A number of years ago I photographed my cousin Tess and 2 other cousins (Cora and Rebecca) on an old white fence at our annual family picnic. They were glowing with unforgettable smiles. Their expressions in that image won 1st place and made it on the front of the local paper. And now many years later Tree and I are looking at the lovely woman Tess has grown into and who has fallen in love with Gemo. Being asked to capture her wedding was a true joy, especially being surrounded by so many of our own relatives.

Tess and Gemo’s classic elegant wedding at the Sentinel Hotel with 125 guest was absolutely stunning. Getting married in the Renaissance room at the Sentinel hotel takes you back in time with its high ceilings filled with frescoes with caricatures of Elks board members. Wilson Smith from Nike wonderfully officiated their wedding and Howard White otherwise known as “H” came up to give unforgettable beautiful and comical words of wisdom. Following the ceremony everyone gathered together for a cocktail hour in the Library (gorgeous gold-leaf coffered ceiling) where yes… 2 “therapy llamas” named “Rojo” and “Smokey” showed up to thoroughly entertain everyone. A few strangers in the hotel asked, “Um… excuse me, are those llamas part of their cultural traditions?” (What??? LOL). The reception in the grand ballroom went on late with endless hugging, speeches, dancing, and amazing Armand de Brignac champagne. We are absolutely thrilled for Tess and Gemo.

Tess and Gemo luxury wedding at Sentinel Hotel in downtown Portland.Bride and groom walking out of Renaissance Room ceremony at Sentinel Hotel in downtown Portland

Photography by Jos & Tree. Tess’ dress by Vera Wang from Divine Designs was absolutely stunning. Wow!  And the bridesmaids dresses by J.Crew and shoes by Christian Louboutin were the perfect compliment. Gimo’s custom tux by Public School Custom Tux was the perfect fit as well as the Groomsmen’s tuxes by Estees. Gimo’s Jordans shoes were awesome. The therapy llamas by Therapy Llamas & Alpacas inspired humor and relaxed feeling that goes beyond words. And the champagne by Armand de Brignac was as good as it gets.