Have you ever wondered what a wedding photographer’s big day would look like? Well, today’s bride, Mattie, has seen it all and it shows! We’re talking styling on POINT. But the best part about it? Even though she’s been a part of so many couples’ dream days, she and her love, Peter, made sure to let their personalities shine through and truly make the day about them, with the help of planner Union Event Co. And that’s what we’re ALL about at GWS.
The two knew they wanted to get married in the fall, so that’s where all their inspiration began: with autumn. Mattie tells us: We really wanted to find a venue that would be a showcase of the Pacific Northwest for all of our out of town guests, and The Tin Roof Barn ended up being perfect. Mountain views, beautiful foliage, and a 100-year-old barn. What more can you ask for?
Let’s head to the PNW and see all the details Phil Chester captured!
The Details
The most memorable for Peter was our first look. I kept it together but he let the tears roll. He had been thinking of that moment for a long time and when it finally happened he was overcome with happiness.
For me, it was walking down the aisle with my dad to Peter. All of my butterflies were gone as soon as I saw him waiting there and I was just so freaking ready to marry him!
Our first memorable moment as a newly minted married couple came during my dad's speech when he gifted us his teardrop trailer! It caught us by complete surprise (as evidenced by our faces). Now we get to plan a road trip honeymoon to visit our National Parks.
The Wedding Party
Lookin’ GLAM, gals!!
Carousel
Carousel
We dig how the groomsmen rocked similar looks, yet they were all uniquely their own.
The Sweet Outdoor Ceremony
Processional: Ends of the Earth by Lord Huron
Recessional: 1901 by Phoenix
First Dance: All Your Favorite Bands by Dawes
Can’t stop starring at those sleeves + the train + all that lace!!
The Newlyweds
Being a wedding photographer myself gave us some advantages in planning our day. We had a good idea of how long to allow for photos and had an idea of how much Phil would have on his plate, so we staggered our time getting ready and knocked off wedding party photos early. What was most important to us was to be present and accountable to each other and no one else.
Whimsical + wild! Lucy’s Informal Flowers created a bouquet that captured the quintessence of the surrounding environment, and also featured all those moody fall florals.
How incredible is that gown?! Mattie tells us: As a wedding gift, my Aunt Jeanne has paid for all of her niece’s wedding dresses. I was the last to get married so that made finding mine feel extra special. I came across my dress online before we were even engaged and when it was time to shop I remembered the name of it: The Winnie Gown by Hayley Paige.
I asked the girl working at a&bé Minneapolis if they had it, I figured it was a long shot, but hey, can’t hurt to check. She told me they had one and it was half off the price because it was a sample. I tried it on along with only a few other dresses but knew immediately it was the one. My mom and brother agreed + I took it home that day.
For the décor, M+P wanted to have a very natural and organic feeling…so the florals + foliage were abundant.
Do whatever you want because to most guests it's just one magical day, but it's your day FOREVER. Also, wear comfortable shoes, make alone time for you and your partner (actually put it on the schedule), hire a coordinator if it's in your budget, be kind to all of your vendors, and hire an awesome photographer.
The Barn Reception
How dreamy is this barn venue?
The tables were set to look like a dreamy autumnal harvest using fresh pears, white pumpkins, deep leafy greens, bright oranges, and moody reds.
We were also married on National Public Lands Day. Some of our very favorite trips have been to our nation’s parks so we used postcards of the National Parks as our table numbers.
For the sweet treats, it was all about this tasty spread of cake, cookies, and berry bars!
Wishing you two all the happiness in the world + congratulations on your marriage! <3
photography: Phil Chester // venue name: Tin Roof Barn, White Salmon, Washington // planning: Union Event Co // florals: Lucy's Informal Flowers // wedding dress: Hayley Paige // wedding dress boutique: A and B Bridal
nice couple and very beautiful picture
great full blog
Gorgeous rustic barn wedding! The long illusion sleeves with a champagne hue is a gorgeous pick for the wedding dress.
Very beautiful wedding. I love your wedding dress!
Just perfect !
Gorgeous wedding .. ♥♥
Epic styling and imagery!
Love it.
Just wow! Look at that venue! One of the most beautiful barn weddings I’ve seen.