and shared the joy.

To see more images from Marita and Corey's Wedding, 

CLICK HERE

Marita and Corey got married on April 21st 2012 in St. Cloud Florida

The forecast said; "rain, thunderstorms, lightning, wind, alligators, avoid going outside unless you want to get REAL wet."

Well, our weather karma  came through.  The clouds and storms only provided a dramatic backdrop to a small wonderful wedding; no rain, no alligators.  It was a charming, beautiful event made even more special considering the fact that this was the celebration of Patrice and I's youngest daughter.  The ceremony location was on at the end of a long skinny penninsula where fortunately there was a charming gazebo large enough to fit the entire attending crowd.  A beautiful lake was the backdrop accented by the dramatic atmospheric artistry only a potential thunderstorm can provide.  As we were leaving the site we were chased down the path by the approaching weather front as you can see from the inverted umbrella in one of the images.

The beautiful bouquets, corsages and boutineers were provided by Bella Floral Boutique in downtown St. Cloud.  The Ice Cream Cakes were a nice treat! and the buffet was masterfully  prepared and presented by our own Chef d'excellance; Corey Purser (who also happened to be the Groom!).

The ceremony was officiated by, . . . who was that guy, . . .? oh yeah!, . . . me.  It was a first, and apparently went okay; Marita and Corey ended up married and smiling.

Yay! last daughter is married and happy, . . . what more can a proud dad ask

Mallory and Blake, 4.14.12, The Aerie

To see more images of Mallory and Blake's Wedding, CLICK HERE

Mallory and Blake were married at the Aerie at Eagle's Landing in Happy Valley on Saturday, April 14th.

What a great, enthusiastic crowd of family and friends. This truly was a celebration of Mallory and Blake's union. 18o great family and friends who came to party non-stop until the food was gone, the cupcakes were all eaten, sparklers went out and the limo pulled out of the drive.

The beautiful bouquets, boutineers and corsages were provided by Patti at Beaumont Florist.

The ceremony was officiated by Anthony Behrens a former Marion Country Judge and was very nice; mom's tearing up, loving looks going between Mal and Blake, a hand being kissed all the elements of a romantic, sweet, sincere encounter.

Cupcakes are becoming more and more popular at weddings. Mallory and Blake had a small elegant wedding cake, provided by Tammi at JaCiva's, for cuting and feeding each other then had a multi tiered presentation of cupcakes for the guests. They must have been yummy 'cause there was a constant stream of enthusiastic guests walking away from the cake table with two, three, sometimes four cupcakes at a time!

Dancing, gymnastics, money flying through the air, hershey's kisses, rock-in-roll, the electric slide, indoor and outdoor alcohol, sparklers and a limo, snuggling and romance, Mallory and Blake had it all.

Christine & Svender, April 7, 2012, now Engaged!

To see more images of Christine and Svender's Engagement Party, CLICK HERE

Christine and Svendor had their engagement party at the Sheraton PDX on Saturday, April 7, 2012.

We started the process on Friday at the Premenanda Temple in Tigard where Chrisitne, Svender and their parents participated in a traditional blessing ceremony by the Temple Priest. Later that evening we went to the Ram's family home in Happy Valley for the 'Henna Party' which was attended by a large gathering of family and friends.

The following evening, the formal 'engagement party was held at the Sheraton PDX. IT was beautifully staged and decorated. Svender did an exceptional job of proposing to his intended as evidenced by the laughter, the tears and the many comments of the family and friends present. How could it have been anything else; a Groom singing to his Bride, presenting the ring on bended knee, well done Svender!

Food - absolutely delicious, desserts - to die for, everything was perfect! It was the perfect start of the process that will be highlighted by the marriage of Christine and Svender this summer in India.

And tis PLUS-ONE for the Clan Corbett!!

To see more images from Katie and Carl's Wedding, CLICK HERE

In a lovely traditional ceremony performed by the Manhattan Monk. The tartan was offered and the tartan was accepted, officially adding Katie as the newest member of Clan Corbett.

It has been a few years since I've seen a man in a Kilt. Carl wore it well, with dignity and pomp as he fended off admirers wanting to pet his fine fur Sporran.

Katie was quite a sight in her royal red (tending just a bit towards burgundy) Bridal Gown which was custom made by her sister. They made a very fine couple indeed. And they were a joy and a half to shoot being all lovey dovey and such.

The rain took a break just long enough to get Katie and Carl into the park for a few shots after getting ready (which for Carl included knocking back a pint!) at the downtown Vancouver Hilton. Then it was off to Hamilton Hall on the Fort Vancouver Historical Reserve.

The ceremony as previously mentioned, was a fine traditional Scots affair with a hand fasting, promises made which were sealed with a kiss.

The cake which was very fine indeed was provided by Papa Haydn's (cannot go wrong there!) A young relative of Carl's handled the music and announcements and did a fine job.

Dancing broke out around the music and there was a great deal of partying amongst all of the family and friends.

Kathleen & Nathan, Ainsworth House, 3.17.12

To see more of Kathleen and Nathan's images, CLICK HERE

Kate and Nate got married Saturday afternoon at the happiest place on earth, nope, . . . not Disneyland, . . . at the Ainsworth House and Gardens! Though, I suppose that any place could be the happiest place on earth if that's where you were married (at least for THAT day). It also helps the emotional ambience if there are special additions like; the ceremony being performed by a special family friend, a cake provided by Wrightberries (one of our personal favs) and a DJ like Kris from Prime Time Music managing the festivities, It was a good day.

We were expecting rain. All of the local news stations confirmed it; rain, rain, rain. We arrived with our good weather karma in tow and viola! (couldn't do anything about the puddles but the rain held off). As a bonus, the daffodils were in bloom. We got to create some beautiful images for Kathleen and Nathan and really enjoyed our time with them.

Mary & Brandon, Ainsworth House, 3.3.12

To see more images of Mary & Brandon's Wedding CLICK HERE

Mary and Brandon got married on Saturday at the Ainsworth House and Gardens. Do we have good weather karma or what, . . . three weather services said; rain, rain, rain, but nope, our weather luck held out once again and we even had a little bit of sun. Truth-be-told however the grounds were a little bit mushy and I have yet to be able to talk the groomsmen and bridesmaids into creating mud angels as I photograph them, alas, . . . someday maybe I'll shoot a trash the bridal party session!

The flowers were beautiful, provided by Alicia Flora Design and for only the second time in well over 600 weddings I drew blood while attaching a boutineer. Fortunately, sort of, it was my own and I was able to carry on despite my injury.

While Patrice photographed the girls getting ready for the day in the beautiful bridal room I took some time to play with the guys. I knew early on that this was not going to be a boring day, . . .

Due to the forecast weather, the mushiness of the grounds and the trouble that the staff went to to set up all of the chairs in the conservatory THAT's where we had the ceremony. In front of 100 or so family and friends Mary and Brandon listened to a wonderful, ceremony officiated by, . . . hmmm, another piece of information that did not seem to end up in my notes, but it was heartfelt and seemed to move the crowd, I saw a few tears, the rings were exchanged, there was a kiss or three and then off to the party, SCREEEECH!! time out, . . .off to the parlour of the manor house where we signed the certificate and gathered all of the guests for one massive group shot, . . .whew.

Then we went to the party. The festivities were shepherded by a fun and very capable dj named Frank from Bust-A-Move dj service, The buffet was pasta themed with yummy meatballs and a salad, according to Mary, "that's the biggest chef salad I've ever seen!" There were cupcakes at the party and a cake made by Coldstone. Frank was full of surprises such as a Bride and Groom Shoe Game, a full-contact version of Musical Chairs and even a stage performance himself, great moves Frank! Then it was time to throw the bouquet and garter and party on.

After we put our gear away we came back in the reception to party and have a beer with the crowd. This was definitely a fun group!

Becki and Justin, Old Scotch Church /Pumpkin Ridge Country Club, 2.18.12

To see more images of Becki and Justin's wedding CLICK HERE

It was a cold rainy, blustery day in the rural countryside west of Portland. It was the kind of day that, despite the weather, you just knew something wonderful was about to happen. We pulled off to the side of the road at a little country church surrounded by parishioners gravestones dating from the late 1800's and puled out our cameras to take some pictures. People started to show up, then flowers, then some strange balloons and lapel stickers that had the name 'Ron Paul' printed on them. Was this the site of some obscure political rally? Then, . . . a bride, a groom, OF COURSE! we are here to shoot Becki and Justin's wedding / Ron Paul fundraiser! . . . just kidding (about the fundraiser).

This location was even more special to Becki and Justin due to the fact that one of the founding Pastors was an ancestor of Becki's.

The rain semi-cooperated with us though the grounds were kinda mushy so we didn't get a lot of outside pictures. Fortunately the church is very quaint and picturesque and even more fortunately Becki and Justin were just so cute and cuddly together. The ceremony played to a packed house with a wonderful service performed by Pastor Sayer Strauch.

After the knot was officially tied, the reception was held at The Pumpkin Ridge Country Club. The club catered the delicious buffet. Patrice said "no" when I asked her If the cake was on my diet though it looked scrumptious. The music, the party, the Ron Paul balloons were all enthusiastically received and attended by a wonderful group that included family, friends and co-workers.

Cara & Sam, Avalon / Aquariva, 2.9.12

To see more images of Cara and Sam click HERE

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!

Ally and Dale, The Academy, December 12, 2011

To see  more of Ally and  Dale's images CLICK HERE

It was a COLD day in Vancouver

But a hot time in the Hidden Courtyard at the Academy where Ally and Dale were married and had their reception on Saturday night!

Seven Bridesmaids and seven Groomsmen, kept us on our toes, let me tell you, though they were delightful to work with and we had a wonderful shoot.

It was a crowd and a sqeeze getting into the bridal prep rooms on Saturday evening. I almost felt guilty that Patrice was there and I was in with the guys who had the entire ballroom at their disposal. But hey, the pictures tell a beautiful story. The guys, well, we played at the bar and took lots of pictures while Ally was prepping. Ally's beautiful bouquet, the boutineers and single roses that the bridesmaids carried were provided by Clark County Floral

As we shot the first look in front of the big landing windows the glances going back and forth from Ally to Dale were quite wonderful. We took the chance to get poses in and around the building, we shot the family formals in beautiful Windsor Sanctuary and then it was time for the ceremony to begin.

The reception was in the Hidden Courtyard and catered with a Hawaiian theme. Toasts were given by the best man, who was Dale's brother, and the maid-of-honor.

The cake cutting, feeding and wearing was a suprise. Usually, its the groom we have to watch out for. We learned that Ally has a bit of a mischievous streak going on, . . . Dale, you wore it well! The guests enjoyed the cupcakes from Beaverton Bakery after the clean-up.

The party was hosted by Tom Farley of Tunes to Go. There were lots of lights, our cameras, and action, great music and lots of dancing. Great party, great shoot, great couple, great times.

THANKS GUYS!

Samantha and Mitch, Lakeside Gardens, 11.05.11

For more images of Samantha & Mitch CLICK HERE

Samantha got her wish. On a beautiful, misty, ethereal, mystical day in November she was married to the man of her dreams. Mitch, . . . he got lucky, Samantha was a beautiful bride. Though, he cut quite a dashing figure himself strutting around with that, "I've got the most beautiful girl at the party" look on his face.

They were  married Sunday, November 5, at Lakeside Gardens.  The ceremony was inside the cathedral ceilinged conservatory with a wall of windows at their backs looking out onto the beautiful, manicured, parklike grounds of Lakeside.  

Samantha and Mitch met for their first look in the wedding gazebo. They were very loving and expressive with each other. We took advantage of every dry spot we could find to create some beautiful images.

The ceremony was officiated by our friend, and a wonderful Reverend, Kevin Yell.  He has a way with words.  Maybe it's the english accent or maybe the way he makes everyone feel personally involved and invested in  the couples future.  Whatever it is, each time I hear him perform a ceremony I want to get married all over again and have him do the honors.

The flowers were created and provided by Flowers For You.  Kay Dietl of FFYis a master florist and  makes beautiful bouquets, cake accents and table arrangements.

The cake was from JaCiva's.  A yummy and masterful creation from one of our personal favs.

The party was MC'd by Mitch's best man Nate who did a fine job keeping the tunes rocking.  Patrice and I even joined in for a dance.

Alisha and Ian, Stone Ridge, 10.15.11

For more images of Alisha and Ian's wedding, CLICK HERE


Any marriage is a gamble, some more than others, I'll put my money on this one. Good weather karma prevailed; the forecast changed. 'Cloudy with a chance of rain' became 'partly sunny, lots of love, with chance of a Happily-ever-after.' When all was said and done Alisha and Ian were married and danced the night away amongst family and friends.

The Stone Ridge Events Center in Pasco Washington is a great venue for weddings. There is a large beautiful Bridal Prep area, indoor and outdoor facilities for the party, a huge lit Gazebo, a Water Feature and a Mini-Vineyard. The photo ops abound!

Alisha and her bridesmaids prepped in the in the bride's lounge, nice furnishings, large mirrors, lots of room, as it should be for a bride. The guys, well, we went out and played in the yard while the ladies finished dressing. There are so many fun and adventurous places to shoot at Stone Ridge that it seamed we had just started and suddenly it was time for Alisha and Ian's first look.

They met for the first time, that day, strolling amongst the grapes, the warm sunshine on their faces, love and passion in their hearts and on their minds, holding hands and looking into each others eyes. You could tell that they wanted to express all those warm fuzzy feelings. And it was a good idea not to stand between them cause the sparks were flying.

The family gathered in the ceremony area for the family portraits after which it was time to hide the bride and get ready for the main event.

The ceremony was officiated by Berni and Brian Kirkpatrick, the Groom's parents. Alisha and Ian exchanged rings, signified their union by a sand ceremony, kissed and then the fun began.

The party was inside the event center and was packed with family and friends who ate the buffet and drank champagne as toasts were made by many of the bridal party and the parents. The the artsy, asymmetric, colorful cake was cut and eaten with enthusiasm. First dances were performed and the party took over.

And, . . . it was good.

Holly & Ian, 10.02.11, The Fairgate Inn

For more images of Holly &  Ian CLICK HERE

Ladies, imagine flying over the wine country in the central Willamette Valley in a hot air balloon. A 360 degree view of unfettered beauty and magnificence accented by the feel of the wind in your face and the almost unnatural lack of background noise that is such a part of our lives that we forget about it until its not there. Feel the rush of knowing that you are at nature's whim, floating on the air currents. Laugh as the Osprey flying directly towards you suddenly veers away with an angry "squaak" at the last minute to avoid a collision. Then finally look down and see the man you love on one knee holding a ring.

Okay, not sure if that's EXACTLY the way it happened but in my imagination it did. Ian actually did propose during a hot air balloon ride. Now isn't that a piece of work? The theme carried through too. We had an engagement shoot at theTigard Balloon Festival where once again Holly and Ian climbed aboard and floated away, but only 50 feet or so cause thats how long the rope was. Then at the wedding, again, what did we see? hot air balloon lights, decorations, cake topper and cuff links.

The engagement hot air balloon ride was provided by Vista Balloon Adventures.

As theme weddings go this was one of my favorites. No outrageous costumes or props (though Holly's dress was absolutely, jaw-dropping stunningly gorgeous) just tasteful and classy.

Well done guys!

We started out the wedding day with a touch of rain at the lovely Fairgate Inn in Camas Washington. The Bridal Prep area downstairs is one of the best at any wedding venue in the area. We made some great images. The guys meanwhile dressed in the library and then went out to play in the rain.

The bouquets, boutineers, table centerpieces and accents were masterfully created by Stacey Young who also happens to be the wedding coordinator at The Fairgate.

Holly and Ian saw each other for the first time that day under the arbor then strolled the grounds so we could create more images of them snuggling in the .rain

The ceremony, officiated by our friend and favorite minister, the Rev. Kevin Yell, was under the big tent on the back patio. What can I say about Kev, makes you laugh, makes you cry, makes you really care. The Fairgate has done a wonderful job softening the look of a 'big tent' by adding a soft fabric back lit with twinkle lights, very nice.

The reception was in the conservatory, decorated wonderfully with whimsical hot air balloon decorations, lighting and 'balloon bucks.' The cake, provided by Simply SweetsfromVancouver. It was topped by, you guessed it, a hot air balloon with figures of Holly and Ian in the basket! and surrounded by really delicious cupcakes with flavors like, 'peanut butter cup', 'bananas foster', 'double fudgy chocolate diet annihilator' (I made that one up, . . .).

I cannot think of a better way to enjoy the day and forget about the famous fall Oregon weather than to celebrate with these two wonderful people.

Hope you are having a great time in Maui, . . . 82 degrees and sunny, . . . forever

Marci and Chris, Club Paesano, That's Amore!

For more images of Marci and Chris' wedding, CLICK HERE

Marci and Chris were married last Saturday at Club Paesano / Cedarville Park in Gresham.    Club Paesano is an old fraternal social club off of Powell Blvd.  It is surrounded by acres of park, beautiful trees and a meandering creek.  The meeting hall itself is a beautiful faux log cabin style structure with facilities for quite a large group if necessary.

Marci's preps and portraits included shots on a Harley provided by a family friend, while Chris and the groomsmen tried to stay out of sight in the woods.  Marci and Chris did not see each other prior to the  ceremony, they were both getting pretty anxious by the time the ceremony was to begin.  Marci's father walked her down the aisle, which was an event made more special by the fact that Marci's dad has not walked for two years.  What a special moment that was.  Chris' brother performed a short but wonderfully personal ceremony. 

After the ceremony the family met in the park for family group pictures, while the guests visited, enjoyed the bar and made good use of the family-made custom photo booth.  The large fun collection of props were a big hit and kept everyone entertain while we took some lovely bride and groom portraits in the park. 

The cake was accompanied by lots and lots of yummy  treats.  My personal favs were the cheesecake lollipops and the mini pecan pies, yum.    Catering by Laurie, who provided the buffet as well as the cake and desserts, never fails to wow the eyes as well as the mouth. 

The beautiful bouquets and boutineers and other floral touches were provided by Flora and Form.

The party was great.  How could it be other wise considering there were lots of dress-up ops and even a limbo snake, . . . it was  quite an adventure!

Thanks guys for a great evening!

Lauren and Evan, The Avalon / Aquariva, 9.10.11

For more images of Lauren & Evans wedding, CLICK HERE

Along side Portland's Willamette River in a commercial office park and surprisingly close to downtown, is the Avalon Hotel,  a hidden gem perfect for an intimate wedding. This is where Lauren and Evan chose to celebrate this past Sunday  The Avalon Hotel  off of Macadam is right on the Willamette River at Cottonwood Bay.

Aquariva  is the dining and banquet facility associated with the hotel and provided the setting and a beautiful river backdrop for the ceremony.

Lauren and her sister Ericka prepped upstairs in the hotel while Evan, his brother Mike and I walked around the property.  There are wonderful views as well as a pathway along the river, a park bench to sit and take a load off and a bubbling fountain all adding a wildernessy feel to an otherwise industrialized niche of riverfront.

Lauren and Evan met for the first time (that day, . . . ) on the second floor deck of Aquariva with an expansive background of the river.  They were so sweet together; tears, smiles, hugs and kisses, so-to-be newlywed stuff.

After more romantic shots, and family formals we moved inside to prepare for the ceremony. One entire wall in Aquariva made up of windows to enjoy the beautiful view. The flowers were provided by and artistically arranged to perfection by Jenny Prucher of Green in Bloom.   The ceremony was officiated by Lauren's father. 

The dj, master of the microphone and general all around go-to guy at the party was Rich of Sound Xpress.

The incredible delicious cake was created by DiPrima Dolci, and after visiting there website to grab this link I think that my diet is once again going away.

Thanks for the party guys, and the cake.

Amber and Tyler, Ainsworth House, 9.4.11

For more images of Amber and Tyson CLICK HERE

Ainsworth House and Gardens owned, lovingly maintained and operated by our friends Kevin Yell and Bud Bowen, is one of our favorite venues for a wedding celebration.  The house is a turn of the century colonial with with a wonderful and natural feel to the landscaping.   Foliage and fountains are placed along meandering paths through the trees.  It is a perfect place for a momet of quiet reflection and at the same time lends its beauty to the creation of romantic images capturing the memories of the day.

Amber and the ladies prepped in the bridal room while Tyson and the guys strolled the grounds.  The first look was under the arbor in the wee woods accented with anxious looks and almost tears.  When they saw each other you could feel the sparks fly, this is such a great way to start the day.

The ceremony was under the wedding tree which in and of itself is a wonder to experience.  It is a magnificent tree and spreads it's branches out over a deck built for weddings.  The ceremony was presided over by Pastor Larry who is Ambers hometown Pastor.  It was a special service as PL has known Amber since she was baptized.  There were readings by bridesmaids and and a unity candle ceremony.

After the marriage license was signed on the front porch and the entire throng of guests gathered for a group picture the party started moving towards the Conservatory.  What a party it was!  A laser light show, a fog machine, a limbo bar all coordinated my master MC and dj extraordinaire Kris from Prime Time.

The delicious buffet was created by Catering by Laurie.  The cake was designed by Sweetcakes by Melissa,

Thanks guys for letting us shoot your party and congratulations!

Melissa and Deric in the Apple Orchard at CPR

For more great images of Melissa and Deric, CLICK HERE

Melissa and Deric were married on September 3rd at McMenamin's Cornelius Pass Roadhouse.

What a great day!

The ladies prepped upstairs in the Roadhouse while the guys prepped in the  traditional  'guy' way, with shot glasses, in Imbrie Hall.   After the first look we wandered the grounds taking advantage of many of the  beautiful locations for creating great images.  Melissa looked absolutely dazzling and Deric looked very gansta in his tux, black shirt and white tie.

The ceremony was in  the wedding grove and was officiated by Melissa and Deric's friends Kathy, and Sue Newton.  A unity ceremony involving 'cherry booms' wrapped up  the formal part of the event.  The reception was in a beautiful canopied enclosure placed at the center of the apple orchard.  As the evening progressed and the ambient light dimmed, the light from the tent and the lights strung in the trees made everything glow most romantically!

The bouquets, centerpieces and boutineers were created by DK Floral ( http://www.dkfloral.com/ ).  The party was kept rockin and the action was non-stop thanks to Nic at Sound Choice Entertainment ( http://www.asoundchoiceentertainment.com/ )  The cake (and what a cake it was) came from Lamb's Thriftway ( http://www.lambsmarkets.net/ ).

Thanks guys, shooting your wedding was the very best way I can think of to celebrate my  birthday!

Crystal and Ken married at Abigail's Garden, 8.22.111

For great images of Crystal and Ken's wedding CLICK HERE


Monday is a Great Day for a wedding!

 Crystal and Ken's Celebration was in a beautiful gazebo set in the lovely parklike Abigail's Garden at the Abernethy Center. Who could ask for a more beautiful setting.
The flowers from Nancy's Floral in Gresham were absolutely amazing.

We started out shooting preps in the beautifully remodeled bride's and groom's suites. Then moved to the gazebo and other locations on the grounds for some fun and romantic portraiture with Crystal and Ken,

The Ceremony was performed by our friend and one of the best officiants available, Roger Moore. We love working with Roger, he has a unique style and creates a very family friendly perspective for those attending the service.

Crystal and Ken made their entry and went into their first dance. They glided across the floor so into-each-other that you would not have known that they were surrounded by forty seven of their closest family and friends.

Catering and the cake were provided by expert Chefs at Abernethy. We have provided a little hint of the surprise that Ken presented when feeding the cake to his lovely bride though I'm not sure if she appreciated his spontaneity, at the time, maybe later? - more images will be available on the full preview website.

The DJ/MC for the event was Eric with Rose City DJs. thanks Eric for running a great reception.

Many, many thanks to Crystal and Ken. They were wonderful people to work with from the first day we met through the engagement session and then to the beautiful wedding.

It was fun!

L' Chaim, Adam and Erin, August 14th at a Volcano!

To see more of Adam and Erin's images CLICK HERE

No, this was not some strange polynesian festival culminating in a newly wedding couple being thrown into the fiery depths to appease the God (or Goddess?) of matrimony.  There were some surprises, pleasant I might add, and I believe that this couple has what it takes to live long, prosper and be happy. Though not necessarily by avoiding the heat, . . .

Adam and Erin tied the knot under a Huppa at the Mt Tabor Amphitheatrer (which has the distinction of being the only extinct volcano within the bourders of a city in the entire continental United States!).

From beginning to end this was a joyful family affair that started months ago (for me) when the entire family showed up for the engagement shoot!  Adam and Erin have two wonderfully delightful mini-people named Tabetha and Liam. 

At most weddings where children are 'part of the process', they might be incidentally included or appear when it is convenient to show them off, . . . not Tabs and Liam they were a part of the day  from the very beginning;  from the  preps to two of the greatest readings I have ever been priviledged to witness, to the cake ceremony and the toast.  It was a wonderful family  affair, everything that you would hope for and more than you would expect.

We started off at the Airport Hampton Inn for the preps and then traveled to the Mt Tabor Park for the first look, romantics, family formals, the ceremony and the  reception.

Adam and Erin signed the Katuba, the traditional Jewish marriage contract prior to the  ceremony and had a small ceremony  of their own with Tabetha and Liam.  Everyone received a family necklace, a mobius strip, engraved with xoxo's.  The ceremony was a more or less traditional Jewish ceremony with  a celtic 'tying the  knot' added honoring Erins celtic heritage.  The ceremony was officiated by Joanie of Your Personal Ceremony.  Tabetha and Liam each read a selection which  was a definite highlight to the  event,

After the ceremony everyone went to get a sack lunch and sat a tables or on the lawn and had a picnic meal under the beautiful  blue sky.

Tabetha acted at the  MC making announcements for the toast, cake cutting and first dances, and did a spectacular job.

The  cake was provided by the Helen Bernhardt Bakery.

Another first for me, Adam and Erin decided that a Bounce House would be just the thing to put some spring in the  steps of the kids (and brave adults).  Let me tell you it is not easy to take pictures in one of those things, point, shoot, bounce, fall over backwards, and hope, . . . 

Thanks guys for the wonderful and unique adventure that was your  wedding.