I had forgotten. All of it. The past 1.5 decades suddenly seeming a blur as I was engulfed in an entirely different World than our own Wine-Country we're used to. Hot, dry Summer's - and instead, I was now surrounded by lush, wet greenery that would certainly create the most breathtaking backdrop for a Wedding you could ask for! I was in awe...why would anyone have ever left this beauty!?
Seafha escorted me to her Uncle's house to get the ladies dressed...a home with an elevated view of the winding river into the mountains...I wanted to grab a mug of tea & make myself at home...but, alas - we had work to do!
Awww - I think someone approves!
After a 20 min drive from the Highway - out into land that can only be described as pure & breathtaking (that reminds me - I still have GOT to go get this rig washed!), we arrived to a down-pour! We waited it out - which gave us just about 20 mins for Bride & Groom Formals before the Ceremony was to begin...with a growing crowd of on-lookers...Koiya & Seafha did amazing! Thank you, guys!
Seafha's family comes from four villages near Blue Creek & have been descendants of the area for thousands of years. Ah Pah is a Yurok village in the heart of Yurok country - a sacred, spiritual place. Having come 'home' for this intimate day, her Family was very happy to host the ceremony for us all.
Might as well catch a few Rain-drops while the grown-ups are all busy! "-)
Back to Orick where the Reception was held at the Elk Meadow Cabins. If you get a chance - go stay a while! The Cabins are actually full houses - and can fit your entire family comfortably! LOVED it there!
One thing those Klamath boys know? Their SALMON!! Yummm!
The couples design inspiration for the day was 'Abalone'...from shell accents adorning her dress to the hand cut decor, it was a beautiful way to honor their connection to this Earth.
The Bride & Groom put together the most amazing, personalized Gift bag for each of their Guests...Bees Wax Candles, Hand-made Cookies, Teas...just perfect!
I know it was a whirlwind...but, I hope your day was everything you hoped for. You two positively make me smile - from your youthful spirit to that amazing 'glow' you share when you're together...my heart is full of joy for you! CONGRATULATIONS!! You two have worked so hard to get where you are today....now, go make some adorable babies!! xo
_______________________________________Ceremony Venue | Blue Creek Ah Pah Village
Reception Venue | Elk Meadow Cabins
Dress Shop | David's Bridal
Bridesmaid Dresses | Alfred Angelo
Hair/Make-up | Beauty Secrets
Rings | Mac's Indian Jewery & Zales
Custom Bridal Embroidery | Aztec Embroidery
Floral Design | Bride's Mother
Cake Design | Groom's Sister
Catering | Friends & Family
Music | The Merv George Band
Videographer | Thomas Dunklin
Event Design | Bride & Groom & their Families