Dani and Travis | A Fairytale Wedding in the Woods.

Deep into the woods, in a land far, far away (Cathlamet), Dani and Travis tied the knot in front of a small group of friends and family. And then BURNED the house down on the dance floor!

After winding down a small road in the hills just north of the Columbia River Hwy, I parked my car in the middle of an unassuming field and walked into the woods.

What did I find? A gorgeously decorated table and Travis setting up his keg from his favorite local brewing, Ashtown. I knew this was going to be a great night.

Being that the weather was bizarre this year, they had put up a canopy just in case we got a stray rain shower. Luckily, all of the areas around us got rain, but the entire event stayed dry.

While Travis was setting up, Dani was getting ready in a nearby house. We met her in a grove of trees separate from where everyone else was.

I even rounded up the kids for some quick portraits before everything. With how much energy the little ones had now, I did not know how long it would last, man was I surprised. Their littlest girl can dance for HOURS. The little wooden deck that was out here was a perfect spot to gather everyone.

The ceremony site had log benches and two different arbors for them to choose from. Any direction had a gorgeous view of the trees. Just simple decorations of baby’s breath were needed as the area just spoke for itself.

With everyone gathered at the ceremony area, Travis and the officiant headed over and waited for the bride.

And wow, Travis’ face when he saw his stunning bride. The ceremony was simple with sweet vows and all of their children coming up with them.

One of the big questions I get asked before the wedding is, “how long are the formals going to take after the ceremony?” And that entirely depends on you and your family. While I do agree formals are essential, I also like to have a little fun while creating. I have yet to hear, “wow, the formal family portraits are always my favorite parts of the wedding.” So my goal is to make them as quick and painless as possible. And throw in some fun while we’re at it.

Luckily, Dani and Travis’ family are just like them, fun and relaxed. So rounding them up right after the ceremony and getting everyone in was a breeze.

If you follow me on social media, you’ll quickly realize that I am at home in the trees. Some have the beach and ocean, I have the mountain and forests. So when your wedding is surrounded by a place where I feel at home, we WILL create some magic. Especially if that elusive bright ball of light is in the sky.

Back at the reception, the party was getting started! Their DJ, Tony, was AMAZING. Not only playing great music, but he also mixed in some of his live acoustic music as well. Tony, I can’t find your information, so if you’re reading this, contact me, I have web pages to link and people to refer you to!