Secluded on Bainbridge Island and harmonized with its surrounding 10 acres of pristine woodland, sits Ashton Woods Retreat. How Elizabeth and Mike came to find Christopher and Steven’s aesthetic creation is a great story in itself though we won’t go into detail here. Why? The better story is how perfect their wedding turned out to be as a result of it. As photographers, easy and fun subjects, copious backgrounds, diffused lighting and when you need it, a clear setting to capture the couple against greenery and sunset was at our beck and call. We couldn’t ask for anything better. And neither would Elizabeth’s and Mike’s families and guests as the warm, gentle evening rolled through.

As perfection goes, nothing about this celebration was usual but everything fit. Sean Patrick O’Reilly led the ceremony – meandering masterfully through the couple’s lives and love for each other. He kept it special and created opportunities for everyone to participate. Lisa Dupar Catering expertly prepared on-site and served a scrumptious meal, in 5 courses, perfectly matching the elegant wines chosen by the couple. We’ve had the pleasure of working with them before and though we consider them creme de la creme, their effort this evening was exemplary! Best of all, was Ashton Wood’s stately manor and attention to EVERY detail from the cadre of golden retriever’s tail-wagging greeting, to flowers and candles everywhere, and to the roaring bonfire ending with champagne and dessert. LOVE, perfection and beauty abound!

Just a quick Blog entry to say that I had lunch recently at the Pomegranate Bistro in Redmond and was very impressed!  It’s a great space to spend the lunch hour in and they serve inspired food.  It seemed to me to embody the perfection and style of France combined with the comfort of the Northwest.  As you’re sitting in the dining area you notice the giant windows that allow you to view the catering kitchen of Lisa Dupar Catering (she owns both the bistro and catering company.)  I was familiar with the name as a caterer of weddings in the area.  After eating in the bistro I can only imagine the food her company would serve at a wedding and the classy style they’d serve it with!