Vancouver, WA Wedding Photographer | Sunset Falls Wedding with Mariessa and Sean

When Mariessa told me she was getting married out by Sunset Falls out in Yacolt, WA I got super excited. Growing up going to that area with my friends to go swimming, hiking, and camping, and I currently live a very short ways away.

I put the address into my GPS and headed into the great dark area. It’s referred to a dark area because there is no phone service there and the GPS services kinda, sorta know their way out there.

The address it brought me to was a cliff, with no access. I stopped and freaked out for a second, and then remembered that there is this private gravel road on the other side of the river, I just have to drive through the state park to get to it. BINGO! It was on the other side at a private residence that had an AMAZING venue. Little cabins tucked into the woods with private access down to the Lewis River and its own little swimming hole.

Entering the property, I walked over a handmade bridge, groomed landscape, and a super cute garden with a custom-made metal peacock gate.

Mariessa was in one of the many buildings spread out through the property. It was more like a converted barn that had its own bar and kitchen inside. Her brother was styling her and they were having way too much fun together. I don’t think I saw Mariessa lose her smile once throughout the day.

In the main area of the barn, her Mother helped her with her hair and then slip into her dress. Lots of sweet tears.

I snuck out with her dress right before she got it on to get some shots. I loved the gate too much so I had to put it up there with the glasswork peacock.

The ceremony was held in the open meadow on the property. Mariessa and Sean built an entry wall that held their childhood pictures and framed their ceremony spot perfectly.

I snuck up front to be sure to capture Sean’s first glance at Mariessa. I LOVE seeing the reactions, and of course, the fighting off of the tears.

They also did a traditional handfast ceremony and made sure to have some sweet words tied into their vows.

Having her brothers as Bridesmen was great as well. I really enjoy seeing the inclusion of brothers on the bride’s side and sisters on the groom’s side. It works well for friends as well.

Of course, with fun and amazing people, we get fun and amazing portraits. I loved that they all had fun. Of course, we had to include their adorable pup Flynn. I’ve always loved Irish Wolfhounds, and this guy was

The reception had long decorated tables and dancing in the barn! Plus lots of beer and a bonfire to wrap up the night. The cool thing about this venue is that they had cabins and tent sites on the property. The party went on waaaaay past after I left.

I hope these two have the BEST happily ever after. But knowing their love of all things nerdy like me, I know they will.