Cortney Kelley Photography » Olympia wedding

The Baby Gets Married! Schmidt Mansion, Olympia, WA

Cort — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 00:30:21 +0000

My younger brother Zachary was married this past Saturday–the baby of a family of six kids, of which four of those older siblings are sisters. When he was little we would drag him around on our hips, put him in dresses and generally dote on him. He was such a funny little kid, razor wit and humor, even at four. And he still is completely hilarious. I know that’s one thing Desiree loves about him… we all do! Who doesn’t like to laugh?

Zach proposed to his bride Desiree last year when we were all on holiday in Maui. It was so special to be able to share that with them, and to celebrate their engagement in such a stunning place.

Their wedding day was glorious–absolutely perfect sunny weather. One of those days in the Northwest that helps us to remember why we endure the long gray months of fall, winter and most of spring (ha).

It was a lovely ceremony and GREAT party! I love being with all of my siblings–they are all creative, expressive and so dang fun. It was A LOT of family time time this weekend, but surprisingly drama free! I hope Zach and Desiree are stretched out on a Mexican beach sipping margaritas about now… Too bad I couldn’t convince them to take me along for Honeymoon photo coverage!

University of Washington does more than educate…it nurtures young love

Cort — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 21:20:12 +0000

I first met Danielle when she was starting her senior year of high school at Tumwater High School. We wandered along Tumwater Falls Park snapping photos and talked of her future, of college plans and wanting to attend the University of Washington. She was a sweet, bright and excited young woman. I knew that she would find success in her college years with that combination. And she did, as well as find an adorable young man with the same sweet spirit and exuberance for life.

Jamie waited patiently to see his gorgeous bride.

She was worth the wait…The had some of the funniest touches during their wedding. Guests were entertained before the ceremony with a multi-media show–a slideshow and mini movie that had people laughing one minute and tearing up the next. Well done!There was a break in the sprinkling rain and we dashed outside to capture some autumn afternoon photos. The perfect amount of sun popped through to help make parasol magic.
And the fall colors soaked up every ray of sun and sent the glorious honey filled tones right back to me.Jamie shared one of his favorite passages. Lovely to see such deeply spiritual people.And one last moment with her Dad before heading down the aisle. Nothing but smiles…Heading into the reception, we had to stop for a quick twirl : )And the last shot of the night reveals the silly side. Danielle and Jamie kept the stoic expression despite the frivolity around them. Way to pull that shot off! Loved LOVED capturing your day. Can’t wait to see what the future holds for you two… xoxo Cortney

Glorious Fall Wedding at Alderbrook Resort, Union, WA

Cort — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 01:24:05 +0000

Autumn in the northwest can be as close to perfect as it gets…when the weather cooperates. For Missy and Matt’s wedding in early October, Alderbrook Resort in Union, Washington was utterly glorious. Something the die hard Northwesterners don’t eagerly share with out of towners– needless to say, their California guests were loving every second of it–with group hikes and golfing excursions planned, along with lots of leisure time. The pace of the day was unhurried, just how I like it. Plenty of time to capture the many details of their day.Matt’s childhood baby bonnet was tucked into Missy’s bouquet. And the Rock of Gilbrater, a family heirloom, found it’s place around Missy’s neck after spending some time with Moet & Chandon…Missy’s Dad quickly teared up seeing her in the gown.
And family members were lovingly adorned with bursts of fall color.Everyone needed just a smidge of lips…And the nervous bride took a moment before heading out to the dock to see her groom.Just a tiny bit happy…And a tiny bit nervous…And then a LOT happier…Her God-daughter was the picture perfect flower girl. Those curls could possibly be illegally adorable.And the groomsmen, well, they were ready with their “Fire Powah”A dash of Charlie’s Angels.
And how often do you have Secret Service men as your groom attendants?These tackle ball fans paid tribute with their cake. USC and WSU colors fit perfectly with the fall theme.
And an adorable harpist set the tone for cocktail hour by the water.The night wore on and true colors began to emerge…a sense of humor is an absolute necessity when entering marriage. Can I get a HOLLA? Congrats Missy and Matt–enjoy California but you’ll be back… : ) xox Cortney

Neither Rain nor Sleet will dampen this Wedding! Northwest Wedding, Olympia, WA

Cort — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 23:24:34 +0000

When planning an outdoor wedding in the Northwest, there is one gamble that looms large…the weather. Jeff and Kelly had a wonderful, intimate September wedding with close friends in their secluded slice of heaven, nestled in the forrest. Just one little tweak to their plan, rain. But as true Northwesterners, the rain was simply a well moisturizing addition to the fun of their celebration. Kelly walked shyly down the aisle as raindrops softly fell around her.As she took her place next to her teary eyed groom, it was as if they were the only two people in the world. They did more than smile one another, they radiated love. It was such a sweet ceremony, with a quick retreat down the aisle guests made their way to the shelter of the tents, decorated in perfect fall fashion.I was so glad we had the barn to setup the photo booth area. As the evening drew to a close, Jeff serenaded his lovely bride, all as the rain continued to softly fall. Congratulations Kelly and Jeff! Thanks for allowing me to capture the sweetness… xoxo

Independence Day Love! Fourth of July Wedding, Olympia, WA

Cort — Sat, 10 Jul 2010 19:57:39 +0000

Summertime weddings… what could be better? How about firework display on your anniversary? Lana and David will be guaranteed of that! It was a perfect day–how lucky to have a rainless July 4th!

These two didn’t need the extra firepower–they were definitely fireworks when they look at one another. So sweet! Congrats you two!