Black Pearl On The Columbia Wedding

Ashley and Michael exchanged vows with the Columbia River as their backdrop, and The Black Pearl was the perfect event space to invite the sunshine and river views into the indoors. Their closest friends supported them as bridesmaids and groomsmen, and Ashley and Michael’s vows made everyone realize just how much these two cherish one another.

They had to cancel their wedding twice due to covid and restrictions, so much of the pressures and anxieties were eased once their wedding day arrived. They were able to focus more on celebration, rather than all the little details. Since they had so many setbacks while planning their wedding, they were able to understand what TRULY mattered to them: time with friends and family.

Ashley and Michael are a beautiful couple, but when you get to know them, you find that their hearts are even more beautiful. How can that be possible, right? Ashley works diligently as a nurse for young children and women, and Michael has supported important youth non-profits throughout his life. They care so much about other people, and when you meet them, you immediately understand why they have such an amazing community. They emit and attract so much goodness.

A little about the vendors! The Black Pearl is an industrious space that utilizes natural light to bring the outdoors to a comfortable indoor space. With the ever-changing season in the Pacific Northwest, I LOVE the idea of an indoor venue that allows people to still experience sunlight. The Black Pearl also has a great flow when it comes to events— guests head to the outside patio for a cocktail hour while the main space is being flipped, and it allows the opportunity for people to get up and move around and enjoy views of the Columbia River. I love this venue.

To help with the day, Jodie from Aisle Ready Events was on hand to coordinate and direct. It’s almost impossible to have a 200-person event without a wedding planner and coordinator, and Jodie did an amazing job.

Ashley and Micahel wanted to stick with timeless details and florals, and Kathy Farmer with Golden Pear Floral Design created bouquets of long stemmed white florals, and the combination of white flowers with whimsical greenery at the reception space was the true definition of simple elegance.

Ashley’s classic dress was from Ania Bridal, and Michael’s suit was from Macy’s. Again, loved the simplicity and timelessness of their outfits! Banquette Bakery designed and made their wedding cake, and Paradox Productions got the dance party jumping during the recession!

Truly loved everything about this wedding, and what I loved most was getting to know the community that has supported Ashley and Michael from the very beginning. Such an amazing group of folks.