Not many couples meet via a Craigslist ad, but that’s exactly how today’s darling duo, Summer + Patrick, got to know each other 4 years ago! Patrick, an industrial engineer, was seeking a tenant for the barren Portland warehouse he’d just purchased, and Summer was set decorator looking for a live/work loft. Summer tells us, When we met for a tour, a vision began to develop that we hadn’t planned – we would become roommates upstairs, but the main floor should become a ‘hub’ for our friends and colleagues to see art, music, and retail pop ups, as well as a private event venue. The building had such a great vibe and history, and so much potential.
So, Summer + Patrick got to know each other well, and that space became one that we’ve also come to know + love quite well ourselves here at GWS – the bustling wedding venue Union Pine! Since these two are able to witnesses gorgeous weddings in their building several times a week, they knew their expectations for their own big day were high, but they were lucky enough to have a talented staff and network to tap into. While Summer handled the planning + design herself, she knew she + Patrick had to have Phil Chester on board for photos + Fiore Floral Design to beautify the setting…
We were honored to be able to host our nuptials on The Croft Farm, our friend’s property on Sauvie Island, just outside of Portland. The setting is incredibly special, with their amazing modern home surrounded by a lush CSA garden and rescue barn, sprawling land, blueberry fields, and a sheep pasture, all set with a backdrop of the rolling wooded hills of Forest Park. Achieving our natural grass aisle required we mow out the path in Spring, and Vail and Greg generously kept it mowed for us all these months. The arch we stood under was a serious feat to create, and our florist Megan executed our dream flawlessly.
Processional: Bridal Party: Lover’s Carvings – Biblio; Bride: Dearest – Black Keys
Recessional: Sail Away – Creedence Clearwater Revival
First Dance: Dearest – Performed acoustic by Emily Kokal of Warpaint
Our dear friend Emily played guitar and sang our first dance song (Dearest) while all of our guests huddled around us on the dance floor. A light rain started, and we completely lost ourselves in the magic of the night. It was a completely perfect moment that we will never forget.
I would suggest scaling back on Pinterest projects, and remember to keep things personal. Focus on including elements that reflect you and your partner, and don’t be afraid to edit things out that feel complicated or ambitious, because they’re likely to stress you out.
photography: Phil Chester // venue name: The Croft Farm, Portland, Oregon // event design: Bride // florals: Fiore Floral Design // wedding dress: Kaviar Gauche // hairpiece: Fiore Floral Design // bride's shoes: Max Studio // bridesmaid dresses: Bridesmaid's choice // hair stylist: Gold + Arrow // makeup artist: Gold + Arrow // groom attire: Bonobos // videography: Little Hike // paper goods: Studio Olivine // catering: Groundwork // cake: Bride's sister // music: DJ Joe Gross // officiant: Friend, Rick Potestio // rentals: Classic Vintage Rentals, NW Event Rentals, The Party Place // tents: Beckel Canvas
AMAZING place, venue, bride & groom :)
Thank you so much GWS, and thank you to all of the incredible folks who made our day so perfect.
Love the way the grass was cut down the isle to give separation between the guest and the bride.