I have been dying to photograph a wedding at The Ruins at The Astor in Astoria, OR for at least 5 years now. My dreams finally came true a couple of weeks ago! This venue is truly one of a kind and has such a unique backdrop, perfect for a fall wedding. I had such a great time and am so excited to share these images!

Wedding at The Ruins at The Astor

This venue was once built to be the tallest building in Astoria (1921). After a rocky start, a city fire and ownership changes, it eventually operated as a hotel for about 40 years before being condemned by the city in the 60s. Imagine walking into a condemned and abandoned historic 20s-era building and hosting a party, and that’s pretty much the feeling you get here! It has that classic Art Deco vibe, but the walls and ceiling are crumbling. The large columns in the grand hall look like they’ve been through a 50-year hail storm.

If you’re lucky enough to get to go upstairs (only the couple and photographer are allowed), you’ll hear the floor cracking under you. A bit of danger and excitement with every step! The pretty teal and pink paint is peeling off the walls, dusty white sheets cover large unknown objects, giant holes are in the ceiling and walls, and the remnants of faded fruit-colored paint on very intricately carved columns are still visible.

Downtown Astoria Wedding

The entire week before the wedding, the forecast looked quite foreboding, calling for serious rain and intense winds. I personally never believe the forecast, unless it’s within the present 2-hour window of my life lol. At least, not in Oregon! It was such a bad forecast, that there was even talk of delaying the ceremony if needed. Turns out the winds and rain came pretty strongly the night before the wedding, and the rain mostly stayed away all day. We even had some sunshine periodically, so the couple and I ran to the waterfront for a few portraits when we got a chance!

The getting ready suite is pretty amazing, on the 7th floor. There are lots of windows and even a balcony overlooking the river, and the iconic bridge. The couple loved watching the large barges slowly make their way down the river. I started the day with the couple getting ready, before we headed upstairs to the venue for portraits. Next we did formal portraits with family and the wedding party, before the ceremony started.

The Vendors

Venue – The Ruins at The Astor

DJ & Planner – Synergy Events

Catering – Niblack Events

Florist – The Angry Florist

Photographer – Crystal Genes Photography