An Intimate Washington Wedding Day: Tessa & Jake

Kansas City natives, Jake and Tessa, fell in love with Washington years ago during a visit and never really let it go, leading to their Intimate Washington Wedding. When it came time to plan their wedding, they knew they wanted something meaningful and intentional, surrounded only by their closest loved ones. So they chose a beautiful Airbnb tucked near Bainbridge Island for an intimate elopement that felt like a dream.

What made this day so special wasn’t just the setting; it was the deep sense of connection. Every part of the day felt sentimental and close knit. Their families, who vacation together often and have grown incredibly close over the years, made the day feel like a warm embrace. Just before walking down the aisle, Tessa and her father shared a shot of tequila together, one of the sweetest moments of the day. The couple’s dads officiated the ceremony in the backyard, creating a space filled with emotion and love. throughout the ceremony each of the parents and Jakes brother got to speak, offering the couple advice and well wishes.

After the ceremony, everyone gathered around the kitchen island with champagne in hand, sharing stories and laughing through tears as they recounted memories of Tessa and Jake through the years. It was raw and beautiful in a way that can’t be staged.

Tessa had always dreamed of taking wedding photos on the ferry, so we boarded one to Seattle on the way to their reception. Her joy was so genuine it was contagious. They ended their night with an intimate family dinner at Canlis, a high-end restaurant in Seattle, Tessa had been dreaming about since she got on their waitlist over a year ago.

Every part of the day felt honest and intentional. It was emotional, joyful, and full of love, the kind of day that reminds you what weddings are really about.

If you’re planning an intimate Washington wedding or a Kansas City Wedding Day, I would love to be your photographer! You can reach out here for more info!