Melissa & Jonathan's Portland Wedding

Melissa and Jonathan planned their wedding in less than 2 months and I thought they did an exceptional job. Especially considering Melissa's closest people were travelling from the UK! The day started at their home in Portland, filled with all their people getting ready together. Once we had everyone photo-ready (and ceremony ready), we did their first look at one of my absolute favorite places in the city: Cathedral Park. Jonathan was taken back by his bride and we loved the surprise and awe in his face as he saw her for the first time. They held their ceremony at Oaks Pioneer Church in Sellwood then completed the day with a reception in North Portland's Village Ballroom. My favorite part of the whole day - aside from how easy and fun Melissa and Jonathan were to photograph - was LIVE KARAOKE! Hans and the Wanted played some great songs to get the party going, then after an hour, they opened up the mic to guests brave enough to sing in front of everyone. It was fantastic. I loved watching Jonathan grapple with what song to sing for the longest time, then once he stepped up, he sang sweet song after sweet song to his new wife including "It's a Beautiful Day" by U2 and "I Can't Help Falling in Love With You" by Elvis. I mean come on, how sweet is that? I wish live karaoke was at every wedding. I would never pack up and leave!

VENDORS:
reception venue & catering: Village Ballroom
hair/makeup: Kelli Thomsen
rentals: Barclay events
bouquets: Sammy's Flowers
dress: The English Department
live band: Hans and the Wanted