We're just so excited to share today's wedding inspiration shoot with you.
We're big supporters of marriage equality at Bridal Musings, and we're actively working on bringing diversity and equality to the weddings and features we share on the blog.
And so today, we're delighted and honoured, to have the opportunity to showcase the work of some of Oregon, and the North West's finest vendors, all of whom support marriage equality.
Featuring real life couple, Adam and Andrew, and photographed by the super-talented Brittany Lauren Photography, this shoot inspires an elegant fall wedding, with the rustic backdrop of a mountain retreat, a chic dessert table filled with cakes and cocktails, smart autumnal attire and masculine, yet romantic, floral arrangements of maroon blooms, berries and succulents.
This shoot was conceived and co-ordinated by Joni Whitworth and Janelle Barajas, aka Mint and Mirth.
They're Portland-based purveyors of delicious and creative cocktails, and bar services for weddings and events.
We'll let them tell you a little more about their concept behind the shoot, and the people who helped them bring it all together…
As wedding bartenders, we are often asked to participate in styled photo shoots for magazines and blogs.
These collaborations are a wonderful chance to showcase our work and to meet other talented vendors in the industry.
However, we are one of the only LGBTQ-owned wedding companies in Portland, and I have noticed a distinct lack of articles that feature gay, lesbian, or transgender couples. This lack of representation can feel very isolating at times!
To address this issue, I had the idea to put together a photoshoot featuring the natural beauty of winter in the Pacific Northwest and a real-life couple who happen to be gay.
Adam and Andrew have been together for several years. This shoot was was an opportunity to honor their relationship with a beautiful set of portraits while also showcasing Pacific Northwest vendors who support marriage equality!
2014 is such an exciting time for LGBTQ marriage rights in Oregon. Oregon is ready for marriage equality, and the wedding industry here wants to help.
I brought on a team of vendors who are passionate about this cause and wanted to donate their time and energy to bring attention to this issue.
Just a few of these vendors include the wonderful family who manages Miller Farm Retreat (who prepared for our visit by cleaning up their forests for days after a big winter storm!), Aerin from Royal Steamline invitations, who put together the invitations and cocktail recipe card, Lane' from Something Borrowed Vintage Rentals, who styled the entire shoot and created beautiful displays, Katie from Duchess Clothier, who fit both gentlemen for gorgeous bespoke suits, and of course Brittany Lauren, who captured it all with dreamy, light-filled photography.
Our inspiration for the photo shoot was actually a color combo: the beauty of oxblood red juxtaposed with the stark winter weight of the snow on Mount Hood.
We envisioned a relaxed, cozy, beautiful afternoon that captures the intimacy of the love that Adam and Andrew share.
How to Make a Plum Brandy Sour with Mint & Mirth
Our signature cocktail features fresh winter citrus, local brandy, and plum simple syrup.
To make this drink at home, simply combine in a mixing glass:
1 ounce of fresh lemon juice
2 ounces of brandy,
1 ounce of plum simple syrup .
Shake vigorously, and strain into a chilled goblet or a coupe glass.
Slice an orange as a garnish and enjoy!
Isn't it gorgeous – I really love these hues for a fall wedding, and how delicious do those cocktails look? Definitely one to try when the cold weather kicks in.
Thanks so much to Brittany Lauren Photography, Mint and Mirth along with their awesome team of vendors and of course Adam and Andrew for sharing this gorgeous shoot with us.
For more rustic romance, see Rustic Real Weddings + Inspiration Shoots.
