It is such an honor to be invited to capture the most important day for two of my friends as they join their lives together. Kate and Eric’s Court House wedding was a perfect reflection of their relationship – full of love, easy going, and centered on what is most important. Their wedding celebration was quintessentially “Seattle” – everything that is so simple, yet so understandably lovable about this city.
The afternoon started as family and a few friends gathered at Kate and Eric’s place in West Seattle. Guests mingled as the last few flowers came together for Kate’s bouquet. All was calm with a celebratory aura.
We headed to the Alki waterfront for some photos before the ceremony. The springtime weather was uncharacteristically kind to Seattle that day. Among all of the cold and gloomy days leading up to, and following, their wedding day we all were so fortunate for clear skies. In an extra stroke of luck, the sun even decided to shine on us.
Kate and Eric made my job easy. They shared several beautiful moments and I think it is easy to tell from their photos just how happy they were to be getting married in a few short hours. We ventured along the shoreline, taking pictures and watching the boats pass. We paused for a moment at a spot that I particularly like – two trees stand apart yet their branches have grown together in a gorgeous canopy. I just love that symbolism. As a photographer, I love the image as well. The stark silhouette of the trees frame Kate and Eric beautifully, all with the Seattle city skyline beyond.
The ceremony took place at the Seattle Municipal Courthouse downtown. As an added treat the Judge allowed the ceremony to take place on the rooftop. Guests gathered close around Kate and Eric for their heartfelt nuptials. The Judge’s thoughtful and funny personality could not have been a better match for this fun-loving couple.
Following the ceremony the wedding party headed to Ballard to celebrate the newlyweds. The wedding party filled the Ballard Beer Company loft space. Several family members and friends gave mini toasts and well wishes to the new couple. It was fun to hear from so many different important people – each having a unique influence on shaping the new couples’ lives. Hearing multiple toasts is one of the greatest things about about smaller and more intimate weddings.
The day was beautiful and perfect. Not because that happened naturally, but because of how Kate and Eric decided to focus on the positive and exhibit such grace under pressure. The caterer didn’t show up, was difficult to reach, and ultimately was not able to provide food. Guests jumped into action. Cake was served first and beer glasses were filled. Before we knew it, pizza was ordered and tacos were being fetched from across the street. At the end of the day when things don’t go according to plan, all we can hope for is patience, sweetness in unexpected ways, and people around us who will go to any lengths possible to build us up.
Cheers to the new couple (and here’s to hoping that more weddings will serve both tacos and pizza)!
All Photos By Seattle & Destination Wedding Photographer Logan Westom
