I met my fellow photographer and friend Martha a few years ago at a photography seminar. She is one of those instantly open and friendly people. The course focused on newborn/baby photography and we had a good time trying to replicate the poses with our purses and notebooks. Martha is an amazing photographer–I love her style! She recently began having her first tattoo inked and wanted to document the process. Yeah, self portraiture of your own arm just doesn’t really work… so she will be stopping by the studio before each session in Portland. I’m excited to see the next phase. Watch the evolution with me : )
Arm Art, Portrait Session, Olympia, WA
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As we talked, we found out we shared lots of mutual friends, that they knew my older son through the soccer shop, my younger son and nephew through choir, it just went on and on. It was one of those times where living in a smaller, connected community felt so right. I asked Shelby how she heard about me and her response was a little shrug, a smile and “just everybody”–I must confess I had my own little Sally Fields moment of “They like me! They really, really like me!” hahaha!! So thanks Shelby and Candice for making the start of my weekend so very smiley. And you know, I like you all right back!
She was worth the wait…
The had some of the funniest touches during their wedding. Guests were entertained before the ceremony with a multi-media show–a slideshow and mini movie that had people laughing one minute and tearing up the next. Well done!
There was a break in the sprinkling rain and we dashed outside to capture some autumn afternoon photos. 
The perfect amount of sun popped through to help make parasol magic.
And the fall colors soaked up every ray of sun and sent the glorious honey filled tones right back to me.
Jamie shared one of his favorite passages. Lovely to see such deeply spiritual people.
And one last moment with her Dad before heading down the aisle. Nothing but smiles…
Heading into the reception, we had to stop for a quick twirl : )
And the last shot of the night reveals the silly side. Danielle and Jamie kept the stoic expression despite the frivolity around them. Way to pull that shot off! Loved LOVED capturing your day. Can’t wait to see what the future holds for you two… xoxo Cortney
Matt’s childhood baby bonnet was tucked into Missy’s bouquet. 
And the Rock of Gilbrater, a family heirloom, found it’s place around Missy’s neck after spending some time with Moet & Chandon…
Missy’s Dad quickly teared up seeing her in the gown.
And family members were lovingly adorned with bursts of fall color.
Everyone needed just a smidge of lips…
And the nervous bride took a moment before heading out to the dock to see her groom.
Just a tiny bit happy…
And a tiny bit nervous…
And then a LOT happier…
Her God-daughter was the picture perfect flower girl. Those curls could possibly be illegally adorable.
And the groomsmen, well, they were ready with their “Fire Powah”
A dash of Charlie’s Angels.
And how often do you have Secret Service men as your groom attendants?
These tackle ball fans paid tribute with their cake. USC and WSU colors fit perfectly with the fall theme.
And an adorable harpist set the tone for cocktail hour by the water.
The night wore on and true colors began to emerge…a sense of humor is an absolute necessity when entering marriage. Can I get a HOLLA? Congrats Missy and Matt–enjoy California but you’ll be back… : ) xox Cortney
When planning an outdoor wedding in the Northwest, there is one gamble that looms large…the weather. Jeff and Kelly had a wonderful, intimate September wedding with close friends in their secluded slice of heaven, nestled in the forrest. 
Just one little tweak to their plan, rain. But as true Northwesterners, the rain was simply a well moisturizing addition to the fun of their celebration. 
Kelly walked shyly down the aisle as raindrops softly fell around her.
As she took her place next to her teary eyed groom, it was as if they were the only two people in the world. They did more than smile one another, they radiated love. 
It was such a sweet ceremony, with a quick retreat down the aisle guests made their way to the shelter of the tents, decorated in perfect fall fashion.
I was so glad we had the barn to setup the photo booth area. 
As the evening drew to a close, Jeff serenaded his lovely bride, all as the rain continued to softly fall. Congratulations Kelly and Jeff! Thanks for allowing me to capture the sweetness… xoxo
Yay for a sunny, Fourth of July weekend!! — Especially since Ashlee and Wes ventured all the way down from Bellingham for their engagement session. I love the low angled summertime sun… I probably should have been carting around my ladder though–I think collectively they were close to 13 feet tall! 
We wandered along a deserted field, just as the sun was peeking out. Now if it will just hold through tomorrow evening and Lana and David’s wedding, we’ll be golden, literally.
