Where European Romance Meets the Pacific Northwest | Columbia Gorge Hotel Wedding
Set against the timeless elegance of the Columbia Gorge Hotel, this wedding felt like a quiet love letter to romance, place, and presence. With sweeping views of the Columbia River Gorge, historic architecture, and manicured gardens, the venue offered the perfect coexistence old-world elegance and dramatic natural beauty.
The ceremony unfolded outdoors beneath the trees, where the energy of the day felt calm, grounded, and deeply joyful. There was an ease to it all; nothing rushed, nothing forced, just a couple fully present with one another, surrounded by the people who know them best. From soft laughter to emotional embraces, the celebration felt intimate while still undeniably grand.
Every thoughtful detail was a reflection of intention and artistry; from the refined tablescapes to the quiet elegance of the personal pieces chosen for the day. Soft linens, layered textures, and stunning floral accents complemented the grandeur of the Columbia Gorge Hotel without competing with it, allowing the setting and the story to lead. Photographing these details was about honoring the craftsmanship and care that went into each choice, capturing them in a way that felt timeless, tactile, and true to the atmosphere of the day.
From a photography perspective, days like this are a dream. Natural light filtering through the trees, a relaxed timeline, and a couple who trusts the process allow space for images to feel effortless and honest. Jen focused on documenting the day as it unfolded; the quiet in-between moments, the movement of the veil in the breeze, the way the landscape held the celebration — all while honoring the refined, luxe feel of the setting.
Photographing a wedding like this is a reminder that true luxury lies in experience. In choosing a venue rich with history and pairing it with intentional design and meaningful moments, this celebration felt both transportive and deeply authentic.
Columbia Gorge Hotel continues to be one of Hood River’s most iconic wedding venues, especially for couples drawn to elevated design, natural beauty, and a sense of timelessness. This day was a perfect reflection of that balance: European romance, grounded in the wild beauty of the Gorge.
Vendor Credits
Couple: Michaela & Michael
Photography: Jen Jones Photography (@jenjonesweddings)
Venue: Columbia Gorge Hotel (@columbiagorgehotelandspa)
Event Planning: Alston Mayger Events (@alstonmaygerevents)
HMUA: Lisa Boehm (@lisaboehmbeauty)
Floral: Blüm Design in Floral (@blumpdx)
Rentals: Great Jones NW (@greatjonesnw)
Specialty Linens: Nüage Designs (@nuagedesignsinc)
Cake: Columbia Gorge Confections (@columbiagorgeconfections)
Stationary: The Lettering Bee (@theletteringbeeco)
Photo Booth: The FotoBus (@thefotobus.co)
Ceremony music: Columbia River Strings (@columbiariverstrings)
DJ: Fred Granados
