Trevor & Iana's Aerie at Eagle Landing Summer Wedding | Kari Rae Photography, Portland Oregon Wedding Photographer

Some weddings are more emotional for me than others. Not because they aren't all beautiful in their own way, but because I have a different kind of connection with the couple. (I'm laughing right now at the thought of saying, "This was not one of my more emotional weddings." haha!)

This was definitely a more emotional one for me. I have known the beautiful bride, Iana, since we were in the 3rd grade.

I went to a new gymnastics gym where her parents both coached, and she's one of the first girls I remember meeting. We quickly became friends, along with her sister Kami, and spent countless days sleeping at each others' houses, choreographing dances, fueling our obsession with the gentlemen of 'N Sync (JT all the way!), spending every weekend at gymnastics competitions & even traveling to different states for some, and giggling. And giggling. And giggling. 'Cause that's what girls do! It was a fun childhood. 

If you had told me at the age of 10 that one day, Iana and I would work together, I would guess that it was as celebrities in a band, or backup dancers for 'N Sync.

And while that would have been really cool, I honestly prefer this dream-turned-reality.

The real life fairy tale that is full of Trevor's pursuit and these two falling in love and committing to forever with each other as best friends. Reconnecting with a childhood friend to be a part of her gorgeous love story is a privilege I never would have dreamed of. So blessed!

Trevor & Iana, I adore you guys... 

Oregon Wedding at Cedar Springs Country Estate | Kari Rae Photography, Portland Wedding Photographer

I was probably a little sweaty when I first met Amanda. In the middle of one of our hottest weddings last summer, she stood by her dear friend Jessica as a bridesmaid. This year, their roles were switched and I got to be there again! But not so sweaty this time, which is always nice. 

Amanda & Camron are so much fun, as was their wedding day. Thank you guys for having me be a part of your story; it's truly an honor. :)  Enjoy!

Dan & Maddi's Green Villa Barn Wedding | Portland Wedding Photographer | Happy Anniversary

A year ago on May 5th, I had the pleasure of photographing Dan & Maddi's wedding day at the Green Villa Barn in Independence, Oregon. On their anniversary, I was still on Maui shooting a wedding with Anthem Photography by Maria Lamb. The fun thing is, Maria second-shot Dan & Maddi's weeding with me! So we celebrated together ;) As a special congrats to D&M on their first anniversary, I thought I'd post their wedding to the blog! Who knows why I didn't the first time.

Maddi and I are now dreaming of & planning a destination shoot for the two of them... here's hoping! :)

Dan and Maddi, Happy 1st Anniversary!! Thank you so much for letting me be a part of your day..it was beautiful; as is your love for each other. :) What a pleasure to document it! You two are awesome...many blessings for all the years of your marriage.

Rory & Erin's Mt. Hood Wedding | Oregon Wedding Photographer

It was 1 year and 5 days ago when I first heard from Erin. I had completed my first season of weddings (phew!) and the new year had begun.

She wrote to me saying that she was getting married in September up at the gorgeous Timberline Lodge on Mt. Hood.

We talked, decided we were a fabulous fit for each other, and booked their wedding! September 9, 2012. I. could. not. wait.

We kept in contact throughout the year - dreaming and planning and getting giddy about the day. It was all worth it.

Rory & Erin have two precious little girls, who were very involved in the ceremony...perusing the aisle and winning over the hearts of all the guests :)

Overall, it was a lovely day, and I can't wait to share these images from our freezing cold September morning on the mountain.

Ceremony Location: Timberline Lodge, Raven's Nest Timberline also catered and provided the cake! They are a fantastic venue and I highly recommend them for a smooth, lovely wedding day

Florist: Distinctive Designs by Denice

Hair Stylist & Makeup Artist: Aleah Pursley - Stylist

Wedding Dress: Allure, from Blush Bridal Boutique Erin & Rory, thank you for choosing Kari Rae Photography to capture the joy & beauty of your life, your love, YOU!

Matt & Lindsey's Oregon Vineyard Wedding - Kari Rae Photography

There are some weddings that just leave you feeling more in love. Matt & Lindsey's was just that. Not to mention blessed. Actually, the day started off a little rocky for me. My sweet & handsome husband was "assigned" to be my second shooter & assistant for the day, but as we were driving to the venue (McMenamins Edgefield in Troutdale, Oregon), I realized that the cold he was fighting was worse than we thought. I quickly called up my new friend Becca (another photographer whom I had just met a few days prior), and she came to my rescue! By the grace of God, she was free on this lovely day and available to make it to the venue before I even started shooting! So, a HUGE thanks goes out to Miss Becca Dryer for all of your help!

But back to the newlyweds... Matt & Lindsey are a couple that you can look at and just know that they belong to each other. Together, they are so peace-filled, gracious and joyful. Matt has spent a few years serving our country (thank you for your service!!), and is clearly a strong man. But the way he interacts with Lindsey is full of grace and a tender heart...and Lindsey? She absolutely lights up whenever he is around.

 

The spot where they had their first date, and then their first kiss, is now the location where they saw each other for the first time on their wedding day...

I always work with my couples to figure out the best timeline for photos on their big day...so the fantastic hour of couple's portraits we have was spent all around the amazing campus of McMenamin's Edgefield.

The Wedding Party truly lived up to the latter half of their name :) So fun!

(Thank you, Becca, for capturing the above 3 images - they are lovely portraits!!)

LOVE their gold rings.

Tablescapes and details - so classy and elegant. The peach, green and creamy tan color scheme was incredibly lovely.

Aaaand a cigar bar. Nothing could be cooler.

And the two shall become one...

Immediately following the ceremony, Matt & Lindsey ran off into a garden to spend a few minutes basking in the joy that is known as wedded bliss. :) These were beautiful moments. I'm surprised these pictures came out clearly...my eyes were misty the entire time.

This reception was sentimental, funny, and a party all in one. Everything it should be.

Matt & Lindsey, if I haven't made it clear yet...I like you guys a lot. Thank you so much for loving each other with tender spirits and blazing hearts. You are in for a lifetime of blessings from our God!