Portland Wedding Photography: Joelle + James at Union/Pine

I knew from my very first contact with Joelle that I was going to be absolutely delighted to photograph her winter wedding at Union/Pine in SE Portland. For one thing, my portfolio was filled with her friends and neighbors – a friend from high school, her former across-the-street neighbors, her godson, and several colleagues – not only is it super fun when that happens (Portland can feel like such a small town at times!), but it’s also always nice to see old photography clients all dressed up for wedding festivities. Also, I was super taken with her story – she told me that she and her fiancé James had been together for many years, but were consciously waiting until all their friends could be legally married before making it official. Once the supreme court’s decision legalized gay marriage earlier this year, they set about tying the knot!

There were so many great, personal details that you’d never suspect the actual event had been planned relatively quickly. Reverend Steve Sharp‘s very beautiful ceremony, which included a lovely and heartfelt musical interlude by Storm Large and Holcombe Waller, was intimate and touching. Meagan Adams of Fiore Floral Design created gorgeous arrangements, including an amazing garland above the ceremony spot that incorporated elements from the couple’s garden. And the delicious vegan food from Sushi Love, Obon, Back to Eden Bakery and Missionary Chocolates, some of James + Joelle’s favorite local haunts, arrived in never-ending mouthwatering waves. And did I mention the dancing? SO much dancing! Often wedding celebrations are about bringing together two families and two sets of friends, but it was lovely to see this already-close group celebrate a couple they clearly loved.

Congratulations on a wonderful event!