I’m a huge fan of the restaurant wedding reception (as evidenced by my own wedding), and this couple celebrated their nuptials with a happy hour at a favorite spot, followed by dinner at another. Also, the bridesmaids wore awesome glittery dresses…

Air plants appeared throughout the wedding: the bride’s bouquet, the groom’s boutonniere, ceremony decor. There were even tiny air plants in miniature glass terrariums marking each guests’ seat at dinner!

Why city hall? “We wanted an intimate, simple yet elegant wedding that epitomized us as a couple,” says Alison. “City Hall seemed so classic and simple. It reminded us of an old movie.”

Is this funky air plant bouquet a fun contrast to the bride’s romantic dress? Love it!

Guests enjoyed cocktails at one of the newlyweds’ favorite spots. Says the bride, “The happy hour at Clyde Common was casual and perfectly Portland.”

“We chose Ned Ludd for the reception because it’s the place we went on our first date, and it’s right down the street from our house. The food is fresh, local and always made with attention to detail. Jason French was a pleasure to work with. He crafted us a delicious menu, and he and his staff really took care of us and our wedding party.”

Signature drinks were a Seelbach for the bride (bourbon, Combier, bubbles, bitters), and a Moscow Mule for the groom (vodka, ginger beer, lime).

 

SEE THE FULL GALLERY FOR MORE OF THIS PORTLAND RESTAURANT WEDDING

 

What inspired you when you were planning your wedding?  We were inspired by air plants, our love for food and the city of Portland. We wanted our wedding to be classic, but also modern like we are.

What was your favorite moment or part of the day?  The ceremony. Saying my vows to him and hearing his vows to me in front of our best friends and most cherished family members. One of the very best moments of my life.

What was the best advice you received as a bride?  To stay present and absorb every moment together. I think it is really easy to get carried away when there is so much emotion and energy surrounding the day. My friend reminded me that the day is just about us (me and Chris), and to breathe it in and be present to all that is happening.

What advice do you have for other brides?  We went on our “honeymoon” to Kauai the week before the wedding, which in my opinion was the best idea ever. It allowed us to relax and take time to be together. When we got back (2 days before the wedding), all of our friends and family were here, and we were so elated and relaxed going into the day.

Do you have any budget tips for other brides?  We opted to keep our wedding super small. We wanted to spend the money we had to make it very elegant for our closest friends and family. It was hard to keep it to such a small number because we have such an extensive circle of community, but in the end, we are so glad we did. Decide what is important to you and spend the most money on those things.’

Is there anything else that helps tell the story of the day?  We chose to get married on April 29th because it was my parent’s 35th wedding anniversary. It was so wonderful honoring their love as we embark on this journey as husband and wife.

Photographer: Christy Cassano-Meyer / Ceremony Venue: Portland City Hall / Cocktail hour Clyde Common / Reception: Ned Ludd in Portland, Oregon / Dress: Sarah Seven / Headpiece: Twigs & Honey / Rings, Cufflinks: Andy Lifschutz / Tux, Shoes: Este's / Bridesmaid Dress: Revolve Clothing / Stationery: Paper Source / Floral Designer: Solabee Flowers & Botanicals / Music: Mr. Wu / Catering: Ned Ludd / Cake: Baker and Spice Bakery