Indie Portland Elopement: Kari + Brian

portland wedding

Since we shared info about the Runway Pop-Up Wedding with you lovelies this morning, we thought it would be fun to highlight a rad Portland elopement, photographed by Kate Harrison, this afternoon! Kari + Brian love their city for its unassuming style, relaxed atmosphere and creative artisans, so when it came time to plan their small, intimate wedding they knew they wanted to celebrate their love locally and utilize as many Portland vendors as possible. It’s evident these two really thought through each element of their day + made it a point to include things that were meaningful to them + represent who they are together. Here’s more from Kari about some of their local vendors:

My one of a kind dress, made from men’s sweatshirt material, was made by local designer (and now friend), Alexa Stark; my bouquet and Brian’s boutonniere were designed by local ecoflorist (friend of a friend), Emerald Petals; and most meaningful of all, Brian himself, artist and craftsman of many mediums, made our rings out of Damascus steel, with the help of his father, Mastersmith Bruce Bump. We chose a courthouse ceremony for simplicity, affordability, and because it worked well with our urban-themed celebration. We wanted to enjoy one of the local hotels that we rarely, as locals, have an excuse to stay in. We selected the Ace Hotel for its quintessential Portland upcycled vintage style and because they have record players in the rooms, our favorite way to listen to music…

portland wedding

portland wedding

portland wedding

handmade wedding dress

portland wedding

portland_rings

portland wedding

portland wedding


Since the Ace was less than a mile from the courthouse, it allowed us to use pedicabs (bike-drawn carriages) as transportation to the ceremony for our entire wedding party!

portland wedding

portland wedding

portland wedding

portland wedding

portland wedding

groom

handmade wedding dress

portland wedding

portland wedding

portland wedding

portland wedding

portland wedding

Our Favorite Memory From The Wedding

It was difficult to identify a most memorable moment, because the whole day was so lovely. But Brian and I agree that if we had to chose one, it would be once we were all settled at the table in Clyde Common, right up against a huge window, and the respite of rain that had miraculously sparred us throughout our urban trek to and from the courthouse, gave way to a down pour. Nothing like the beauty of a powerful spring rain in Portland when you are inside a charming space, surrounded by loved ones, and about to ingest spectacular food and drink!

portland wedding

portland wedding

portland wedding

Our Advice To Those Planning Now

Do what YOU want. The day is for you and about you. And you can totally have a special, beautiful day without spending a ridiculous amount of money. Being creative is a big part of the fun of it all!

photography: Kate Harrison Photography // wedding dress: Alexa Stark // pre-ceremony location: Ace Hotel // floral designer: Emerald Petals // ceremony location: Multnomah County Courthouse // transportation: Portland Wedding Pedicabs

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