RILEY + LAUREN

UPON MY ARRIVAL AT LAIRMONT MANOR…

I immediately got goosebumps. Passing thru the gates and heading up the drive feels like you stepped into a fairytale. I have always wanted to shoot at Lairmont Manor and not kidding, it is such a magical venue. Riley + Lauren’s wedding was at the start of spring here in the PNW, yet the grounds were still pretty vibrant and full. I chatted with the venue coordinator, who gave me a “lay of the land” and some history about the property, while allowing me to print the family shot list that I received on my drive up that morning.

Then I made may way thru the venue and found Lauren downstairs putting final touches on her make-up, as well as getting a few things buttoned up on her dress with the help of family. Riley + Lauren opt’d to cut the getting ready aspect from their wedding coverage because they wanted to have more images of the reception and time spent with guests. I chatted with her on how the morning has been going and snapped a few images of her finishing up — the woodwork downstairs was incredible. Making my way back up I found Riley, who was tucked in this beautifully lit room and just finalizing his fit as well. I snapped a few moments of his brother helping to put on his tie and a few other details, before we headed out to do the First Look.

It had been raining all morning, but actually stopped right as I arrived so everything was damp, vibrant, and full of lush color. Due to this, Riley + Lauren wanted to stay closer to the Manor for photos. I found the perfect little nook that had tiny pastel purple flowers — I noticed that Lauren had dyed the tips of her hair purple for today and I thought it would be a perfect complimentary pop in the background. After the First Look, Riley snuck off to grab his guitar and surprised Lauren with a song. It was absolutely darling how Lauren’s eyes lit up while watching Riley sing to her.

And the rest of the day went off without a hitch. The ceremony was perfect and so intimate, as the spring sun made an appearance. It included a blessing ceremony and both parents each told sweet stories of the couple as well as offering happy blessings for their future. The Reception kicked off right after with their announcement as a married couple and First Dance, followed by the most tearful of toasts. Lauren’s brother who is very shy and tends to not show emotion, could not hide the tears when his dad spoke. The catering by Della Terra was insanely good and the cake and little desserts by Pure Bliss were to die for yummy — there was not anything left over!

Given how early sunset is in the spring, we snuck away for a mini break and snapped some pictures of them celebrating being married by the courtyard fountain. Then they wanted to put together an arrangement for their parents to take home later, with some spring flowers they had picked up in Pike Place Market the previous day. It was such a unique way to give something special.

Things moved inside to the dance floor and Lauren changed into a flowing gown with tiny pastel flowers to help rock the night away without a care in the world. Everyone was dancing, and it was such a joy to see how everybody celebrated together – perfect way to end the night, capturing all the movement with tons of laughter.

//VENDORS

venue : @lairmontmanor planning/floral : @hoffwellliving photography : @theloverswild catering : @_dellaterra rentals : @grandeventrentals ceremony/reception music : @johnrossmusic hmua : @zoandcostyling desserts : @pureblissdesserts