JAMES + RENUKA

Arriving at the Hotel Ballard for James + Renuka’s wedding, was like walking into a dear friends home. We got to know each other so well during their engagement session, that finally getting to their actual wedding made my heart leap with overwhelming happiness. So many hugs.

James got ready at a friend’s house that was a few blocks from the hotel, which made for some super fun images of them heading to the venue. My amazing second shooter Bianca was with me to document their wedding, given the off-site pre-wedding events, and honestly it is a godsend to have a second shooter at your wedding. We can capture so many different angles and additional coverage of events, that it really adds so much more to your wedding gallery and help tell the the story of your day without any stress.

Renuka got ready in a beautiful room at the Hotel Ballard, which made getting ready for her wedding quite easy and relaxed. There was a little hiccup with her hair + makeup, but nothing that her Nonni couldn’t fix! Which was actually lovely getting some very special images of her helping Renuka get ready.

On the streets below, there was the annual Ballard Bike race happening, and James + Renuka wanted to incorporate the bike race into their day. So we took to the streets for their couples images as most of the roads were blocked off and we were able to get some pretty neat couples images as the bikes flew by!

It was an absolutely stunning summer day to have a rooftop wedding at this location. The rooftop venue has floor to ceiling glass window walls, which allows you to see all the beauty of the surrounding landscapes as well as the evening sunset. Makes for something very urban yet dreamy, and it was actually a perfect spot for James and Renuka — fit their love so well.

During their ceremony, they had set up a record player to play very specific songs for each set to walk down the aisle too, and also had a little cupboard which held books that their wedding party each took turns reading from. Afterwards, everyone stepped down to the lobby for drinks and apps, while the rooftop turned into the dining area, which was filled with long tables, beautiful florals, and delicious dinner. I loved how they did their seating chart, little images of them throughout the years! The party continued well into the evening, full of love, dancing and so much happiness. Being able to document these love stories are truly such a blessing!

Let’s celebrate your love story.