Chava & Seymour
Moving to Astoria, OR from Hawaii just over a year ago has been an exciting journey, and I am thrilled to capture my very first Astoria wedding. Making it even more special, this beautiful celebration embraced an Island theme that deeply resonates with both the couple and my own past experiences.
I had the honor of photographing the gorgeous Jewish wedding of Chava and Seymour. Their day was filled with meaningful moments, highlighted by the vibrant Hawaii Island theme. It gave me the perfect reason to wear my Aloha shirt and fully embrace the joyful spirit of the occasion. The weather was absolutely stunning, with bright sunshine that even had me applying sunscreen for the first time since my move to Astoria—definitely a memorable moment!
Congratulations to Chava & Seymour on an unforgettable wedding filled with love, culture, and island warmth. It was a privilege to be part of your special day.
Before the ceremony, we captured the first look amid the lush greenery of Cullaby Lake County Park. The location was stunning—serene and uncrowded—giving us the perfect private setting to create intimate and genuine moments. We had this beautiful spot all to ourselves, making it an ideal backdrop for those special pre-ceremony memories.
The signing of the Ketubah took place just before the ceremony, surrounded by close family and friends. It was my first time witnessing and photographing this meaningful tradition, and it was truly beautiful to observe. The moment captured a deep sense of commitment and community, setting a heartfelt tone for the rest of the day.
What a beautiful day to get married at Cullaby Lake. Not a single cloud in the sky perfectly complements the island theme of their wedding. The vibrant colors all around—from the lush greenery to the bright floral arrangements—create a stunning backdrop. Every detail harmonizes with the natural beauty of the setting, making this celebration truly unforgettable.
Mazel tov! What a beautiful ceremony. It was truly wonderful to witness this couple in love, their joy and connection shining through every moment. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness and cherished memories together!
The wedding kiss! They did it! They are now husband and wife! This moment marks the beginning of a lifetime together, filled with love, commitment, and shared dreams.
What is an island-themed wedding without haku leis? These beautiful, fragrant floral crowns are more than just accessories—they’re symbols of love, honor, and celebration. Adorning the couple with haku leis adds an authentic, vibrant touch that perfectly complements the island atmosphere.
The reception was held at the 503 Marquees Stagehouse and Cocktails in Astoria, Oregon. This marked the venue’s first wedding event at this location, setting a beautiful precedent. The space showcased great attention to detail, perfect for celebrating a memorable occasion. Talented musicians were on hand to entertain the newlyweds and their guests, creating a vibrant and memorable atmosphere throughout the celebration.
The bouquet toss was held outside. Why not? We wanted to showcase the charm of downtown Astoria. The quaint streets, historic architecture, and natural light provided the perfect backdrop for this joyful moment. Guests gathered eagerly on the sidewalk, surrounded by the vibrant energy of the town, making the tradition even more memorable against the unique character of Astoria.
Chava's mom caught the bouquet. What a special moment it was—a joyful and unexpected highlight that brought laughter and joy to everyone present.
And then, the cutting of the cake—the ultimate dessert moment, marking the sweet climax of the celebration!
