Liz and Mark’s Valentine’s Day Wedding at the Columbia Gorge Hotel in Hood River, Oregon

Liz contacted me in January wondering if I had availability just one month from when she called, and it happened to be on Valentine’s Day! My date was available, and plans were hatched to capture their big day at the Columbia Gorge Hotel and Spa. It’s one of those locations you always see in pictures or drive by and have wanted to go in and see. Now I had my chance!

Lately, I’ve been bringing in other photographers learning the art to help me out, especially at weddings where I know lighting will be needed, and it can be tricky setting it all up myself. So Lauren of Retro Sunshine Creative came along to help.

We started inside the hotel, where Liz was busy with her family getting ready.

When Liz was all ready and waiting to walk down the aisle, we headed down to the reception hall to capture the details for her and Mark to remember.

Outside, Mark was ready and greeting all the guests coming to find their seats, and of course, hanging with their sweet pooch. I can never say this enough, ALWAYS bring your pups to your big day!

There is a reason that the Columbia River Gorge has visitors from around the world, the views are gorgeous. But when you add a stunning bride, Mark really had the best views around.

A super sweet ceremony with their own written vows and a certificate signing in the middle, perfect for these two.

After the kiss and walk down the aisle, we had everyone stay at the alter for family pictures. It’s always harder to find everyone once the party gets started!

Remember, this is February in the Pacific Northwest, so all these fantastic people are braving the wind and the cold! Such champs for going through this in their wedding attire.

With the family and guests sent to enjoy cocktail hour, and the sun starting to set, we broke out the lighting for some DRAMATIC portraits incorporating the hotel’s landscaping and lights. This was actually the last night they were going to have their holiday lights still up.

Back inside the Columbia River Gorge Hotel , the cocktail hour was going on with a full bar and live music, right inside the hotel lobby.

Everyone was mingling, listening to the live band, and just having a great time. We then brought the party downstairs for toasts, dinner and dancing.

Congratulations to Mark and Liz!