Julia and Lorenzo’s Chic Rehearsal Dinner on Lake Union

The evening before Julia and Lorenzo’s wedding felt like such a perfect prelude to the weekend—a warm, elegant gathering right on the water at Daniel’s Broiler in Seattle. The restaurant’s Lake Union location is stunning, with panoramic harbor views and yachts drifting by as the sun starts to set. Everyone mingled on the patio with cocktails in hand, laughing as the sky shifted into soft pastels over the boats.

Julia looked incredible in a modern and playful outfit—her silky neck scarf and feather clutch were such standout details. Once the group headed inside, dinner and toasts carried an easy mix of emotion and excitement. Between stories and laughter, it was clear just how loved these two are.

We took a few portraits out along the docks before everyone sat down, the lake glimmering behind them and the city lights just starting to sparkle. Those quiet little moments between the bustle of conversation are some of my favorites to document—where the anticipation of the next day really shows.

Some of my favorite film frames from this night:

Rehearsal dinners have become one of my favorite parts of a wedding weekend to photograph. There’s something so special about the night before the wedding—it’s relaxed, intimate, and full of genuine connection. Everyone’s together, catching up, sharing stories, and celebrating without any pressure or timeline. For me, it’s also a chance to get to know your closest people before the big day. By the time the wedding morning begins, your family and friends already recognize me, which helps everyone feel more at ease and allows the entire day to flow even more naturally.

For my couples, having photos from both nights creates a more complete story—showing not just the wedding day itself, but the heartfelt moments that led up to it. The laughter over dinner, the hugs on the patio, the anticipation in the air—all those little details become part of the bigger picture of your celebration.