The CGP Blog

This Willamette Star wedding cruise started with a pretty great love story. It also required a little matchmaking across two different states. Heidi’s boss lives in Portland, while her boss’s parents live in Minneapolis. Those parents also happened to be neighbors with the groom. Somewhere along the way, they realized these two might be perfect […]

This Portland destination garden wedding brought a couple from Texas and their favorite people together for a beautiful Oregon celebration. They had fallen in love with the Portland area while vacationing here. Eventually, they decided their wedding was the perfect excuse to bring everyone back with them. They arrived several days early, which gave us […]

This Gorge Crest Vineyards wedding was absolutely beautiful, even though the weather had plans of its own. The couple created a celebration filled with thoughtful details, incredible florals, and so much personality. You may notice something a little different about these photos. The couple requested that I not publicly share any images showing recognizable faces. […]

This wedding at Nordic Northwest Nordia House looked like one of the most joyful celebrations of the year. One of my associate photographers captured this beautiful day while I was out of the office for two weeks, showing my three nieces around Oregon for their very first visit. Looking through these photos, I definitely had […]

This Brush Prairie backyard wedding was one I had looked forward to for months. It was especially meaningful because I have photographed the groom (and his younger brother) since he was about ten years old. Watching him grow up and then photographing his wedding felt incredibly special. I first met his now-wife during a family […]

This DIY North Plains backyard wedding was the perfect reminder that the best celebrations happen when couples stay true to themselves. The entire day took place at the groom’s parents’ home, creating a relaxed atmosphere that felt welcoming from beginning to end. One of my team photographers documented this beautiful day while I was photographing […]

This Burgaw NC wedding was extra special because the bride is a dear friend from my hometown. It was a whirlwind week and I got to help with all kinds of wedding crafts and activities, which made the experience even more unforgettable. A Week of Flowers and Preparation The celebration started earlier in the week […]

This indoor-outdoor wedding in Troutdale Oregon, was one of the most unique events I have photographed at The Troutdale House. The day blended heartfelt moments, playful details, and a reception that felt like a choose your own adventure. Getting Ready and Personal Style The couple brought so much personality into every part of their day. […]

This Stevens Pavilion wedding at Hoyt Arboretum was intimate, meaningful, and full of emotion. Fewer than ten family members gathered for a deeply personal ceremony in Washington Park’s Arboretum. The setting held special meaning for the couple. They spent many early dates here while navigating a long distance relationship. Now they live together in California, […]

This winter wedding at The Aerie at Eagle Landing was proof that changes in timing sometimes works out better than planned. The couple originally planned an October celebration, but illness forced a difficult postponement. Rescheduling a wedding is always a tough call, but the vendor team all came together to help make it happen for […]

If you’re wondering how to prepare for a family portrait session, the good news is that it doesn’t require overplanning or perfection. A little intention goes a long way. The goal isn’t perfect behavior or forced smiles. It’s connection. When families feel comfortable and confident, the photos feel natural, connected, and real. Embrace Color (Yes, […]

I was so excited to be a part of this wedding at Powell’s Rare Book Room. I’ve been photographing this family for a few years and was so excited when they reached out to me about their wedding plans. And does it get more unique than a ceremony in the rare book room at Powell’s […]

Logistics, Rentals, Setups, and Real World Planning Tips Wondering how to prepare for a Portland Park Wedding? Planning a wedding in a Portland park is exciting and beautiful, but also very hands on. Unlike traditional venues, you handle more details yourself. This guide covers everything to think about before wedding day, from rentals and signage […]

Reservations for Portland Park weddings opens in person on January 5th, 2026. Many couples camp out overnight to be first in line when the doors open! I thought it might be helpful to create a guide for couples considering using a Portland Park for their wedding. I’ve added a ton of wedding photos I’ve taken […]

This Troutdale House Weddiversary Celebration had a few fun surprises. The city recently cleared out some trees behind the venue, revealing a gorgeous new river view right in the backyard. They’re even building a little riverside park and walkway, which will make this already charming venue even more magical. Add in a couple who have […]

This disco karaoke wedding at Coopers Hall was pure joy from start to finish. I joined my associate photographer for the last couple hours of the night, and I’m so glad I did. The entire celebration shimmered with pink, sparkle, and good vibes. A Sparkly and Playful Celebration The couple built their wedding theme around […]

This Vintage Gardens Rustic Events wedding in Washington was a stunning blend of garden elegance and rustic charm. It was my first time photographing at this venue, and I am already hoping to return soon. Everywhere I turned, there was another beautifully maintained backdrop waiting for its moment. Vintage Gardens Rustic Events Wedding Nicole Issler […]

This Moonlight Events wedding in Vancouver, Washington was elegant, emotional, and full of personality. I had been looking forward to it since photographing their engagement session last winter. That session took us across four locations, including a basketball court to celebrate Leslie’s time in the WNBA. From the very start, I knew this love story […]

This Tiny Creekside Retreat wedding in Washington was one of the most laid back and unique celebrations I have photographed. The venue sits along Abernathy Creek in Longview, Washington, and it was the perfect match for this sweet, intimate day. A Hidden Gem Along the Creek I have known the owner of My Tiny Creekside […]

This grand celebration in historic Troutdale was one of the largest weddings I have ever photographed at this venue. The day was full of movement, energy, and joy. It reminded me how much fun it is to photograph a big wedding! Grand Celebration in Historic Troutdale This adorable couple originally married in India, surrounded by […]