Jessica & Shaun

I was looking forward to Jessica and Shaun’s wedding from our first meeting high above the city at the Portland City Grill. A traditional Jewish ceremony combined with a New Orleans masquerade theme. It made for one awesome party. A live brass band, dancing, masks — and a parade through the halls of the Governor!

I must say too that Jessica was a simply stunning bride. As she came up behind Shaun for their first look, she actually teased him a bit — not tapping his shoulder right away to signal him to turn. I actually hadn’t had this happen before. It was a playful and heartwarming bit of whispered banter. It made Shaun’s expression on seeing Jessica that much sweeter.

So, did I mention it was a party? It was SO much of a party that there wasn’t a formal sit down dinner planned. Jessica and Shaun had the entire second floor of the Governor at their disposal, which made for a wonderful event for guests. You could mingle in the quieter Library Room, dance with the live band in the Billiard Room, even duck into yet another side room to play games like bean bags and giant Jenga. Yes, giant Jenga!

Also, a very special acknowledgement to Shaun’s grandfather, who played several wonderful tunes on piano for the newlywed couple. Music is huge in their lives, and Shaun took to the stage to play bass with the band as the evening went on.

I always enjoy photographing the Hora, the wedding dance where guests hoist both bride and groom up on chairs. There’s so much energy in that dance.

I could go on and on, but I’ll wrap by saying it was an honor to be there to document Jessica and Shaun’s wedding day. It was amazing.