1st Year: Paper

Traditional first year anniversary gifts are made of paper. No better a reminder of this fact than Portland Bride and Groom's latest issue (which happens to include our wedding in the "Real Weddings" section). We were ecstatic when family members brought in a copy to the cafe this past weekend and were forced to stash it away until the end of the day, when we could really take the time to to sit down and savor the details. Having an opportunity to revisit our day was cathartic and proved important in reconnecting us with the things we love most about each other, this city, and the people who inhabit it.

To be honest I felt gobsmacked (in a bad way) after our wedding. Coupled with a small remodel at the cafe, the timing of the two events overwhelmed, exhausted, and defeated me at times. Having the chance to go back, if only through the glossy pages of a magazine, allowed me to gain a new perspective and appreciation for not only the work that went in to making the event happen, but the reason behind it all, the thing that's always behind everything that pieces my world together: US.


We can hardly believe it's been nearly a year since we exchanged our vows for the second time. Though traditionally nontraditional, Evan and I decided this past weekend that we would like to honor the anniversary gifts traditionally given annually. In a world and a moment so caught up in themselves, we find something reassuring in respecting something old, if you will.


Much thanks to Portland Bride and Groom for allowing us to share our day with your readers and for reminding me what it's really all about.

Much thanks to our vendors/friends that made our day:
[ AniA Collection, Molli Barrs: Soiree, Ben Sherman, Converse, Dan Eckstein Photography, Kymm Ernst, Alice Hacker, Keegan Meegan Press and Bindery, Margulis Jewelers, Katie Merriman: Visual FX Salon, Frank Mondeaux, Our Labor of Love Photography, Paloma’s Nest, Tim Payne, Scott and Sherry Pendarvis, Pete Krebs Trio, Ruby Jewel Treats, Satsuma Press, St. Cupcake, Schwinn, Simpatica Catering, Something Bold, Stolen Sweets, StudioBooth, The Party Place, Twigs & Honey, Two Tarts Bakery, DJ Tyler Tastemaker, West Coast Event]

To our family and friends who attended in show of their support of our union: Word.