Wedding bells were originally planned to ring for Erin Haefs and Peter Rifel in Maui, but while on a summer road trip, the two decided there was no point in waiting any longer. The two fell in love in the Emerald City, so having a Seattle-based celebration was not only more convenient, but also more authentic to their story. Erin and Peter stayed at Thompson Seattle during their wedding weekend and had their first look on the hotel’s roof. Wearing a Madison James off-the-shoulder sheath gown featuring a champagne-hued underlay and lace appliqués, Erin was the picture of classic elegance—as was Peter in a classic black tuxedo. The fall wedding naturally called for an autumnal theme, and included an apple-pie shot escort wall, rose quartz velvet linens, and an ombre floral arch in shades of bronze, dusty rose, chocolate and burgundy. Music is important to Erin and Peter, and Brooklyn Duo—a Washington-based cello-piano duo known for its classical covers of pop songs—met the couple’s every expectation. There was also no shortage of gastronomical treats for guests to enjoy. Happy hour featured smoked salmon and honeydew canapés, bite-size grilled cheese and tomato bisque shooters, which guests noshed on while taking in the views of Mount Rainier. Dinner was a family-style Italian affair with spaghetti and meatballs, chicken Parmesan, and roasted garlic and mascarpone mashed potatoes. A night of dancing under the full moon was capped off with the bride’s and groom’s favorite desserts: individually plated crème brûlée and molten chocolate cake.
