Last year was a very special year for so many reasons…but one of which is because of a woman who got me through the very hardest but very best day of my life. You’re probably wondering where in the world I am going with this post, but trust me, it will all make sense :) Last year, when my husband and I found out we were expecting a baby, and in the middle of my expectant mom worries and fears, some natural and some a little out of proportion, a gem stepped into my life. The funny thing is this. Her name means “a jewel”. And she has been just that for me. She takes time out of her schedule to calm my anxious mama heart, she stayed by my side and let me nearly break her hand from gripping it during labor contractions. She’s the most incredible doula you’ll ever meet, and she’s an exceptional wife and mom. And one thing I have experienced and seen over and over…is Amber’s loyalty. She is one of the dearest friends you will ever have, and I am so blessed to have her a part of my life and one of my sweetest memories will always be knowing she was there the moment my baby girl came into this world. She’s been the person who has looked me in the eye and said, “You can do this.”

So…when I got asked if I was available in January to shoot her best friend’s wedding, I made sure I cleared my entire schedule because there was no way I was missing this day! I first met Jordan last October, and well…let’s be honest, I knew she was Amber’s best friend, so I knew I was going to love her just as much! Ever since our very first meeting, I had been counting down the days until their wedding. I’m pretty sure I was just as excited as they were! I’ve been on a pretty solid wedding-maternity leave for the last few months, so this was my first wedding back after baby, and it was amazing!!! We packed up and headed out to the coast and had a weekend work vacation. The rain held out (for the most part), and we walked to the waterfront and ah…I’ll have to let the photos do the talking :)

Fort George Brewery in Astoria was the perfect location for these two to get married, since John grew up in Ilwaco, just a short drive from Astoria. It’s about 90 minutes west of Portland, and it feels like a world away with the seals talking and quaint waterfront bakeries. This town has so much old fashioned charm, mixed with a little Portland art, and tied together with a river-meets-the-ocean feel. It’s perfect. The air is crisp and clear and the old buildings that line the waterfront are full of so much character. The Fort George Brewery was no exception! Amber and Jordan had such a vision of how they wanted the space to come together, and when I arrived, I was speechless. It was magic. The most perfect warm, cozy winter feel with different patterns of buffalo plaid as table runners, oil burning lamps, and vintage pieces of furniture. The room was surrounded by barrels full of the brewery’s craft beer, and they completed the room with strands of edison bulbs. As soon as the sun went down, the room came alive with the twinkly lights and romantic candles and lamps. Ah. It was perfect.

John and Jordan, I am over the moon for you both. Thank you a million times for inviting me into your perfect day and to be there to document it all. Jordan, you were the most stunning bride! I’m so honored to have been there! <3 xo!!

Venue : Fort George Brewery

Location : Astoria, OR

Florals :

Dress : Davids Bridal

Cake : The Bleu Eyed Baker

DJ :

Catering :