Wedding Spotlight: Portland

I'm a big fan of the Green Wedding Shoes blog, and I really like the wedding spotlight they do each month. I just got back home to California (!!!) yesterday, and as a last homage to the last four years in Oregon I thought I'd share this month's GWS wedding spotlight: Portland.

The Sarah Seven store showcases the designer's entire collection, but If you're looking for a little more variety, you may be interested in The English Department. The English Department carries a select few designers, including the owner Elizabeth Dye's collection, and Twigs & Honey, where you can find elegant hairpieces. For the groom, check out Duchess Clothier.

GWS recommends the creative team at Punch Floral Design for amazing arrangements.

Portland has some amazing photographers to choose from, including Blue Window Creative, Brandon Witzel and Kelty of Steep Street. Steep Street also provides invitation design.

Hotel Deluxe is a glam downtown hotel close to the Pearl District and Nob Hill. This gorgeous venue is a contemporary tribute to the Golden Era of Hollywood, with a rooftop location and amazing city views. If you are looking for a more rustic and outdoorsy venue, Camp Lane Park, located just outside of Portland, is a unique and pretty option.

Portland has an endless supply of catering possibilities, as it is home to some of the culinary greats. GWS recommends Vibrant Table, or mixing it up with of of the Portland Food Carts, like Koi Fusion, to cater your wedding.

I hope this is a good start for anyone planning a wedding in Portland. If you have any other great PDX venues or vendors, send them my way! Happy planning!

Real Wedding: Sade & Brent

I've got a cute one for you today!

Sade and Brent are both in the military and have been deployed multiple times throughout their relationship. To celebrate their service to their country and each other, Sade wrapped Brent's dog tags around her bouquet and Brent wore her's under his shirt. The couple also incorporated their favorite colors, yellow and blue, throughout the ceremony. Yellow is particularly special because it represents those who are serving our country abroad, and it represents the hope that they come back safe. This might be one of the cutest wedding stories I've ever heard, so I hope you enjoy this relaxed, romantic day!

Sade's Monique Lhuillier lace gown is stunning!

I love the yellow door!

The couple wanted to honor their diverse cultures, Sade is Nigerian/ West Indian and Brent is Mexican, so they incorporated Mexican and West Indian appetizers like empanadas and jerk chicken into the cocktail hour.

Photos by Punam Bean.

Alternative Bouquets

While most brides opt for the traditional floral bouquet, there has been a rising trend of using alternative materials to make gorgeous arrangements. This option is also great for anyone who has allergies or needs to save costs!

This bouquet made of vintage broaches is both colorful and sweet.

The elaborate beading and jewel tones create an elegant bouquet.

The bride created this giant paper flower as an alternative to the real thing.

These felt blossoms are fun and easy to make.

Parasols are another alternative for a non-floral option.

This bride used vintage butterfly clips to create this whimsy arrangement.

Don't forget about the guys! Here are some crepe and origami paper blossoms for the boutonnieres.

Real Wedding: Jenn & Matt

I am head over heels for this DIY Bohemian wedding that is sweet, colorful and perfectly beautiful! This wedding is so unique and so special with all of the personal touches and great details. I love that the couple used rainbow colors throughout the day, from the bridal party to the decor as a symbol of promise.

The wedding was held at a family friend's camp house .

I love the lighting in both of these images. The pictures are absolutely stunning.

Even her jewelry is rainbow!

The couple watered a tree together during the ceremony that they plan to plant behind their house and watch grow every day.

The groom's ring has "everlasting light" engraved into it which is the song the bride walked down the aisle to.

The couple's love of nature is intertwined throughout the decorations and details

All of the decorations were crafted by the bride, family and friends.

Gorgeous photos by Three Nails Photography.

What I Love Wednesday!

I love...Prom!

Prom season is great because you get to dress up, dance, hang out with friends, and ride in limos. Could you ask for a better night? I also love prom because people come up with the cutest and most creative ways to ask a date! My alma mater, Bishop O'Dowd, recently held the Senior Ball at the Hyatt Fisherman's Wharf in SF and I'm loving the pictures! Both of my best friend's sisters attended and they looked beautiful.

I really like the different styles, and I think each dress represents their personalities well!

More pretty dresses!

I think a lot of these dresses would make really cute bridesmaids outfits too!

This one is actually from Junior Prom, but I love the blue dress!

What I Love Wednesday!

I love...bling bling!

I mean, who doesn't? Engagement rings are my favorite though, and I love how you can match any style to your personality. Yes please, I'll take one of each!

Rings for days!

I love cushion cut! This is an elegant addition to a simple cushion cut.

Then again, if you don't find a style that fits you, make one! My teacher from high school designed her own ring and came up with this beautiful design! Thanks, Summer for letting me include your ring!

Cute idea!

Sleek and simple.

Non-traditional and gold.

What style do you love?