Location: Sammamish, Washington, USA
Setting: Backyard, lakeside
Wedding season: Summer
The number of guests: 57
How long did the couple plan the event: 6 months
Wedding theme/style: Chic, elegant, timeless, summer.
Nate and Pawehi’s love story began in 2014. It unfolded through Twitter messages and blossomed into a beautiful journey toward their recent summer wedding in the picturesque city of Sammamish, Washington. Their story is a testament to the power of genuine connections and the dream of a life by the lake.
The couple’s journey began during their high school days when social media served as the bridge that connected them. Nate, who was a grade above Pawehi, initiated the conversation directly on Twitter, sparking a connection that would stand the test of time.
The bride shared this heartwarming moment:
“Our proposal story was funny because I had zero clue it was happening! Nate asked me a while ago how I’d want to be proposed to, and I said with my family and closest friends, not thinking about how that would feel.
On the day of our proposal, I had a spa day with my mom. She was hinting – get your nails done in a natural color, wear white, curl your hair. I needed to figure it out. Then Nate surprised me in the backyard of my childhood home. He was standing in an igloo tent with twinkly lights and candles everywhere. He gave a beautiful speech about our life together and asked me to marry him. The whole time, I could see faces behind him, hidden by another tent and decorations, so I was very distracted and ready for him just to put the ring on my hand, haha. Ultimately, I said yes, and we spent the rest of the night celebrating with our family and friends.”
The inspiration behind the wedding theme was deeply personal. Nate and Pawehi envisioned a celebration surrounded by their closest friends and family, echoing the dream of living by the lake. Having spent their youth exploring the shores of Lake Sammamish, it was expected that they exchanged vows in a place that held so many memories.
Pawehi spent a beautiful morning of her wedding day among her beloved friends. For each of them, the bride prepared a small gift. The bride left no detail unconsidered, giving special attention to the attire of her bridesmaids. Long silk, multicolored dresses perfectly complemented the bride’s gown, creating a harmonious ensemble.
Pawehi opted for a simple, glowy, and everyday look that reflected her natural beauty. With loose curls and minimal makeup, she aimed to be true to herself, embracing an effortless elegance that complemented the overall vibe of the day. Her minimalist silk dress by Alexandra Grecco, adorned with an open-back detail, created an elegant bridal look. Pawehi complemented her attire with classic white shoes from Badgley Mischka.
One of the touching moments occurred when Pawehi’s father saw his beautiful daughter in her wedding dress; he couldn’t hold back tears, as this moment was incredibly emotional for him.
The first look between Nate and Pawehi was an extraordinary moment. He awaited her on the pier, and as she approached from behind, gently touching his shoulder, Nate turned around to see his beloved in her wedding dress, unable to hold back tears. This poignant moment was beautifully captured by the photographer Alexandrae Photo, who skillfully conveyed the emotion and tenderness of the scene. Following this, the couple exchanged letters they had written for each other.
The portraits crafted by Alexandra for the couple are genuinely captivating. Each photograph vividly reflects their love and tender emotions, leaving an indelible impression.
Before the commencement of the ceremony, photographer Alexandrae Photo managed to capture another touching moment: Pawehi’s heartfelt reunion with her brother. These poignant photographs will stir emotions, brimming with warmth and genuine, unfiltered sentiment.
Every detail of the wedding was meticulously planned, reflecting the vibrant individuality of the couple. Bright flowers and a pathway to the ceremony, adorned with white rose petals, created a unique romantic atmosphere. Ensuring the comfort of their guests, the couple thoughtfully provided paper umbrellas and fans for each attendee, adding a delightful touch to the celebration.
As the ceremony began, Nate walked down the aisle accompanied by his parents. The bride, escorted by her father, made her way to the altar, creating a special moment for everyone present as the couple exchanged vows. It was truly a remarkable moment.
Following the ceremony, photographer Alexandrae captured beautiful portraits of Nate and Pawehi with their families and lively, emotional photos with friends.
After the touching wedding ceremony, guests had the opportunity to gather for a cocktail hour, engaging in conversations with each other, Pawehi, and Nate. It was a time to share emotions and impressions from this significant event. The highlight of the bar was the selection of drinks curated by the bride and groom – their favorite cocktails, allowing them to share a piece of their tastes with family and friends.
Another meaningful detail was the personalized matchsticks, bearing the newlyweds’ surname and the date of their wedding. These matchsticks served not only as a practical item but also as a small keepsake for each guest to take home, a tangible reminder of this special day.
The wedding reception unfolded right on the lakeside. Rectangular tables, adorned with white tablecloths and adorned with vibrant floral arrangements and candles, looked stunning, exuding atmosphere of elegance and aesthetic refinement.
The arrival of the newlyweds was met with loud and joyful exclamations from the guests. Everyone was delighted to see Nate and Pawehi and share in the joy of this beautiful evening.
However, what truly set this wedding apart was its emotional depth. Long and heartfelt speeches from family and friends painted a vivid picture of Nate and Pawehi’s 9-year journey. Guests were treated to a personal narrative, a mosaic of shared memories that highlighted the couple’s enduring connection.
The highlight of the evening came when Pawehi and Nate filled a tower of champagne glasses, sharing the effervescent joy with their guests as they distributed the bubbly drink of celebration.
The first dance of the bride and groom left no one indifferent. As a sweet melody filled the air, Nate and Pawehi expressed their love for each other through the graceful movements of their dance.
Afterward, two equally touching dances followed as Pawehi shared a dance with her father, and Nate invited his mother to join him on the dance floor. These were genuinely heartwarming and soulful moments.
As the evening unfolded, Pawehi changed into a cocktail-appropriate ensemble. A short dress adorned with beads and sequins, as if crafted to ensure its wearer would radiate throughout the night. In this attire, Pawehi looked incredibly stylish and festive.
The couple curated a playlist of 70s classic rock and nostalgic tunes, a reflection of their shared love for music that spanned generations.
Advice from the couple:
• We recommend sitting down with your partner and internalizing your perfect wedding day. Who do you want there, and what will make that day the most memorable and stress-free day? Social media, social obligations, and cost aside, what makes sense for you as a couple? You want to walk away from your wedding day with zero regrets!
PHOTOGRAPHER Alexandrae Photo | PLANNING, CATERING & DESSERT Table Catering Co. | VENUE Blue Heron Lakehouse | RENTALS Cort Party Rental | DRESS Alexandra Grecco, The Dress Theory Seattle | SHOES Badgley Mischka | FLORALS Flori Flowers | DJ Groove on Hyde Street
