The day started early for the girls with hair and makeup artists, Eve and Josephine. Eve was a delight to work with, but I was feeling anxious all morning; being the center of attention is outside my comfort zone.
Photographer and friend of the family, Erin, arrived at 11am. I immediately felt comforted by her confident and reassuring nature. She and her friend Nadia captured the day brilliantly without being intrusive.
With everyone ready, we piled in cars destined for Skyline. The Skyline property consists of 30 acres of forested land in northwest Portland that has been in the Marshall family since 1951. Years of hard work went into developing and maintaining the property - clearing paths, cutting down trees, and building an 18-hole disc golf course. The Marshalls have done a wonderful job of preserving the land's wildness while creating a comfortable space for a day off-grid. Both of Tom's sisters were married there, so it was special for Tom and I to continue the tradition.
Once Tom arrived, Erin and Nadia organized our "first look." We were initially unsure about this modern trend - which bins the tradition of not seeing each other until the ceremony - but I am so glad that we did it! Having a private moment together beforehand was exactly what I needed to calm my nerves.
The florist did incredible work, particularly by incorporating a piece of lace from my mom's wedding dress into my bouquet.
Our ceremony included an intimate group of family and friends. Tom's dad officiated as Tom and I exchanged our vows and rings. It was the perfect summer day.
Afterwards, we celebrated with our loved ones.
Then we were off to the party! McMenamins is a Pacific Northwest tradition, with each unique location steeped in art and history. Cornelius Pass Roadhouse is a leafy oasis with a brewery, distillery, pub, and a wee bar known as the Little White Shed. The original farmhouse dates back to the mid-1850s when the pioneering Imbrie family settled the land. Our reception was held at the beautiful Octagonal Barn.
Tom and I enjoyed greeting friends and family during cocktail hour. We had about 70 guests, mostly from Tom's side (as we would be celebrating in Pittsburgh the following week).
Dinner was served buffet-style.
Both fathers and best man, Kyle, toasted to the bride and groom.
Our cake was a vanilla and raspberry vegan recipe, made special by my very talented mom.
For our first dance, Tom and I surprised everyone with a choreographed dance to "Unchained Melody." Shout out to our teacher Emilio in Melbourne!
The evening concluded with dancing and general merriment.
Tom and I had the best time at our wedding! That being said, I'm glad it's over and ready to continue our life together. A big thank-you to our families for making our day so memorable!
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| 14 July 2024 |
