Tiffany blue and silver sequins covered the floor under the bare edison bulbs at Green Villa Barn just outside Independence, Oregon.
There aren’t many indoor venues outside Portland for winter weddings, but Ally + Patrick created an elegant space for their friends and family to celebrate their union. The weather was off and on all day with wind, dark clouds, sunshine, and rain… you really never know what you’re going to get at the end of February in the valley.
Ally’s bridal room was in full hustle-mode with all five bridesmaids doing hair and makeup at once. Mimosas were plentiful as was laughter and tears, smiles and hugs. The girls were all sporting leopard print robes with their hair in curlers when they gave Ally their gift to her: A book full of cards, photos, notes, memories, and love. Ally held it together remarkably well until she got to a photo of her Grandma and the tears wouldn’t stop for a solid five minutes. That’s what happens when you have two bestie MOHs! The guys arrived later and immediately took advantage of the foosball table upstairs before getting ready. In typical groom style Patrick and his groomsmen were casual, low-maintenance, and obviously hiding their giddy excitement for upcoming festivities.
Every wedding has elements that are specific and unique to the couple; Patrick’s boutonniere carried a charm necklace with photos of his mother’s parents, while Ally’s bouquet had a necklace with both a chicken and hummingbird charm tied around the stems. The opportunity to include a piece of your family and wear it on you is such a special practice that brings even deeper meaning to a day already full of joy.
Q1: What was your favorite part of the day?
Ally: My favorite part of the day was seeing everyone dressed all snazzy and supporting us. Also marrying my best friend, of course.
Patrick: My favorite part of the day was dancing in front of my friends and family with my wife.
Q2: What are you most looking forward to in married life?
Ally: I’m looking forward to lots of adventures.
Patrick: Setting and achieving goals together. Starting a family together.
Q3: What advice do you have for others?
Ally: My advice for wedding planning is don’t sweat the little stuff and enjoy the process!
Patrick: Support the bride because lots of pressure and things going on that week of.
