Brianna + Calvin's Intimate Wedding in Portland
Brianna and Calvin describe their love as “adventurous” and I was lucky enough to be invited along for a special look into their sweet bond. From the day we met, I knew I was going to have a strong connection with Brianna and Calvin. We immediately connected on a deeper level relating to many things, specifically the fact that we had all moved to the beautiful Pacific Northwestern state of Oregon from the hustle and bustle of Boston. In January of 2020, I shot their engagement photo session, then we did another session together this past spring! We have had a LOT of time to really get to know each other, and I’m so glad we did.
After many months of waiting, postponing their original 2020 date, and making many changes, these two finally got married at their intimate wedding in Portland.
Their wedding day came together seamlessly after the challenges that came with changing venues, but as a result, their whole day captured the adventurous love Brianna and Calvin share.
They married at Forest Park in Portland, Oregon. Specifically, at the Steven’s Pavillion. Let me tell you, public park weddings are a dream! Especially in Portland. We were surrounded by natural beauty and the iconic tall trees, an Oregon staple! The weather ended up being absolutely perfect. We were anticipating crazy heat but were met with a cloudy cool day and were giddy over this- it had been a HOT summer! All of the stars were aligning for Brianna and Calvin’s wedding day. A good friend officiated the ceremony which made the whole event very personal; he told their love story including lots of sweet memories and hilarious jokes. There was not a dry eye in the house! Their ceremony was perfect and included many personal details and family traditions. Brianna and Calvin “Jumped the Broom” at the end of their ceremony and Calvin’s sister read a wonderful piece about their African American tradition.
Following the intimate wedding ceremony, Brianna and Calvin invited their guests to a perfectly styled reception held on a private farm just north of Portland. Sat among family-style tables with luxurious details guests were grinning ear to ear, how could you not? This space was beautiful! The modern Scandinavian-style barn was beautifully set among golden fields surrounding their dinner reception. I love how their bright and airy reception location contrasted with the moodiness of their rich forest ceremony. Reception tables were dressed with gorgeous floral arrangements from Song Bird Floristry and styled in terracotta and amber glass vases that complemented the mustard napkins, creating a warm and welcoming space. Black tinted stemware was paired with black and gold flatware, chargers, and the most beautiful chairs. Everything about their reception was perfect, however, there was one very special edition this farm brought that really pulled it all together… Alpacas!
After the most delicious family-style dinner catered by Devils Food Catering, (yes, I’m still dreaming about the appetizers and cocktails, it was the best wedding food I’ve ever had, seriously!) Brianna and Calvin invited their guests to feed the alpacas after dinner and it was a moment everyone was thrilled to be a part of! I was overjoyed to finally see these two get married and it was a wedding full of elements to boast about. Enjoy!
Photographer | Madeline Rose Photo
Second Shooter + Drone | Brian Brose
Coordination + Styling | Aisle Ready Events
Ceremony Venue | Hoyt Arboretum
Caterer | Devils Food Catering
Florist | Song Bird Floristry
Hair and Makeup | NW Makeup and Hair
Dress | BHLDN
Shoes | Badgley Mischka Bridal
Suit | Indochino
Tie | Dazi USA