Walking into Kathleen and Marc’s wedding felt like walking to a dream land - everything from the gorgeous venue to the details they chose was absolutely stunning. The couple flew in all the way from Texas to get married in Oregon — where they first met — and it couldn't have been a better decision! I say this at almost every wedding I shoot, but Bridal Veil Lakes in the Columbia River Gorge is undoubtedly one of my favorite wedding venues ever!

Why Choose Bridal Veil Lakes for your Wedding

Bridal Veil Lakes is the best of both worlds if you want to have a big wedding with all of your loved ones but still incorporate the nature of the PNW! It’s only about 45 minutes away from Portland, but completely immerses you into the most beautiful scenery the area has to offer. While it’s a little off grid, the potential to make it fit your vibe is incredible. It’s a blank slate!

Bridal Veil Lakes Photography Inspiration

This venue is a wedding photographer’s dream for so many reason! First and most importantly, every direction that you turn is gorgeous. Between the lake, flowers, and Columbia River Gorge views, it’s impossible to have a bad backdrop.

My favorite thing about Bridal Veil Lakes is the amount of shade that it offers from the sun! If you’re getting married in the summer, there are plenty of spots with beautiful even lighting and cool shade so you don’t overheat. If you’re getting married in the fall/winter, the trees offer protection from the rain!

For sunset, I highly recommend venturing off to the field next to the reception area! It gets hit with perfect golden hour light and has a stunning view of the river and mountains.

Best spots for photos at Bridal Veil Lakes

In my opinion the best spots for photos is the forest, the dock next to the ceremony area, and the open field with gorge views! You could even paddle in a boat on the lake or take photos hiking around.

Planning your Bridal Veil Lakes Wedding

Definitely reach out to a great planner who will help you navigate this venue! Since it’s off grid you’ll have to bring most things in, including bar vendors, catering, and rentals.

Book a photographer as soon as you can once you have a date, summer weekend dates tend to go fast! I would love to chat about you about photographing your Bridal Veil Lakes wedding :)

Tips from a Bridal Veil Lakes Wedding Photographer

My #1 tip - enjoy the day and be present! This venue is so serene. Try to do a lot of your photos before the ceremony so you can kick back, relax, enjoy cocktail hour with your guests, and maybe even paddle on the lake. Spending time at this venue will be an incredible memory to share with your loved ones.

Real Bridal Veil Lakes Wedding Story

Below are photos of Kathleen and Marc’s stunning wedding around the lake!

These two met in Portland when Marc was bartending and Kathleen went out on a limb and slipped him her number. From there their love blossomed, took them to a new state, and then all the way back to Oregon to tie the knot.

Their wedding was chic, elevated, and intentional. These two have such an eye for design and created an organic and unique day!

My favorite moment from their wedding was the dance floor at the end of the night when everyone partied with glitter cowboy hats. They took a little piece of their new home to the PNW!

How to Book a Bridal Veil Lakes Wedding Photographer

I would LOVE to work with you if you’re getting married at this stunning venue! I shoot a mixture of digital and film and have a documentary yet editorial style. My main goal is that my couples feel comfortable, stay present, and genuinely enjoy their wedding day (while getting stunning photos to be able to re-live it for a lifetime!)

Vendors:

Photography: Together Theory

Planning/Coordination: Infinity Northwest Event Planning

Florals: FieldWork Flowers

Content Creation: Your Bridal Content

DJ: Karl Kling

Catering: Moe’s Cuyahoga Falls

Event Rentals: Arden Collective

Hair stylist: Pascal Salon

Ceremony and Cocktail Hour music: Violin and Cello Duet

Bar Services: Adam Bergman