What do you get when you take a lodge overlooking a waterfall, a gorgeous couple that can’t stop laughing together, and a small gathering of their closest family and friends? I’ll tell ya what – an intimate, loving, thoughtful, curated wedding day.
Salish Lodge & Spa overlooks Snoqualmie Falls, with its stunning views and trails along the river. Rachel + Elvin married on a Wednesday in late July (in hopes that the crowds would be fewer…maybe?), and we had just the right amount of sun and cloud coverage (a photographer’s dream).
One of the most important aspects of the day for R+E were their private vows and portraits of just the two of them. We visited the lower falls area, where they shared their vows in the quiet calmness of towering trees, and then we walked along the path to view the waterfall. There were so many beautiful settings along the way, so we stopped frequently along the walk to take advantage of them!
My favorite was at the end of our portrait time, when R+E bravely stepped out onto some rocks (suit, dress, heels an’ all!) so we could capture them with an unobstructed view of the river. I love the power and beauty of these images.
Following their portraits together, we took time for family photos prior to the ceremony on the back patio of Salish Lodge.
During the ceremony, they re-shared their vows so their family and friends could witness, and topped if off by breaking a glass in honor of Rachel’s Jewish heritage.
One of my favorite parts of a wedding day is the toasts. Sure, sure, sometimes they can go on a bit longer than people would like (especially when guests are waiting for dinner, hehe), but since I’m working anyway, I really appreciate this opportunity to get to know my couples on a deeper level, as their family and friends view them. It’s so special to hear the things they are admired for, their accomplishments, funny moments from their past, parents’ wishes for their children’s future together, and more. Each person present had the chance to share what they love and hope for Rachel + Elvin, and from the laughter and tears, it was clear that everyone enjoyed that time.
We were treated to a beautiful sunset to end the evening before they headed in to cut their cake.
Rachel + Elvin – huge congratulations, and thank you, thank you, thank you. It was an honor to photograph your day and get to know you both over these past few months. (I’ve taken photos for Elvin’s sister’s family for several momentous occasions, so it was extra special to be part of yet another family celebration.) The love and laughter you share is infectious, and it’s clear by the people who celebrated with you how much you value and put effort into your relationships. I look forward to hiking along the Snoqualmie River with you (and Kona!) when it’s NOT 80+ degrees and allergy season! 😉 I wish you so many years of happiness, adventures and fun as you continue to learn about each other and grow together. Big hugs, TB.
Vendors:
Venue: Salish Lodge & Spa
Catering + cake: Salish Lodge & Spa
Hair + makeup: Salon Maison
Floral + event design: Love Blooms Event Design
Videography: Daybreak Weddings
Photography: Tara Brown Photography (and a big shoutout to my second-shooter, Candace, who was an awesome teammate!)
