Married & More with Michelle: in the press

Allison and James were married in September on a gorgeous sunny day without a cloud in the sky. In fact it was on the hot side for that time of year. As evening fell we were treated to a shooting star during toasts only adding to the whimsical atmosphere of the wedding. I will walk through some of the fun details and moments...Photography by the talented brothers of Gabriel Boone Photography. Check out Edit 1 Media's gorgeous highlight reel shot in super 8 MM film with a vintage timeless look and the current issue of Seattle Metropolitan Bride and Groom Magazine which featured their wedding.

Allison and James along with their families were truly a pleasure to help. Most of our planning took place over the phone and email since Allison and James were living in Boston where Allison was finishing her law degree at Harvard. They met one another during college and have an inspiring love story that has withstood James' deployment to Iraq while in the Army over the years. To celebrate the place where they first met Gabe flew to Boston and took their engagement pics at Harvard's sprawling campus.

Their love of academics played into the theme of the wedding being an elegant dinner in an old library. The setting was Allison's grade school (and 9-12 girls boarding school), Annie Wright, located near the Tacoma waterfront with an East Cost regal feel. When you step foot in the historical building you are met with an elegant staircase and foyer with dark rich wood complimenting the wedding color palette of mahogany, pale green and ivory. Chris Griffith, a gifted stationary designer out of Northern California and good friend of mine, incorporated the school throughout the invitations and wedding day paper goodies.

The girls began the morning at the school's bridal suite with hair and makeup styling by Salon Maison. Allison's delicate and flowing Vera Wang gown and pale green bridesmaids dresses also by Vera paired nicely with the guys classic black tuxes from Tuxedo Club.

The ceremony was held in the schools chapel tucked away with dramatic vaulted wood beamed ceilings and tall cozy pews. Taper candles were flanked down the aisle for a warm and inviting glow. I had to include photos of the adorable little ones that took part in the ceremony. Steven Moore made ivy head pieces to adorn the sweet flower girls.

Amazing designer, Steven Moore, who I just adore partnering with, transformed the brick courtyard and garden into the old world library that Allison and James were inspired by in their love of academia. Long dramatic tables had sheets of classical music down the center with stacks of leather bound and faded vintage books, dripping pillar candles, fountain pens, quills, lush green hydrangea, creamy white roses and green Boston ivy vines. All of these elements came together beautifully to bring the vision to life.

Tacoma-based Gallucci’s Catering outdid themselves serving a fresh seasonal menu. Guests dined on a duet entree of grilled salmon with blistered tomato and lemon risotto paired with peppered sirloin and yukon gold mashed potatoes with asparagus.

For dessert guests were treated to a towering four foot high cake with a fluffy ivory buttercream design from Celebrity Cake Studio. The cake had alternating layers of chocolate éclair and vanilla cake with raspberry filling.

To entertain the younger guests Steven designed a delicious candy bar and kids activity table with a coloring station with a story book theme.

James' family has a fruit orchard in Wenatchee so to incorporate it Steven created a farmers market in the garden. Wooden apple crates and bushel baskets were filled to the brim with fruit. Chris Griffith designed custom logo signage and kraft paper bags for guests to 'shop' and take home a variety of fresh apples and pears straight from the family farm. Refreshing Washington apple martini's were also served with apples from the orchard.

As the sun set the upbeat Second Wind Band kept guests on the dance floor and Galluci's fired up a mouth watering late night snack of spicy sliders, sweet potato fries and mini chocolate milk shakes which were a big hit.