Mackenzie and Ryan’s Colorful Summer Wedding at The Griffin House
If I could bottle up the joy of Mackenzie and Ryan’s August wedding at The Griffin House, I would. This was easily one of my favorite celebrations of the year—modern, bold, colorful, and full of the kind of personality that makes photographing weddings so fun. The Griffin House is one of my favorite venues in the Columbia River Gorge, and it was the perfect backdrop for a summer day filled with color, music, and so many thoughtful details. Hosted By planned everything seamlessly, and Noble Floral Co. absolutely transformed the space with vibrant, playful arrangements that felt like an Italian summer dream.
From the start, the vibe was set: bold illustrated stripes on their signage and menus, cocktail displays overflowing with flowers, and pops of color everywhere you turned. It felt chic yet inviting—playful in all the best ways. The bridesmaids carried the palette forward in an eclectic mix of lilac, green, yellow, and floral prints, with a variety of fabrics like silk, chiffon, and satin that made the lineup feel modern and effortless. It’s safe to say colorful bridesmaid dresses might be my new obsession.
One of the things that made this day so special for me was the way we documented it—on digital, 35mm film, medium format film, Polaroids, and even Super 8 motion film. Film always brings out the richness of color and texture, which was perfect for this vibrant palette. The Polaroids gave the day that instant, nostalgic touch, almost like little keepsakes frozen in time. And the Super 8 film my husband shot added the dreamiest movement to the story—it’s cinematic, grainy, and brimming with energy in a way that feels straight out of a vintage summer home movie. Together, the mix of formats created a gallery that feels layered and timeless, just like Mackenzie and Ryan’s wedding itself.
Mackenzie walked down the aisle in a gown that was nothing short of iconic. Instead of a veil, she wore a dramatic cape that floated behind her in the breeze—a fashion statement that fit perfectly with the rest of the wedding’s modern edge. Her look brought just the right amount of drama and romance to the day, and on film it had this ethereal quality that still gives me chills.
Some of my favorite film frames from their wedding:
(More of their film scans are included in the post, these are just some of my favorites!)
The reception design was a showstopper. Guests were welcomed to tables with green and white textured linens, and the mix of prints and patterns added dimension and fun to the space. Printed linens are quickly becoming one of my favorite wedding trends—they add such personality to a reception. And just when everyone thought the design couldn’t get any better, Noble Floral Co. revealed the floral disco ball installation, which quickly became the centerpiece of the dance floor. Capturing it on Super 8 was pure magic—the disco ball sparkle, the flowers swaying, the band playing—it all came alive in the most nostalgic, cinematic way.
The party didn’t stop there—Mackenzie and Ryan surprised their guests with a choreographed dance, and the energy was electric. A live band kept the reception going late into the night, with everyone on their feet soaking in the music, laughter, and sparkling lights. Between the digital images, Polaroids being passed around, and Super 8 clips of everyone letting loose, the story of the reception feels as joyful as it was in the moment.
Everything about this day felt intentional yet carefree, elevated yet approachable. From the Italian-inspired bar menus to the joyful color palette to the playful, modern touches woven through every detail, Mackenzie and Ryan created a wedding that felt uniquely theirs.
If you’re planning a wedding at The Griffin House and dreaming of something colorful, bold, and full of life, I’d love to be the one to document it. My favorite way to capture a celebration is through a mix of formats—film, Polaroids, Super 8, and digital—so that every emotion, design detail, and unscripted moment is preserved in a way that feels cinematic and timeless. Weddings like this are why I do what I do.
Vendors
planning + design: @hostedby.co
photo / super 8: @madelinerosephoto @brianbrose
venue: @thegriffinhouse
stationer: @broganscottstudio
florals: @noblefloralco
beauty: @oliviameredithgroup
catering/bar: @cravecatering
cake: @dreamcakespnw
entertainment: @dancehall_days @thefotobus.co
