Location: Hood River, Oregon, USA
Setting: Private Property
Wedding season: Spring
The number of guests: 100
How long did the couple plan the event: 1 year
Wedding theme/style: Modern, elegant, Japandi with a Chinese twist.
Melina and Bob’s love story began at Washington State University. However, it wasn’t until their last year in college that their paths truly crossed. Bob, known for his dedication to the college football team, stuck around for one final season, earning him the title of a “super senior” in his fifth year. On the other hand, Melina was in her senior year, ready to embrace the final chapter of college life.
Timing has a funny way of working out in life, and for Melina, that year was particularly significant. Just three weeks before they officially got together, Melina had ended a three-year relationship and had plans to relish the single life for a while. Little did she know that Bob was about to change the course of her plans.
Melina and Bob had known each other for about 2.5 years before they became a couple, initially as mutual friends. Fate, however, had other plans. It was a memorable Wing Wednesday, a cherished tradition for many college students, that marked the beginning of their romantic journey. With a nudge from Melina’s matron of honor, Bob was encouraged to approach her and initiate a flirtatious conversation.
Their connection blossomed into a beautiful and lasting love story from that moment. And 7.5 years later, and they stand together, ready to embark on the next chapter of their lives as a married couple. Their journey is a testament to the idea that sometimes, the most meaningful relationships are the ones that surprise you when you least expect them. Here’s to Melina and Bob and the adventures and love ahead!
The Griffin House offered a breathtaking backdrop, with a spectacular view of the majestic mountains on the other side of the Columbia River Gorge. The natural beauty of the surroundings added an extra layer of enchantment to Melina and Bob’s special day, making it a truly unforgettable experience for all who attended.
Milena’s wedding look perfectly reflected her desire for a modern, classic, and timeless style that seamlessly complemented the unique atmosphere of the wedding day. Milena wanted a look that elevated her everyday style, enhancing her natural beauty while maintaining a sense of understated elegance. To achieve this, she enlisted the expertise of The Wildeflower Co. for her hair and makeup. The result was a stunning and timeless appearance that perfectly encapsulated the essence of her wedding day. The bride radiated grace and sophistication throughout her special day with her modern yet classic attire.
Her wedding gown, in particular, embodied Milena’s vision. It was a transformative masterpiece, featuring removable sleeves that she wore during certain parts of the day. It later transitioned into a sleeveless look, allowing her to enjoy the remainder of the day comfortably and elegantly.
In line with Milena’s preferences for a modern and elegant wedding, the bridesmaid dresses were chosen to reflect her taste. The bridesmaids donned pastel green dresses, adding a touch of soft and refreshing color to the wedding.
As the groom got ready, a mix of excitement and anticipation filled the air, mirroring the energy of the day ahead.
During their heartwarming first look, as Milena approached, the groom’s eyes welled up with tears of joy and love, unable to contain his overwhelming emotions. In that beautiful moment, it was evident that their love was so deep and profound that it moved him to tears.
The couple’s cherished dog, Chip, was an integral part of their wedding day, getting ready with Bob, walking down the aisle, and even adding some canine charm to the reception by mingling with guests and patiently waiting for tidbits under the bride and groom’s dinner table.
The ceremony took place against a spectacular backdrop, showcasing breathtaking views that added a layer of magic to the heartfelt event. Despite the larger guest count, the atmosphere remained intimate, with every attendee having played a significant role in Milena and Bob’s relationship over their seven-and-a-half-year journey. Family members and friends who had witnessed their individual growth and their blossoming love story from childhood through college were all part of this beautiful celebration.
During their wedding ceremony, Milena and Bob exchanged heartfelt vows, promising to support and love each other through all of life’s adventures, making a lifelong commitment to cherish and care for one another.
With her keen eye and artistic vision, photographer Taylor Stuck expertly captured the essence of Milena and Bob’s special day, turning moments into timeless memories. Her attention to detail and ability to seize candid, heartfelt moments added a beautiful dimension to the wedding photography. Taylor’s talent ensured that every emotion, every glance, and every smile was preserved for the couple to cherish for years to come.
The 35mm film photography brought a unique and nostalgic charm to the wedding, creating unforgettable memories that transported us back in time. Each click of the analog camera captured moments with a depth and warmth that felt timeless, ensuring that the day’s memories would be cherished for generations to come. The film’s grainy texture and authentic feel added a touch of vintage romance to Milena and Bob’s wedding album, making it a truly unforgettable keepsake.
During the cocktail hours and reception, guests were treated to a culinary delight with a customized menu that reflected the couple’s creativity and love for unique flavors. Working closely with their talented caterer, Devil’s Food Catering, the lovebirds curated an unforgettable Asian-fusion menu, ensuring that their guests enjoyed delicious dishes and embarked on a flavorful journey that added a unique dimension to the overall wedding experience.
Florists Brier & Ivy played an instrumental role in bringing the couple’s vision to life. With a keen understanding of the fusion between contemporary modern Scandinavian styles and Milena’s cultural heritage, they created stunning floral arrangements that seamlessly integrated these elements, adding a natural and vibrant touch to the wedding’s design. Their work beautifully complemented the overall aesthetic, ensuring that the floral decor reflected the couple’s unique and inspiring love story.
The excellent work of design and planning by Luxe Productions played a pivotal role in bringing the couple’s vision to life. With meticulous attention to detail, Luxe Productions skillfully executed the fusion of Scandinavian and contemporary styles, ensuring that every aspect of the wedding seamlessly reflected the couple’s unique heritage and love story. Their expertise and creativity transformed the wedding into a masterpiece, leaving guests in awe and creating unforgettable memories for Milena and Bob.
The talented Hey Halle brought their creative touch to the wedding with exquisite signage and paper goods. At the same time, Chip, the beloved canine, took center stage as the face of the bar, where a customized painting of his endearing face graced the signage, adding a delightful and personalized touch to the celebration.
The reception was a heartwarming celebration filled with a tapestry of emotions, where laughter, love, and the cherished presence of their beloved ones created an atmosphere of pure joy and warmth for the newlyweds.
Bob’s dance with his mother was a heartfelt moment that encapsulated their special bond, evoking tender emotions among the guests. In place of the traditional bride’s dance with her father, the couple treated everyone to a captivating performance that exemplified their unique and creative approach to celebrating their love.
Takumi Patisserie, a fusion of Japanese and French pastry expertise, crafted an immaculate cake adorned with stunning floral designs. This culinary masterpiece delighted the taste buds and served as a visual masterpiece, elevating the wedding’s dessert experience to perfection.
Their first dance was a symbol of their blossoming love, just like a flower unfurling its petals, evoking a sense of beauty and growth in their journey together.
The evening dance party came alive with an abundance of fun and energy, thanks to the talented DJ Casey Kay. With an incredible playlist and infectious beats, Casey Kay had everyone on their feet, dancing the night away. It was a night of pure joy and unforgettable moments on the dance floor, making it a celebration to remember.
PHOTOGRAPHER Taylor Stuck | VIDEOGRAPHER DeLeon Media | PLANNER & DESIGNER Luxe Productions | VENUE The Griffin House | FLOWERS Brier & Ivy | CAKE Takumi Patisserie | MUAH The Wildeflower Co. | DJ Casey Kay | CATERING & BAR Devil’s Food Catering | RENTALS Arden Event Collective | SIGNAGE & PAPER GOODS Hey Halle
