If you’ve ever been to Old Town Newport on the Oregon Coast, you may have noticed a rather massive building sitting on the North bluff, overlooking Yaquina Bay. For years I wondered what it was as it sat empty–adding to it’s mystery–and in disrepair. Once the Historical Society took it over, it became the beautifully restored home of the Pacific Maritime Heritage Center and the perfect venue for Amalia and Lauren’s wedding celebration.
Like so many of the LGBT weddings I have attended, Amalia and Lauren’s wedding (reception) day was living proof that love is love. Their guests were there because they believe in the power of good love story. And the celebration was about love always winning–especially for Amalia and Lauren.
Amalia and Lauren’s day at the Pacific Maritime Heritage Center was really a celebration of the vows they made to each other weeks earlier in Europe. This sweet, adventurous couple decided to elope in Europe, but that is where the “tradition” ended. The couple extended their vows over multiple scenic and heritage sites.
While they chose to keep their actual ceremony private, the couple did a wonderful job sharing the day with guests through photos. A slide show ran continuously during the reception sharing their European adventures and telling their wedding story through photographs.
Apart from the ceremony, Amalia and Lauren’s celebration in Newport was truly a wonderful wedding day. Guests enjoyed the couple’s personal touches–from a guest book quilt to a prop-filled photo booth. There was dancing and plenty of wonderful food and drinks to nosh on. Signature cocktail recipe cards were available and guests enjoyed a selection of local microbrews made just across the bay from the venue. The couple even decided to forego the traditional wedding cake in exchange for macarons and artisan chocolates.
As if Amalia and Lauren’s day wasn’t perfect enough, the couple and their guests were treated to a gorgeous sunset over the bay with the Yaquina Bay Bridge in silhouette. There was also a full moon to light the way as everyone celebrated into the night.
