Even just talking about Kimberly and Nate’s wedding in Portland brings a smile to my face! I remember the first time I spoke with Kimberly on the phone about her Hoyt Arboretum wedding.  I was sitting at Good Coffee in Southeast Portland and I could just hear her smile through the phone. When we hung up, a complete stranger asked me if photography was what I did full time because I looked so happy and it sounded fun. I realized I also had a huge smile on my face, and brides like Kimberly were exactly why!

Kimberly and Nate radiate positivity and excitement! Even when plans changed, they never got less excited. They kept their original date and ceremony venue, The Redwood Deck in Hoyt Arboretum, but reduced the guest list to immediate family and the bridal party with plans for a bigger reception later in 2021. One of the best decisions they made for their wedding in Portland was to keep on their planner from their original plans and can I just say – THANK GOD! Keeping their planner was EVERYTHING! She was superwoman and not only made sure everything was on time and smooth, but she also was a calming presence as someone who has all the answers. Highly recommend adding a planner to your big day dream team, no matter the size and keeping them even if you downsize your event.

 Kimberly and Nate had SO MUCH FUN planning their wedding and talking about all the possibilities. Their families are from Kansas City and had so many great ideas on how to weave their hometown into their new home of Portland and make the day super sentimental. Nate’s uncle officiated and Kimberly’s family hand made the arbor for the ceremony and drove it all the way out from Kansas City! It is now sitting in their backyard as a garden arbor. Can you imagine looking out your windows at something so sentimental? Just the sweetest!

 Let’s all take a minute to appreciate their stunning floral design – it was SO soft and romantic and looked like a dream in the middle of the woods decking out their altar. But let’s not forget her bouquet though – all the heart eyes! When plans changed, their sweet as can be florist even offered their storefront as an intimate reception space and it was just perfect - what cozy floral dreams are made of! They even incorporated Kimberly’s collection of vintage plates for the dinner, another sweet personal touch. The room and truly their whole day simply glowed with candlelight and love, a complete reflection of Kimberly and Nate’s hearts of gold!

Ceremony Venue | Hoyt Arboretum

Reception Venue | Brier + Ivy Shop

Photographer | Madeline Rose Photo

Planning + Styling | Kayloe Bridal

Florist | Brier + Ivy

HAMU | Kayla Nicole

Bride’s Dress | Emily Hart

Groom’s Attire | The Black Tux

Catering | White Pepper

Cake | Dream Cakes

Rentals | Great Jones NW

Love this romantic wedding in Portland and want to learn more about Madeline Rose Photo? Check out more on the blog or contact me!