This has to be the dreamiest outdoor venue we’ve ever seen! Imagine a larger-than-life Cathederal on the water with no walls…or the underside of Portland’s St. Johns Bridge. Between the stunner of a venue and a few other unique touches, this couple truly shared the best of their hometown with their family and friends.
Keep scrolling to see all of the beautiful photos by Lauryn Kay Photography. Elise Handler planned every detail, Blue Floral Company created all of the amazing florals for this special day at St. Johns Bridge. You can see all the images in the full gallery. Read on to hear more from planner, Elise Handler.
AN ADVENTUROUS COUPLE
Michelle and Will opted for a private church ceremony at the University Of Portland, officiated by her Uncle, at the church that they attend together. Will works in computer science but has a passion for brewing beer, so to compliment a local mom and pop shop’s wine and champagne, the beer on tap was made by the groom’s company, Inner Fire Brewing. Michelle works in healthcare as a facility planner. While Will loves trail running and Michelle is an avid Ashtanga yogi, together, they enjoy traveling, being outdoors, camping, and being home with their family. An outdoor, intimate, venue was the perfect selection for them to share a night with their closest family and friends.
A FEW SPECIAL TOUCHES
Michelle wore a Lena Medoyeff gown and Will opted for a Men’s Warehouse suit. After their private ceremony, they drove their beloved, orange VW Westfalia to their reception site, and Michelle danced and twirled around as soon as she saw their reception set up. Guests were greeted by a caricature artist sketching portraits, and enjoyed cake made by the bride’s Maid of Honor/Sister. Guests danced the night away under the bridge, and the illuminated staircase and deck made for the most dreamy evening views. The reception was held at the ever-popular Cathedral Park. We even brought in generators so that some avid sports watchers could still watch a big game on TV.
THE DESIGN
For the tablescape, Keen Events wanted to highlight the bridge and scenic portland landmark, so signage for the bar, tables, and seating chart all incorporated the popular bridges of Portland. The natural wood tables were adorned with glass votives filled with various buds including Garden Roses, several varieties of Dahlias, Eucalyptus, Smilax, Oakleaf Hydrangea, Viburnum Berry, Scabiosa, and Lamb’s Ear. We garnished the plates with a rosemary sprig and Katherine, of Blue Floral, also worked her magic to wrap the beams of the bridge with greenery to elevate the entire look and feel of the day. Guests sipped beer from local brewery, Inner Fire Brewing, wine, “True Love” cider from New West Cider, and cheered with Francoise Bedel Origin’elle Extra Brut.
