This is part 1 of maaaaybe three of Andrea + Ryan’s wedding festivities in Portland, Oregon. Pleasure does not seem an adequate word to describe what I felt about being present to witness the love between these two and their friends and family. In their kindness, Andrea + Ryan invited me to their rehearsal dinner at the Portland Rose Garden where they gathered and served bbq to their closest people, gave them gifts and were showered with their loving words.

In the world of weddings, it’s SO easy to get bogged down by the need to make your day one of perfection. It’s so easy as a photographer, to feel like I have to capture the most epic portraits at the most epic of locations. Yes, these two were married in an epically beautiful location (more of that coming), but truthfully this was my favorite part to the whole weekend. Andrea and Ryan have a love that’s deep and beautiful. I watched it in their interactions with each other, their kind words and gentle touches. But what is even more beautiful is the way they make everyone around them feel. These two literally brought the glasses and cups from their own home so their people could use them. They set up a whole day to spend with those they love. I was able to learn about them through the words of their loved ones. I watched them serve each other in a beautiful afternoon outpouring of love.

I was so privileged to be welcomed into this afternoon. Not only as a “vendor,” but as someone treasured. They even made sure I had gluten free buns for my BBQ sand which! When comfort like that happens and I feel at home, I’m able to make these types of images. The images I’m most proud of because they’re the type of images I would want of my own family. I am able to be a seer, surveyor, sitting back and appreciating the details and connections so that my couple can live them. Please enjoy!