The couple has spent most of their summer weekends in the Gorge for the past 10 years — windsurfing, biking, hiking and enjoying the breweries, wineries and restaurants in the area. “It’s one of our favorite locations on earth,” Chelsea said. They got engaged in the Gorge and immediately knew they wanted to get married here, too. “Besides the significant spot the Gorge holds in our hearts,” she added, “how can you beat the backdrop? The Columbia River, surrounding hillsides and Mount Hood — it doesn’t get much better.”
Occupations: Chelsea is an interior designer; Chris is a portfolio manager at a
Seattle-based investment firm
How they met: During freshman year at the University of Washington
How they got engaged: On top of Rowena Crest in the eastern Gorge while on a bike ride
Number of guests: 285
Favorite detail: Chelsea and Chris saved about 75 wine bottles, cleaned off the
labels and hung them from the branches of the tree they got married under, placing white flowers in each bottle. “We thought it gave the ceremony a unique and whimsical backdrop,” Chelsea said. Another favorite detail were four-foot-tall “C&C” metal letters fabricated and powder coated by Chelsea’s cousin, and installed and up-lit on top of a shed which could be seen from all around the wedding venue. “PARTY” marquee letters also hung from the ceiling of the tent, and the lights on the letters were synced with the beat of the music. “That really set the tone for the reception,” Chelsea said. “We wanted everyone to let loose, dance and party all night long!”
Unexpected moment: The officiant (who was the groom’s uncle) arranged for family and friends to surprise the couple by standing up during the ceremony and offering marriage advice. “It was a mix of grandparents, family friends and college friends,” Chelsea said. “Some were serious and heartfelt while others were hilarious. It was such a fun and unexpected surprise!”
Advice for other couples: “Focus on your partner, family and friends,” Chelsea said.
“If anything goes wrong, let it be. No one else will notice. Your wedding day will
likely be the one event in your life where you are surrounded by all the people you love. It would be a shame to waste that moment stressing about little things that
don’t matter in the big scheme of things.”
The day, in a sentence: “The best day ever!” said Chelsea.
Honeymoon: Europe — Barcelona, the south of France and Munich for Oktoberfest.
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