We who live in Washington know that as soon as fall hits, we are in for several dark, rainy, and gray months ahead. Austin & Olivia’s wedding was the perfect way to end my wedding season before diving into family portrait time – because there was so much COLOR everywhere! If you’ve followed my work for a long time, you know that it’s my style to showcase bright, vibrant color that leaps off your screen – and the Davis wedding was, for me, a match made in heaven!
It was my first time working with CiderPress Lane, and the color palette and decor that Kelly put together was absolutely breathtaking. Every piece from the arch to the wreath bouquets to the centerpieces radiated deep autumn colors that were so much fun to photograph!
We began the morning at a darling Airbnb steps away from historic downtown Poulsbo, my hometown. Olivia spent a relaxed morning getting ready with her bridesmaids, her mom, and her sweet little boy.
We then headed out to Port Gamble for Austin and Olivia’s first look, and thankfully the unpredictable October weather was holding out for us! We still had plenty of leaves on the trees to create a colorful and pretty backdrop. Austin was there waiting for us, all dressed up including his “Nightmare Before Christmas” wedding socks!
Before seeing each other, the soon-to-be bride and groom shared private letters with one another.
On the count of three, turn around and see your bride!
I think we could have spent all day in this one spot – it was so perfect! Instead, it was time to meet up the bridal party in front of the Port Gamble Theatre!
I promise, if you hang out with me for long on a wedding day, there WILL be dancing! 😉
Before family pictures, Olivia took a few important minutes for a snuggle break!
Family portraits are such an important tradition at weddings, and I think it’s easy to not think twice about them. But really, when will you have everyone on both sides all together to celebrate? I encourage my couples to really think through portraits they would like to have – maybe with all of your cousins, or a generational picture that’s been taken in your family for decades. Lots of possibilities here!
We took extra time to take some portraits in Port Gamble’s hidden dahlia beds – they never disappoint!
It was now time to set off on the road…to get MARRIED! Austin and Olivia’s ceremony and reception was held at newlife Training & Events Center in Silverdale, Washington, where Austin’s dad has served as the lead pastor for many years. I’ve had the privilege of attending several weddings where a father or another close family member officiates, and it adds something really special as the couple commits their lives to each other. I know I’m going to be a sobby mess when my girls get married, so props to any parent who can hold it together, especially in front of a congregation!
Before the ceremony, I took some portraits of Austin upstairs, overlooking Silverdale. He had a very special necklace that paid homage to his grandfather and best friend, that he wore around his neck to keep them close on the most important day of his life.
The guests began to arrive, and the music began to play. The time was here!
I interrupt your scroll to bring you – the BEST flowergirl ever!! Sweet baby Kinsley wore a very fancy tutu and headband while being escorted down the stairs by her daddy, Ryan. His job: help Kinsley throw petals. He understood the assignment.
At last, the bride.
Right afterward, everyone spent a few quiet moments to sign the license and get some more snuggles!
The reception took place in the sanctuary and was filled with lots of family and friends! Everyone was ready to dig into the fresh pizza from Parlor Shop in Poulsbo – it seemed like it was being delivered by the truckload!
Two of my couples together! YAY! 🙂 What’s up, Hallie and Noah?!
It was pretty overcast, and not much hope for real sunset pictures. Plus, we were in the middle of Silverdale – not too many aesthetic options close to the venue. But earlier in the week while scouting, I found my spot!! I convinced Austin and Olivia to give me just five minutes in the parking lot down the street, right next to a blood donation site. How romantic! However, what I saw was lots and lots of COLOR – and this was the result!
BEAUTIFUL! You would never know it’s just a boring old street corner across from Target! ha!
Now, it was definitely time to PARTY!
Bella Bella Cupcakes created this spectacular cake that fit right in with the autumn motif, along with all of the other sweets to be found around the dance floor!
The dancing kept on and on!
Austin and Olivia planned for a sparkler exit, so we were very happy for the good weather! As they drove off together, they left behind a ton of friends and family cheering them on, wishing them well as they began their new life as husband and wife!
To the bride and groom, and to their families, thank you so much for inviting me along to be a part of your celebration! What an honor, and a wonderful way to close out my 2021 wedding season!
Coordinator: CiderPress Lane
Venue: newlife Training & Events Center
Florals: CiderPress Lane
Catering: Parlor Shop
Cake and Desserts: Bella Bella Cupcakes
Hair and Makeup: The Bride
Dress: Something Blue Boutique
Suit: Men’s Wearhouse
