Location: Lake Oswego, Oregon, USA
Setting: An indoor & outdoor event venue
Season: Summer
How long did the couple plan the event: 1 year
The number of guests: 120
Wedding theme/style: Timeless, chic, romantic, fun.
Rachel and Thomas began their relationship by taking one brave step. Rachel saw Thomas on a friend’s Instagram story and found him cute. She gave him her number, thinking, “Why not?“.
“The moment I received her number, I was struck by her directness and confidence. I found this quality incredibly appealing—she knows what she wants! I like this!’ I thought and immediately messaged her,” recalled Thomas.
Their first date was at a ramen restaurant where they talked much and barely touched their food as they talked. This experience set the tone for their relationship. They enjoyed chatting, creating new experiences, traveling, and trying new restaurants and cuisines.
One Thursday, Thomas surprised Rachel by making a reservation at a winery despite not being a wine enthusiast. He acted as usual during the journey to the winery, but Rachel felt something special was happening. Upon their arrival, Thomas took her to a gazebo by the water. The bride recalls: “When we got to the gazebo that I had no interest in, he told me to look into the distance so he could take a picture of me. As I looked away, I heard his knee pop, and with that sound, I knew, “It was HAPPENING!”
Jumping to the big day! For Rachel, doing makeup on her own was important. She knows exactly what looks best on her elegant face. Plus, she even tried out a few makeup looks on herself, picking up some tips from TikTok along the way. The bride entrusted her wedding day hairstyle to her mother’s Korean hairstylist, who skillfully crafted a simple and elegant low bun despite the challenge posed by her thick, long Asian hair.
Rachel tried on over 60 wedding dresses before finding “the one.” She scoured social media for inspiration and saw her dream dress on Pinterest. However, the dress was on the brink of discontinuation. But Rachel was determined to have it for her big day. She immediately placed an order and spent hours perfecting it to her complexion.
On her wedding day, the bride looked stunning. Her off-the-shoulder dress by Made With Love Bridal featured a corset bodice, sheer tulle sleeves, and a dramatic lace train. It also had an illusion open back, adding a playful touch of trendiness to this timeless wedding gown. The fabric blends lace and tulle, enhancing its romantic and sophisticated aesthetic.
Thomas chose a timeless classic: a black suit with a black bow tie. It was a win-win option. He completed his outfit by adding a brown belt and a silver watch with a black dial.
The lovebirds eagerly awaited the moment they could finally see each other. They had been looking forward to this meeting for days, and the anticipation was almost too much to bear. Thanks to Analy Lee of Analy Photo, a gifted photographer who captured this and other essential wedding moments perfectly. She magically made the photographs chic but also sincere.
Analy says nothing excites her creativity more than getting to know the couples she works with. She enjoys learning about their unique quirks, sentimental activities, favorite foods, and more. She believes that the more she knows about her clients, the better their connection and understanding.
Rachel dreamt of an elegant, romantic atmosphere with soft whites, creams, and blush tones. The ceremony was set against the backdrop of lush green hills, with delicate floral arrangements adding a touch of ethereal beauty to the scene.
“Everything went according to my plan and vision. It was surreal to see my Pinterest board come alive. The team I hired was just so amazing. I could not have asked for a better team and day,” the bride says.
The ceremony ended with the significant moment of Rachel and Thomas signing their names, marking the start of their journey as husband and wife.
The reception’s design incorporated many light colors, primarily white. The space was enriched with clean and simple designs, neat tablecloths, and handwritten lettering fonts. The flower centerpieces were particularly noteworthy due to their unique shapes, which exuded a delicate and airy vibe.
Rachel and Thomas were determined to infuse their wedding with their unique personalities while honoring their heritage. After exchanging vows and rings, they bowed to both sets of parents, a meaningful Korean tradition that showed respect and gratitude. They also opted for a departure from conventional bridal parties and toasts. Instead, they appreciated their guests, especially their families, with heartfelt thanks and genuine warmth.
The traditional part of the evening ended after the cake-cutting ceremony. The cake was beautiful and blended perfectly with the overall theme of the wedding. There was also a delicious sweet table that offered a wide variety of sweets for everyone.
During the golden hour, Rachel changed into a stunning silk dress, and the couple had a sweet time together. Analy captured their emotions against the backdrop of a beautiful sunset.
Finally, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived – the dancing! The newlyweds, their closest friends, and family hit the dance floor excitedly. The music filled the room as the guests danced the night away, creating unforgettable memories.
Advice from the couple:
• Having fun was our priority for the day, and we had FUN. We had such a chill and fun day because we hired the right vendors, who made it so easy for us.
PHOTOGRAPHER Analy Lee | PLANNER Your Perfect Bridesmaids | VIDEOGRAPHER Emma K Burke | VENUE Iron Light | FLORALS Jodi Iverson | MUAH Lisa Noh | DRESS A&Be Bridal | SUIT Indochino | CATERING Pearl Catering | SIGNAGE Letters & Dust | STATIONERY Minted | DJ Pure Pulse Entertainment | RENTALS Arden Event Co | DESSERTS Lux Sucre Desserts
