Mackenzie had discovered my work online, and she had really been struggling as to what approach she wanted to take when it came to a style for her wedding day. She was very into smallest of details and wanted to pick a photographer who could understand her vision and style to make sure everything aligned perfectly!

When we crossed paths on Instagram, Mackenzie found this was the approach that she did not even know she wanted – a more candid and documentary style to her day, as opposed to a more posed and traditional style. It seemed as if we could not have met at a more perfect time. Mackenzie & Ernie’s wedding was one of those ones I was dreaming of for months both because of their Italian luxury inspiration and of course, Mackenzie is the definition of a timeless beauty!

The Night Before

The “day” actually started a day before the wedding when I captured her rehearsal dinner which was held at her in-law’s home in Portland, Oregon. It was the most beautiful set up, joined by some of their closest friends and family who traveled in to celebrate the day. Everyone enjoyed the delicious food that was catered in for this sweet night before.

I found the rehearsal dinner to be a very intimate and welcoming event. It was the perfect time to speak to the people who were visiting them from out of town. I think sometimes we can forget how quickly the wedding day can flutter by.

We went home, and got some rest – as Mackenzie & Ernie got ready to say, “I Do.”

An Emotion-filled Morning

Something I found right away is how from each and every detail, it was obvious that Mackenzie has the most impeccable style – from the shoes she bought, to her dress, to her statement of a veil. She flew from Seattle to Los Angeles and would not settle until she found THE dress. It’s safe to say she had the ultimate determination for the details.

They began to get ready at the exquisite Waverly Country Club. While the girls were getting ready, I snuck around the grounds and was able to capture the slow moments before the excitement began. Vendors were putting on their finishing touches, and I snapped cute candids of the adorable flower girls getting pampered with their hair and makeup done.

I returned to the bridal suite, and documented portraits of Mackenzie getting in her dress. It was such a surreal moment for her and her mom. Mackenzie’s father had passed a few years ago, and having her mom there to support and stand by her side, meant more than words could describe.

Then, Mackenzie had a first look with her dad’s best friend, who when he was getting really sick – her father called his best friend and asked him to walk Mackenzie down the aisle. This moment was absolutely special, so emotional – lots of tears were shed.

Mackenzie and Ernie had their first look together. We took couple photos along the charming water, and explored the grounds a little more together. Mackenzie said they had never been more affectionate with one another before this day because all the giddiness and excitement – the energy was buzzing in the air.

Romantic Ceremony

We then made our way to the ceremony. A four string quartet, accenting the corner, was setting the mood for romance – so magical. Something I loved was how the ceremony was untraditional. Mackenzie and Ernie had a friend officiate for them, adding some extra comedic relief so any jitters were easily taken away. Ernie also had his best man, Kevin Love, by his side.

The two said, “I do”, and we made our way to photograph even more artistically STUNNING photos – Mackenzie looked worthy of a VOGUE magazine spread.

Dancing Under The Stars

The newlyweds entered into their reception straight into their first dance as husband and wife. It was such a sweet moment as they danced into this new chapter together, side by side. After, the family began toasts, as everyone was beginning dinner. I loved this idea – it was great way to keep everyone’s attention and share a meal while listening to the the heartfelt endearment filling the room

They topped the night off with guests stopping by a cute little gelato cart for dessert. Everyone danced the night away under the stars, with strands of lights twinkling above shining to the water below – encapsulating this picturesque venue.

The two celebrated for the rest of the evening with their loved ones, all in all was such a lovely time, and a wedding day I will never forget!