When Natalie from Bloom Culture extended an invitation to photograph a styled shoot at Gorge Crest Vineyards, I knew it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. Gorge Crest Vineyards, nestled in the heart of Washington’s breathtaking Columbia River Gorge, offers a panoramic view of Mount Hood that creates an idyllic backdrop for any wedding. This particular shoot promised to be something special, and it certainly did not disappoint.
Early Arrival and Behind the Scenes
I arrived at the venue a bit early to ensure I could capture the essence of the day from start to finish. The excitement in the room was palpable as vendors busily set up their contributions to the shoot. Gorge Crest Vineyards was already a sight to behold, but seeing it transform into a whimsical wedding scene was a real treat. I took advantage of the early hours to snap some behind-the-scenes shots, capturing the meticulous efforts that go into creating such a beautiful event.
The Dream Team of Vendors
The collaboration between vendors is always fascinating to witness, and this shoot was no exception. The colorful florals and candlesticks were artfully arranged, creating an elegant yet vibrant atmosphere. A highlight was the stunning, flower-adorned cake that seemed to flow like a river of blossoms. Each detail, down to the luxurious Jimmy Choo heels, was perfectly curated to add to the overall aesthetic.
Meet Our Models: Maria & Evan / Dylan & Caitlyn
Our models for the day, Maria and Evan, played the roles of bride and groom with grace and charm. Maria looked ethereal in a flowing veil adorned with pearls that danced in the gentle breeze. Evan complemented her perfectly, and together they brought the romantic vision to life. Their chemistry was undeniable, making every shot a testament to their connection.
Dylan & Caitlyn modeled for our proposal session, capturing a fairytale proposal in the vineyard, followed by some stunning portraits in the hammocks, and various spots around the property. Being newlyweds, their fresh love was shining through every shot.
Magic in the Vineyard
As the golden hour approached, we moved down to the vineyard, which offered a picturesque setting for the closing shots of the day. Maria and Evan enjoyed a moment of celebration, cutting into the beautifully decorated cake and popping a bottle of champagne. The setting sun cast a warm, golden glow over the scene, enhancing the romance and magic of the moment.
Final Thoughts
This styled shoot at Gorge Crest Vineyards was an unforgettable experience, made possible by the incredible collaboration of all the vendors involved. From the initial preparations to the final golden-hour shots, every moment was a perfect blend of creativity, beauty, and love. I am grateful to Natalie from Bloom Culture for inviting me to capture this enchanting day. It was a reminder of why I love wedding photography—each shoot is a unique story, and I am honored to tell them through my lens.
If you’re planning a wedding and looking for inspiration, or if you’re a vendor interested in collaborating on a styled shoot, I’d love to hear from you. Let’s create something magical together!
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Vendor Team-
Coordinators: Have and Hold Event Co / Venue: Gorge Crest Vineyards / Florals: Bloom Culture / Tablescape Rentals: Great Jones NW / Pedestal Rentals: Magnolia Rentals / Cake: Venus Cakery / Makeup Artist: Kelli Thomsen / Hair: Hairstyling by Tay / Stationary: Covenant Calligraphy / Bridal Models: Maria Duong & Evan Lindemann / Dylan Mavraedis & Caitlyn Corrigan
