Playful Wedding in the Forest at House on Metolius
The Planning
Design / Vibe / Vision
We aimed to infuse the wedding design with vibrant colors and delightful surprises. The breathtaking ceremony unfolded beneath a modern oak chuppah meticulously handcrafted by their close friend and bridesmaid. Adorned with an asymmetrical, organic installation by Summer Robbins Flowers, the chuppah became a captivating focal point. Along the aisle, bursts of bright purple giant allium, fiery orange lilies, roses, spirea, and lush foliage evoked the enchanting forest surroundings.
As guests transitioned to the reception, they were welcomed into a space imbued with a light and contemporary ambiance. Throughout, touches of white enhanced the air of elegance, culminating in the striking presence of a sailcloth tent. Tables adorned with vibrant green plaid napkins and whimsical paper goods, complemented by gleaming silver accents, invited guests to partake in a celebration that was both refined and joyful.
Proposal Story
Leo proposed during a hike in Port Townsend, WA - a place that is very special to us. We stopped in front of the Point Wilson lighthouse where he asked the question. Torrie's mother makes jewelry in her spare time, and Leo had arranged for her to make a simple engagement ring. The ring featured a diamond that was used in Torrie's grandma's wedding ring. When she passed away, she passed the diamond down to Torrie.
Bridal Portraits
The Fashion
Wedding Gown
Torrie's wedding dress was a vision of ethereal beauty, featuring a pleated tulle swagged gown gracefully cascading off the shoulder. Soft drapes emerged from the center neckline, delicately framing her figure and leading to a spaghetti strap back. The dress exuded elegance with sunburst pleated, hand-crinkled soft tulle intricately woven throughout the body, extending down the center back to create both shape and movement.
Bridesmaid Dresses
Torrie's sister found a fabulous printed dress in greens and purples, this gown took center stage as both sister and maid of honor. Her choice of attire set the tone for the rest of the crew, who each sported a different color from the palette. It was a fun mix-and-match vibe that brought everything together seamlessly.
Groomsman Attire
Leo looked sharp in a tailored Todd Snyder blue suit, accentuated by a vibrant flower-printed tie featuring hues of yellow and orange.
Wedding Party
Ceremony
Cocktail Hour
The Details
Food & Drink
Guests were welcomed with a delectable charcuterie spread boasting a local selection of cured meats from Olympia Provisions, accompanied by an array of cheeses including bleu cheese on honeycomb and porcini-crusted goat cheese. Oysters on the half shell added a touch of coastal indulgence to the culinary experience.
As dinner commenced, guests were treated to a seed-to-table feast served family-style. The meal began with a refreshing shaved radish salad featuring frisée, mizithra cheese, seed brittle, and a drizzle of green goddess dressing, accented with a sprinkle of flake salt. Main courses included succulent pan-seared wild Pacific salmon and tender braised beef short ribs, accompanied by comforting sides such as wild mushroom risotto, roasted carrots with whipped feta & strawberries, and vibrant spring asparagus.
Torrie and Leo wanted their wedding cocktails to reflect their personalities and shared experiences. The Rhubarb Rye Julep honored Leo with rye whiskey, mint extract, and rhubarb shrub reminiscent of homemade pies and family traditions. Meanwhile, Torrie's love for fresh flavors inspired the Strawberry Vodka Basil Smash, featuring vodka, strawberry shrub, and basil for a vibrant and refreshing concoction. These signature drinks celebrated their journey and the blending of their passions, creating a toast to love and laughter on their special day.
Florals & Decor
Torrie's bouquet and Leo's boutonniere highlighted the cool tones in their color palette which were soft blues, lavenders, and purple, while their attendants' florals were in vibrant shades of orange. For reception, each table had locally-sourced, vibrant, seasonal florals in modern containers that reflected the whimsy and restrained elegance of the overall design.
Wedding Cake
Instead of the conventional wedding cake, Torrie & Leo delighted their guests with a delectable assortment of handmade pies sourced from their beloved local bakery in Portland. The tantalizing selection showcased the essence of Oregon with luscious marionberry pies, complemented by timeless favorites like key lime and raspberry rhubarb.
Special Detail #1
Leo's fondness for vintage American-style signage was beautifully reflected in the custom paper goods featured throughout the day. Encountering the All Good Signs vendor at a charming local establishment in Portland, they embarked on a collaborative journey to breathe life into their distinctive wedding signage, infusing the celebration with a nostalgic charm that captured Leo's passion perfectly.
Special Detail #2
Torrie & Leo's cherished furry companion, Penny, a spirited red pitbull, played a significant role in their wedding celebration. She proudly strolled down the aisle, bringing joy to all in attendance, and later charmed guests during cocktail hour, posing for delightful snapshots while adorned in her exquisite floral collar.
Special Detail #3
Bridesmaids were free to wear a dress of their own choosing, so long as they chose a color from a bright palette inspired by the paintings of Hilma af Klint.
Couple Portraits
Reception