His hands trembled as he talked about seeing his daughter off to college. She was going to be on her own for the first time. He was choking back the tears. So that she could be brave. This was the story Jess’s father shared during his toast about the milestone of seeing her off to college several years ago.

It’s hard not to see the parallel of that moment, and now this moment. And that again, he was having to see his daughter off on new adventures and he was holding back the tears so she could be brave. Jess and Jon’s eye both weld up with tears in understanding that they were going to be on their own, together, and with the love and support from both their families.

As a wedding photographer, I am so honored to be able to listen to these beautiful toasts filled with love and joy. And I, too, had to fight back the tears (I’m pretty sure I lost that fight, btw). As a mother to daughters, these toasts from parents always just get to me!

I got to work with the wonder Jelena, wedding coordinator and florist of JBK Weddings and Events. After the wedding, we both talked about one of our favorite moments being Jon’s toast to Jess. Jon tells the story of how they met. They had a mutual friend who was moving away and it ended up being a bowling night with 16 guys and Jess. Later, Jon asked his friend for Jess’s number. He knew he was going to regret it for the rest of his life if he didn’t take that chance. Even though he knew he was leaving town in 2 weeks. Jess also took a chance, going to visit him the following week. There was this sweet and loving tone he had telling this story in front of all their friends and family, and it just so apparently how deeply they both love each other.

Congrats Jess and Jon! Your beautiful wedding day is a symbol for the beautiful life that you have built together and for the amazing love and support you have from your family and friends. Enjoy!

We headed over to the Rainier Chapter House for the First Look! The excitement was definitely palpable in the air!

The ceremony space was beautiful decorated with florals from Jelena. I adored all the soft pinks, eucalyptus and gold details. The gold chivari chairs were provided by Sweet N Designs. 

Next, Jess and Jonathan took part in a Korean Wedding Ceremony surrounded by their guests. I just love when couple incorporate these very important cultural traditions into their wedding day! My favorite part was watching Jon’s mother tossing the dates for Jess and Jon to catch. The dates caught symbolize the number of children the couple will later have. Jon’s mother definitely leaned in as close as she could to make sure the most dates could be caught!

A beautiful surprise was when Jess and Jonathan’s friend Jino serenaded the newlyweds with the beautiful ballad, “At Last”. Wow. It was so incredible! You can tell from Jess and Jonathan cheering him on that they were overjoyed with the surprise!

And all the tears during Jess’s father’s toast. 

What a beautiful day! Here’s to you, Jess and Jonathan!

Thank you to all the amazing vendors!

Coordinator and Florist: Jelena of JBK Wedding and Events

Venue: Rainier Chapter House

Catering: A Grand Affaire Catering

Bartending Services: Sip+Duos

Cake: The Cakewalk Shop

Officiant: Jason Groenink

DJ: Adam’s DJ Service

Rentals: Sweet N Design

Favors: Theo Chocolates

Hair and Makeup: Katy Creed of Pacific Artistry

Bridal Gown: Ellie’s Bridal Boutique (Alexandria, VA)

Groom’s Attire: Indochino

Rings: Brilliant Earth and Blue Nile

And special thanks to Betty of Photography with Betty Elaine for being my trusty second shooter!