Dana & Mike | Summer Wedding at the Riverview Restaurant Waterfall Estate

Dana & Mike’s beautiful and very hot summer wedding took place at the Riverview Restaurant Waterfall Estate in the Gorge. This wedding was one that I was really looking forward to photographing and it was the first of several summer weddings. I first met Dana & Mike in January, on a very rare mild January day for their engagement session. We had such a great time in the Columbia River Gorge getting to know each other. I knew this wedding was going to be so much fun! Dana & Mike were married in July and oh my, it was a hot day for sure! Luckily, the Waterfall Estate had plenty of shade. It truly is a beautiful venue. Their wedding day was filled with love, excitement and so much dancing! I am so happy for this loving and fun couple!

Getting Ready | Portland Wedding Photographer

Dana and her bridesmaids started getting ready early in the morning. They all looked so beautiful in their floral robes. Dana was glowing and looked absolutely stunning. She wore a dress by Stella York that she found at the lovely bridal shop, The White Dress. Dana & Mike exchanged gifts before their first look and it was so sweet. The guys got ready in a separate area. My favorite part of the guys getting ready is always watching them attempt to tie their ties!

First Look | Portland Wedding Photographer

For Dana & Mike’s First Look, we choose the spot by the waterfall. This time of year the waterfall was more of a trickle, but it was still beautiful. There was also a beautiful ivy wall. Dana & Mike chose to read handwritten vows at this time, in a much more intimate setting. I love this idea and it was so special to be a part of this moment.

Wedding Party | Portland Wedding Photographer

After their First Look we joined the wedding party for photos. We found a nice area in the shade. Some of the ideas for photos were so funny. This was definitely a fun group of friends and family! I love the colors they selected, perfect for a summer wedding.

Ceremony | Portland Wedding Photographer

Dana & Mike’s ceremony took place out on the large green lawn, surrounded by tall beautiful trees. The flowers on the arch and wine barrels were so lovely. Florals by Barb did a wonderful job with the flowers. Dana’s bouquet was so gorgeous!

Cocktail Hour | Portland Wedding Photographer

Right after the ceremony we took some family photo and Dana and Mike got to enjoy a few moments together, just the two of them. And there was chicken on a stick, which both raved about! Everyone enjoyed mingling in the shade of the garden.

Reception | Portland Wedding Photographer

The reception took place inside. There was a wonderful dinner served, cake cutting and drinks. The speeches were so funny and also so touching. I always love listening to the speeches. Dana and Mike really practiced their first dance and it was so great! After the usual wedding events, it was time to party. They danced and danced the night away. It was the perfect evening of celebration!