The other type of photos with regards to BRANDING photos is photos of my clients products and/ or them 'doing something'...walking, using their laptop, holding a mug, talking on the phone, interacting with another person.  Things that represent what they do AND draw out their personality.  

We aren't always smiling, SOMETIMES we are thinking, or writing, or brainstorming, or maybe truly laughing, and capturing those expressions as well as the typical headshot (looking and smiling at the camera, cropped in, half body, which are great for social media profile photos) is KEY!!

I provide variety for my clients so they have options for social media posts as well as any marketing material they may need photos for.  Even if it's just photos of accessories that can represent a part of what they do or coincide with a post to make their online conversations more relatable.

If you need a BRANDING session let me know...happy to help strategize and figure out the best way to approach it!

Local Insider

1. Freeze time.

2. Children change every year...why not document it?

3. Captures moments of impact aka LIFE!

4. They can make wonderful holiday gifts.

5. Decorate your house with YOU.

6. If you don't have kids/ make it a date / dress up and end up with some photos that remind you of your connection.

7. Bring a game or a picnic / make it fun (even if it is a bit chaotic to prep for).

I realize it can be chaos preparing for a family photoshoot...what to wear?  What time of day?  Where will we do the photos?

I am here to help!! 

*Coordinate outfits but you DO NOT have to match!!

*Let kids have a say in what they wear.

*Layers, textures, patterns and colors work well!  Vests, fur, lace, jeans...all great ideas!

*Based on the time of year and the weather we can figure out an approximate time to shoot and decide specifically closer to the day!

*Location will depend on the type of 'look' you want.  Urban vs nature...grass, trees, river, lake, city rooftop, age of children and busy-ness of possible locations!

*Have fun...make it an outing and enjoy each other...the BEST photos come when you allow yourselves to SIMPLY enjoy the in between moments!

I am always up for a conversation so let's chat!

In a world with hundreds of images flying at us every minute of everyday...telling us what we should look like, feel like, buy, sell and BE.  I love that I get to photograph women who embrace themselves right where they are at.  Some young, some older, some just starting life with a special someone, and some having been through a lot just to be at this point!  Some bodies will grow babies and some have the evidence of the amazing ability our bodies have to be incredibly elastic with beautiful 'road maps' to prove it!

As a mother of two girls I am desperately trying to teach them how to love themselves.  No matter how they look, how can they embrace their differences? AND choose to be thankful for those differences!!  To show their inner beauty through outward confidence.  It is something I struggle with myself but as long as we are talking about it and moving into it every day I think it's in the little things we do for ourselves that will help us get closer to that!!

And to the question - do I photograph boudoir...Yes I DO... but most of all I photograph the beauty of the journey of life.  Is there a better time than now?

With new smartphones coming out everyday, each with a new camera or features or filters more amazing than the last seems reasonable to just have a friend snap a few shots at your wedding and save a bunch of money right!?

DON'T DO IT!

Having been a professional photographer now for almost 9 years I will tell you I have done so many 'Anniversary' sessions trying to recreate what they didn't get on their wedding day and although beautiful and I LOVE those sessions...it is not the same as the wedding day itself!

1. You want your friends and family to attend and enjoy your wedding not be 'working'.  Just because someone owns a 'good' camera doesn't mean they know how to manage a timeline, coordinate groups of people and document the most important day of your life.

2. It isn't about me...it IS about YOU and YOUR experience and YOUR connection, and my job to catch and unveil the moments that convey the connection between you and your love.?  AND... have FUN!!!???

3. A professional is an investment, it's not just a steep pricetag, especially for what they bring to the table.  

• Time spent talking you through the process and how a day flows.
• Experience managing and keeping a timeline
• Guiding and coordinating groups of people 
• Gear- doesn't have to be the best but to know what to use when and how to use it
• Insurance
• Follow up and follow through
• Customer service

All of these things to be considered and not taken lightly.

4. Having back up gear if something goes wrong, not to mention a second photographer with them.

5. You get your photos back in a reasonable timeframe.  I find it disappointing when I hear that they only got a handful of photos or it has been a year and they still haven't seen their wedding day gallery (if there is a gallery).  Additionally being able to provide you with heirloom items such as albums etc.

BONUS::  You will not be able to handle how gorgeous your wedding looks and how thankful you will be to have these memories...HIRE a professional!

    aka ME!!

She has a podcast and an e book and many more projects in the works...look her up...

You can find her on instagram @markiewilliams and on facebook.

Their story, their day, them as people both individuals and together...PERFECT...INSPIRING...and the SPARKLIEST!!! 

You will want to see their full day here...

See more of their wedding here...

We met at Richmond Saltwater Park near Seattle and enjoyed a beautiful overcast evening.  I love when it's overcast in the PNW as it allows us to use all angles and 360 degrees of options for background scenery.   It did not disappoint!!   And Kamya in her long white maxi dress was effortless!

They made it a date night (just with paparazzi) and enjoyed some down time from their busy work schedules...

1.  To have memories of this time of life and the area they are from.

2.  They make fabulous gifts and can use for senior invitations.

3.  To feel beautiful (mainly the girls), but what guy doesn't want to have some cool photos!?

4.  To show their variety of expressions and style during a big life change.

5.  They need a yearbook photo and can make for professional headshots as they enter the workforce.

6.  To reward themselves and have some fun!

2020 Senior bookings are happening...click on the video to see a few samples and email me to book!
2020 SENIORS

VENDORS::

HMU::  Yessie Libby

Florals::  Juliet & Lou

Dress:: BHLDN

Veil:: For the Luv of Bridal

Tux:: The Black Tux

Photographer::  Arlene Chambers //Seattle Wedding Photographer

Sarah and Caleb knew they wanted a snow wedding…it was just something she had always wanted!  So what better place than Mountain Springs Lodge!  Everyone was an amazing sport about the frigid weather as we did photos outside including the ceremony.  With her 7 nephews and 1 niece joining in the fun (I call running around in circles with random kids crying fun) it all turned out perfect!

Click on any photo below to see more of this gorgeous wedding...

VENDORS::

Venue::  Mountain Springs Lodge

Wedding Coordinator::  Andrea, Mountain Springs Lodge

Florals::  Alexa Johnson, Family friend

Sweets Table & Cake::  Simply Sweet Cupcakes

Dress:: The Dress Theory,  Pronovias

Bridesmaids Dresses::  BHLDN by Anthropologie

DJ::  JMG Entertainment, Jed Gossman

Videography:: Best Made Videos

Caterer::  Mountain Springs Lodge

Boots::  Hunter Boots

Shoes::  Badgley Mischka

Seniors...guys/girls...bring your energy, bring your friends, play some music, wear outfits that you maybe wouldn't normally wear and see yourself in a new light as you enter adult-hood but still with a year of non-adult responsibility!

LADIES- do it, get it, bring it, strut it, unleash your inner sexy self...and let's show off your goods!  Gosh -one day you will be 80 and want to show those grandkids, or other ladies (or men) in the nursing home what you used to look like!

Families look different for everyone.  Sometimes they are big, sometimes they are small, sometimes they include pets, sometimes they are blended, sometimes there are wounds that need healing...no matter what they all include love and the desire for connection.  Often times family photos (or prepping for them) is stressful.  Selecting outfits (and no you don't have to all match), keeping attitudes in check, rushing to get out the door when all of a sudden someone spills something or has to go to the bathroom.  Then you have the weather and everyone NOT smiling at the camera when told to. 

Well even though all of those things happen the goal is to not to only aim for the 8x10 glossy image of perfection for your wall or Christmas card, but to enjoy a bit of time together and love on each other.  To interact with your kids and remember the things you love about them.  This is not the time to be the strict parent and teach them a lesson (I say that to myself as I write this).  I fall into the trap too, of wanting them to 'BEHAVE' as they should...maybe they would if we just let them 'BE' ...meanwhile I swirl around you zooming in and out of the moments that are happening.  Of course I always try to get people to laugh and even once in a while look at the camera but truthfully life happens in these in between times and isn't that what you want to remember?  Even if it means a tantrum or a snot bubble, but what if it could mean that toofy smile, or the cutest nose crinkle?...that's real life and having a variety of memories after a session is my goal.   Perfectly imperfect...

An alternative to a typical photobooth...
It's a HASHTAG based printer software
Great for parties or an "add-on" to a wedding pkg!!!

Inquire for more details and availability...
 

I photograph both in my in-home area as well as my clients home.  It's best if we talk about lighting and how your home is setup to make sure it works but I will say sometimes it's nice to come into your environment and let you all just 'be'.  And other times, it's nice to get out and bring the excitement to me.  We chat, figure out clothing and the different looks we can potentially do and how a session will flow.

Their big windows allowed the sunshine to stream in and made for a light airy feel!  Letting the kids jump and run freely (with a bit of random containment) was refreshing!

Info::

Venue:: Heritage Hall Kirkland, WA
Coordinator:: EVENTful Moments - Jessica Campbell Jess Bartleson
DJ:: Otto-Matic Mobile Music 
Caterer:: Redmond's Bar and Grill
Cake Artist:: Paul Massey
MUA:: Timaree Rae 
Shana Rogers - Bridal bouquets
Carly Linger & Monica Linger Venue Flowers
Rentals:: CORT Party Rental
Hair:: Kristin Rahm 

Photographer: Arlene Chambers Photography/ Seattle Wedding Photographer

Seattle Wedding Photographer

2nd Photographer: Brooks Scribner

They had waited for what seemed like forever for each other…and now for this day. So many life changes happened quickly for these two and finding each other was definitely the icing on the cake. Tom looks at Darcy with an endearing smile and she returns it promptly. They make each other laugh and have a quiet, tender love. 
They don’t have to say much to say a lot to each other. As we walked around the venue, Tom would ever so gently guide Darcy at the small of her back ensuring she was ok in her heels and not too hot. It’s really in the little things. And these two make it work.

With Darcy losing her dad just a few months ago, her mom walked her down the aisle.  There were some emotional moments during the day remembering her dad and I feel giving acknowledgment helps even if it means a few tears.  Darcy is super close with her mom and sister and their bond is evident. 

Tom's good friend officiated the ceremony which made it that much more special.  It was a quaint group of friends that celebrated these two and so much sincerity and love for them.  During the toasts Molly praised Darcy for her dancing skills as well as her loyal lifetime friendship.  Life is about these connections and hearing their toasts celebrate and welcome these two and their 'togetherness' is inspiring.


I feel blessed to know these two and witness their love. Everyone supports them emphatically and could not stop talking about how special they are as a couple.
They are off to Italy for their honeymoon and I am sure enjoying tons of bread and wine…
Much love to you two…

Click here to view their full story... 

Info::

Venue::  DeLille Cellars
Caterer::  A Platinum Event
Wedding Coordinator:: Kristen Molina / A Platinum Event
Florist::  Julie Borrud/ Bella Rugosa
Cake Artist:: Dessert Works
DJ::  Branden Landon
Wedding Gown::  La Belle Elaine’s Bridal Dress Shop
Shoes:: Badgley Mischka
Hair::  Becky Tripicchio
Makeup:: Shannon Mercil
Bridesmaids Gowns::  Vera Wang/ David’s Bridal
Suits::  Macy’s
Officiant:: Jake Snider
Photography:: Arlene Chambers Photography / Seattle Wedding Photographer

Seattle Wedding Photographer
2nd Photographer:: Brooks Scribner

He may not love that she is notoriously late, but he sure loves her.  She may not love that he burnt  overcooked their meal on their second date, but she sure loves him.  It was and is evident these two have the giddy kind of love.  The one where she glances at him and reaches for her hand to kiss it.  Where genuine affection is pure and true love exists no matter what life throws their way!  
Whitlee’s design was inspired by her love for the peaceful smell of lavender and  with wheat as a reminder of her grandma it was a no brainer for J9Bing Floral & Event Planning to combine the two.  With the Newcastle club having a few areas with some purple ‘ish’ flowers (sorry names escape me as I am no horticulturist) it felt natural to make them part of their portrait backdrop.
Billy’s sister was a bit concerned about Billy’s vows as he is not much of a story writer but let me tell you Billy knocked it out of the park.  With memories and stories and expressions of the quirky things he loves about Whitlee – it was a tear jerker.  Equally as emotional were Whitlee’s vows.  This girl has some facial expressions, from crying to laughing she let it all out and had the guests reaching for tissue.
With one entertaining DJ Tim Humphrey they danced into the night and left to some crazy sparklers (but maybe that was just around my head)??
This couple is authentic…that’s the best word for them.  Laid back in their own right but they love each other fiercely.  They have family support that is strong and I know they are going to make it…and with a honeymoon in Figi, what a fabulous way to start life as husband and wife.

Click here to view their full story...

Info::

Venue::  The Golf Club at Newcastle
Caterer::  Newcastle
Wedding Coordinator:: Janine / J9Bing
Florist::  Janine / J9Bing
Videographer:: Best Made Videos Reid Johnson

Cake Artist::  Jeannie Kehn
DJ::  Tim Humphrey / Ideal Entertainment
Hair:: Obadiah Hair Salon
Bridesmaids Gowns::  David’s Bridal
Suits::  Men’s Wearhouse
Officiant:: Don Kersey
Photography:: Arlene Chambers Photography / Seattle Wedding Photographer

Seattle Wedding Photographer
2nd Photographer:: Dan’yelle McNeely

They met at UW…and it didn’t take long for them to fall in love. Becoming the best of friends, Jordan has been patiently waiting for this day…and now she is Mrs. Garbe.
Hidden Meadows seems to always have the perfect weather and combined with  a stellar team of vendors makes for a seemless day!! 
EVENTful Moments definitely makes the day run smooth and does such an elegant job with whatever decor they design.  And... they are such a fun team to work with. 
I love how passionately these two love, Jordan often throwing her arms around Bryce with no notice. Bryce embracing it all and once in a while checking Jordan out, in awe that he gets to marry her! 
Their families love and adore them and have given them the fullest of support.  They each have a bond with their mothers that is inspiring.  Jordan's mom is so free and open and I love her displays of affection for her daughter!  
They are the sweetest couple. They couldn’t stop saying Thank you to me…and really I should be thanking them. They trusted me whole heartedly with their day and it was, for lack of a better word, perfect!
During the ceremony they combined the UW colors in sand signifying their unity, as well as communion for commitment.   They sealed their love with a kiss and couldn't wait to enjoy the night with their guests!
After a night of dancing they left to a glow stick exit and a burn out (well not quite) in Bryce's dads 67 camero AND...with one last stop we ceased a moment in the night down the street in a cloud of smoke...
Congratulations Mr. & Mrs. Garbe...your honeymoon to Antigua awaits!! 

Click here to view their full story...

Info:: 

Venue::  Hidden Meadows
Caterer::  Wooden Spoon
Wedding Coordinator:: EVENTful Moments
Florist::  Flowers By Tiffany
Cake Artist::  Angie Oliver, friend
DJ::  Ottomatic Mobile Music- Otto
Signs::  Chalk Boss
Wedding Gown::  The White Dress, Portland
Shoes:: Betsy Johnson
Hair::  Angie Oliver
Makeup:: Delaney Nohavec
Bridesmaids Gowns::  David’s Bridal
Suits::  Men’s Wearhouse
Officiant:: Monty Wright, Snoqualmie Valley Alliance Church
Photography:: Arlene Chambers Photography / Seattle Wedding Photographer

Seattle & Snohomish Wedding Photographer
2nd Photographer:: Brooks Scribner

My mom yelling checking in on me, from the other room, 'Are you doing your hair AGAIN??  Why are you washing off your makeup?   Does it need to take you this long to get ready!?'  Well YESSS my 5 inch hair didn’t stand straight up on its own ya know…it took time.  It was ART!

Little did I realize this was all part of who God made me to be.  I am sure it was annoying and I am sure I took waaaaay too long to get dressed.  And trying new hair and makeup styles were challenging to understand, especially when my parents DID want to hang a school photo in the house and knew I may one day regret that huuuuuge, backcombed perm.

One day at a time, one phase at a time…I sit here 40 years old.  Having been a banker, a manager in an escrow office, immigrating to a new country, getting married, loving spicy food (ok that's a bonus tidbit) and now a mom of tweeners (gosh -I have now have other hair stories I can tell you)…I STILL love doing my hair, makeup and changing my outfit 3x a day…ok not everyday and somedays it may just be a variety of yoga pants!!  More importantly it has been such a treat to find such talented people in an ubiquitous field, that have shared their craft with me.  To see how they express their art and heck I love being a canvas! 

What once was an annoying habit has led me to seeing detail that others may not see.  And not in a critical  or comparing sort of way.  IN a way of embracing how different we all are.  Shapes, sizes, eye color, noses, birthmarks and let’s not forget personalities – YES these do come across in a photo! 

Being in front of the camera is such good perspective for me, to see what it's like on the other side!  To know ways I can make my clients more comfortable.  To study poses that work for different body types and get people to laugh and relax.  We don’t breathe enough, I mean we breathe but don’t BREATHE.  We rush through life forgetting to connect and enjoy.   

I am so grateful for those days of doing and RE-doing my wing eyeliner…and learning how to curl and crimp my hair…cause let me tell ya I am bringing sexy    I mean, crimping back…ok so it may look like you’re hair is fried but it adds a thickness that no ‘thickening’ shampoo could EVER do!

Those days of playing with different looks taught me to embrace my differences…and even though it may have taken me 40 years, I am sure I have  a lot to learn in my next 40 – yes I am only living till 80 cause  living to 100 seems daunting…just sayin’!

Cheers to dressing up, changing outfits, and having a hubs who is willing to endure and even have fun while doing it!  (And notice --HE too had an outfit change) :)

Thanks to ::

Timaree - Hair, Makeup and Personal Photos

Ryan Flynn Photography - Anniversary/ Couple Photos

Outfits::

Nordstrom - Free People, BP, Steve Madden, Nike

Zara - Leather coat

Laineemeg Bridal - Cream Tulle Skirt

Anthropologie - Hat

Floryday - Blue/White floral dress

Forever21 - Jewelry

Meeting at work several years ago has finally led to these two saying ‘I DO’ in front of an intimate group of family and friends. 
It was a quaint wedding at JM Cellars, without a wedding party but with Mike’s kids playing a super important role  and supporting them on their special day.  Piper, Mike’s daughter watched as Tameron got ready and you can tell she admires her.  She would peek around the corner of the bathroom as Tameron was putting on her final touches.  Karmichael  hung out with his dad playing pool with the guys, definitely enjoying some down time prior to ‘having’ to dress up!
When pulling out Mike & Tameron’s rings to photograph them I realized there were two engagement rings.  Chuckling Tameron explained that she just couldn’t decide,so why not have both.  Gosh, love her way of thinking!!
Mike is rather laid back…quiet and a very gentle spirit.  He has a way about him that of course made Tameron fall head over heels for him.
As they prepped for their first look, Jacky from Event Success beautifully coordinated all the décor for an outdoor reception.  Fena Flowers provided the florals that were simple, romantic and classic.  The place cards were so unique…I thought at first they could be a bookmark, but nope they were floral on the outside and had seeds on the inside so guests could take them home and plant them as a memory of the day.  So cute!!  It was hard to believe that the weather in the PNW turned straight out of ‘A Summer Night’s Dream’.  It was as if we had been transported to California for the day.
Tameron nervously awaited Mike to approach her for their first look.  Her hair was cascading down her shoulders and the sun so graciously smothered the trees.  Mike sauntered down the stairs only seeing her from the back (which is a view he doesn’t mind either)…but as she turned you could see relief in both of them…huge smiles and so relaxed and happy to embrace each other.
Of course we took advantage of different areas of the property and greeted guests who were arriving along the way.  Time sure does fly even when you have an evening ceremony.
Windsong Trio serenaded with orchestra music as Tameron was walked by Karmicheal down the aisle.  With quick and to the point nuptials inside the barrel room they said ‘I DO’, kissed and ran out with streamers flying as husband and wife.  Guests enjoyed the venues wine as well as tasty hors d’oevres by Kaspars Catering.   Cheese, meats and unique crackers filled the tables as family and friends mingled. 
As everyone enjoyed the meal along with cake from Midori Bakery, a few toasts and a casual  evening was shared by all. 
It was the perfect day for Tameron & Mike.   Finally married and soooo ready to leave for their Tahitian honeymoon.  

Click here to view the full story...

Info:: 

Venue:: JM Cellars
Coordinator::  Jacky @ Event Success
Florals:: Fena Flowers
Videographer:: Unified Cinematic 
Catering:: Kaspars Special Events & Catering
Music:: Windsong Classical Trio
Officiant:: Elaine
Hair & Makeup::  Kathy Evans Beauty Studios
CORT Party Rental
Vintage Ambiance
La Tavola Fine Linen
GreenLight Events
British Motor Coach
2nd Photographer:: Brooks Scribner Photography
Seattle Wedding Photographer:: Arlene Chambers

Ending up at Within Sodo for the ceremony and reception we were greeted by family eager to see these two tie the knot.  They chose to have an intimate, unplugged ceremony with no photos to be posted till later in the night.   You could almost hear the audience choke back tears as Elaine declared ‘It was always you’ in her vows.  It too caused me to pause letting her words soak in. 
 

 I kept hearing them say throughout the day ‘it’s just perfect, what a perfect day’…and hearing from them Sunday about how they were both in awe of how it all turned out (despite many days of worrying about the unpredictable Seattle weather)…it really did turn out FLAWLESS.  
Ending with  Dick's Drive In Restaurant Burgers was a huge treat and everyone LOVED them...I have never seen burgers devoured so fast...including Erik's 2 year old niece! 
 
You two are impeccable…enjoy PARIS…and a few million crepes for me! 

Click Here to view their full story...
 

Venue:: Within Sodo
Coordinator:: Jen Leslie Events
Florist::  Jen Leslie Events
Cake Artist::  Eat more Cake by Candice
Caterer::  Porkchop & Co.
Late Night Snack:: Dick’s Burgers
DJ::  DJ Malo, Danny
Wedding Gown::  BHLDN
Shoes:: Badgley Mischka
Suits:: Nordstrom
Calligraphy & Signs:: Chalk Boss
Stationary::  Minted
Jewelers:: Bony Levy The Mrs. Box
Makeup & Bridesmaids Hair:: Salon Maison
Hair Stylist:: Karen Reichert
Bridesmaids Dressess:: BHLDN
Officiant:: Margo Helgen
Rentals:: CORT Party Rental
              Vintage Ambiance
        Something Borrowed Portland
        Creative Bus
Photography:: Arlene Chambers Photography
2nd Photographer:: Brooks Scribner Photography
 

It started at the race track but not with gambling (they were far too young for that)…but with dirt bikes (flat track). Jacob had seen Brittany out of the corner of his eye while talking with her sister Kayla. He mustered up the courage to ask Kayla for her baby sister’s number…and…from then on Jacob realized he could multi-task as he was equally interested in Brittany as his racing…ok maybe more!
These two have been dating since high school and are inseparable. With Brittany hardly missing a race of Jacob’s and Jacob including her in all aspects of his life…they are best friends and absolutely enjoy the life they have created! With a shared love for their dogs and new additions…more bikes…they are sure to have an adventurous future.
I have had the pleasure of photographing aspects of this families life for years. I feel honored to have been asked to document this special day of Brittany & Jacobs, and although it wasn’t summer we could not have asked for a better day to celebrate! Brittany may disagree considering the goosebumps she had but of course I couldn’t complain!
Their wedding was held at Lord Hill Farms in Snohomish. Brittany wanted to have everything at one location and end with a big celebration with her friends. And…that’s what they had. 
Arriving at the venue ready to get dressed, she slipped into her graceful, glamorous, lace & tulle gown from Laineemeg Bridal. It draped her fit body impeccably, showing off her toned arms that she works hard at maintaining at Crossfit. With her sister, and best of friends helping her with the final touches she was ready to see Jacob.
Jacob, although not showing too much excitement outwardly was thrilled to finally get to see his bride.
She slowly approached her groom and Jacob, usually serious nature, was now beaming with a grin! They embraced and they were ready to get their day started. Together!
It was an incredible day for February in the PNW. The rain had subsided and the sun was even gracing us with its presence. They took some time to enjoy each other…savoring the moment, slowing down the pace of the day. Jacobs dad brought his restored, vintage truck so incorporating that into some photos was special.
They had a fabulous wedding party. Fun and flexible and easy going!! Although the sun had appeared it was still rather brisk. It was easy for me to think it was warm as I was dressed in a parka and the poor bridesmaids were in sleeveless dresses. Sporting their gowns from Hermosa bridal they hung in there and had chipper attitudes!
Ready to warm up they headed inside for the ceremony. It is always so meaningful when they choose an officiant that is a special friend as well. Their close friend Tyler performed the short but poignant service. Saying ‘I Do’ to forever and sealing it with a kiss they ran down the aisle as husband and wife.
Cocktail hour commenced and drinks and dinner were enjoyed by all. A few toasts followed with special words from almost everyone in the bridal party and both fathers. With both parents still being together it was particularly momentous to have their Dad’s toast some significant expressions of love to them. They have a lot of love and support around them with most saying ‘ABOUT TIME’ they tied the knot!
The cake was cut, the bouquet was fought over and the garter was thrown…it was time to dance. It didn’t take long for the crowd to get into the music. With the guests joining in to celebrate these two with a money dance…it added a lot of laughter and got people moving!! 
The ended their celebration running through a sea of light…Sparklers…you know those mini fire-works that you pray light up the sky and not someones outfit! Everyone cheered them on and their family and friends are excited for what lies ahead for them. As their get away truck left the parking lot I kept hearing happy sentiments for the couple! It’s encouraging and inspiring…and I wish them so much happiness.
You two are special…you have a unique kind of love. Marriage is beautiful and tough somedays but like one of your groomsmen said in his toast ‘Somehow we know you two are gonna make it’…Much love!!

Click here to view their full story...

Info::

Venue: Lord Hill Farms

Caterer: Lord Hill Farms

Florist: Costco

Cake Artist: Cupcake Couture Trish Mcknight

DJ: Ramon Villalovos

Wedding Gown: LaineeMeg Bridal

Shoes: TOMS

Suits: Men's Wearhouse

Hair & Makeup: Miranda McGuire

Meanwhile Jimi and his groomsmen were getting ready at a nearby hotel trying to relax, as a night of dancing was awaiting them.
Gabbie and her girls hopped on the party bus and headed to a park down the road to have her first look with Jimi.  She could hardly wait.  The day was here and as she reflected she was in awe!
We found a forest like spot at this park.  Jimi was amongst the trees and was anticipating Gabbie’s arrival.  He turned around and was enamored.  Her nerves finally calmed and their embrace was such a symbol of what they are to each other.  Peace.
The sun was shining…it may have been chilly but finding an open area with some pretty cascading light was more than I could have hoped.  They enjoyed some time together and endured the brisk weather.  The bridal party had such good attitudes and were full of fun banter! 
Gabbie was so graceful…her dress hung on her and gave the illusion that she was floating.  Jimi, poised and somewhat composed couldn’t stop smiling at her!!  It wasn’t long before we had to get to the church for the ceremony.  We made a brief stop at Sodo Park, where the reception was going to be, for a few other photos then we were off to the church.
It was a beautiful Catholic ceremony at St. George Church.  With an encouraging and loving liturgy spoken, communion was taken, vows were exchanged and they were pronounced Mr. & Mrs. Lewnes.
They ran down the aisle ready to sign their marriage certificate.  We quickly did some group family photos and then made our way to enjoy the reception party at Sodo Park. 
Sodo is a stunning warehouse.  Walking in, the tables had a simple yet elegant feel to them.  Stunning centerpieces and an overall romantic ambiance filled the room.  Gabbie had a vision to keep people entertained throughout the night (just in case they weren’t into dancing). 
First up was a Cigar bar…I mean with it not raining people being able to be outside in January (in Seattle) was a treat in itself.    The cookie table was full of decadent sweets to savor.  It was hard not to hover around that table all night.  
As dinner was about to start Gabbie & Jimi made their entrance and went straight into their first dance.   It was followed by Jimi’s dance with his mom and Gabbie’s special dance with her mom.  Let me tell you those two ladies can move!!  Much love and affection were expressed during the toasts with a few moments of tender emotion shared by all.  Words of affirmation and an excitement for their future was evident.   The cake was cut and dancing commenced!  This was surely a dancing crowd.  I am not sure Gabbie left the dance floor for more than a minute here and there.
The Gelato bar and Caricature artist both arrived offering more variety for the guests to enjoy.   The line for the gelato spoke for itself, as the scoops were generous and were full of delicious-ness (yes you bet I had some).  Gabbie wanted something different than a photobooth so that’s how she landed on the caricature artist idea.  They were so talented.  I have to say not only in their artistic ability but in their knowledge of peoples ancestry based on face shape and features. 
The crowd continued to dance of course working up an appetite so why not bring in….HAPPY MEALS…McDonald happy meals were delivered and people loved it!  Gabbie thought of everything.
Ending the night with a bang…or shall I say sparkle..they ran through the crowd as everyone congratulated them.  It was a seamless day and they couldn’t have been more ready for their honeymoon.
Congratulations you two. You are dynamic and definitely the makings of a power couple.  It’s lovely to see how much people love you and it was an honor to share in your day!