Newlyweds and fellow wedding vendors alike have cast their votes: Allow us to present our annual showcase of Washington state’s Best of Bride–winning wedding experts, who ensure your big day will be picture perfect.
BEST ALL-AROUND WEDDING VENDOR
CORT Party Rental
Known for: From tables, tents and chairs to flatware, glassware and china, if you need it, Everett- and Fife-based CORT Party Rental is almost guaranteed to have it. Factor into this equation the company’s ever-friendly customer service and now an extensive collection of top-tier linens, napkins and overlays, thanks to the recent acquisition of Choice Linens, and it all adds up to one big win for this rental company.
Finalists: Herban Feast, Perfectly Posh Events
BEST NEW VENDOR
Happy Hour Designer Bar Rentals
Known for: Karla McCord’s sweet Bellevue-based business brings a touch of class and sophistication to the hydration station, with a rich selection of portable bar stations, bar backs and barware available to couples for customizing their cocktail hour decor.
Finalists: The Finery, The Greatest Adventure Weddings & Elopements
BEST NEW RECEPTION SITE
The Sanctuary
Known for: This century-old church located next to the upcoming The Mark hotel downtown has been given new life, with the venue’s classic stained-glass windows and red-tiled dome roof now enhanced by a swank balcony bar and the sublime fare of chef Gavin Stephenson.
Finalists: Hyatt Regency Lake Washington at Seattle’s Southport, The Finery
Photography by from left, Cody Parris Photography;The SweetSide
From left, Celille Cellars, Best Place for an Outdoor Wedding and an Intimate Wedding; The Sweetside, Best Desserts
BEST WEDDING PLANNER
The Invisible Hostess
Known for: The energetic and inventive team at The Invisible Hostess—led by “boss lady” Sheena Kalso—brings a “can do” attitude to all elements of wedding coordination, providing a no-stone-left-unturned plan for each client.
Finalists: Eventful Moments, Weddings with Wendy
BEST DAY-OF WEDDING COORDINATOR
Perfectly Posh Events
Known for: Owner Holly Patton Olsen and her team excel in offering stress-free guidance in planning easygoing yet elegant events, both here in Seattle and in their new city of Portland.
Finalists: Eventful Moments, Weddings with Wendy
Photography by from left, Aga K. Photography; Katie Parra
From left, Happy Hour Designer Bar Rentals, Best New Vendor; The Invisible Hostess Team, Best Wedding Planners
BEST FLORAL DESIGNER
Gather Design Company
Known for: Amy Kunkel-Patterson knows her blooms, lovingly crafting her lush, romantic and whimsical wedding arrangements with locally grown blooms and also ingeniously incorporating elements such as foliage, seedpods, berries and other seasonal finds.
Finalists: Flora Nova Design, Fena Flowers
BEST RENTALS
CORT Party Rental
Known for: Boasting one of the largest rental collections in the state, CORT Party Rental has two convenient showrooms in Everett and Fife for scoping out the goods, which it can deliver pretty much anywhere in between for your big day.
Finalists: Pedersens Rentals, Grand Event Rentals
BEST SPECIALTY DECOR RENTALS
Vintage Ambiance
Known for: Since its inception in 2012, this Bellevue-based company has been a beacon for brides on the hunt for vintage wedding decor, thanks to owner Beckie McCann’s truly extensive and exquisite collection of antique furniture, architectural elements and one-of-a-kind finds.
Finalists: Fanciful Rentals, Rented Elegance & Design
BEST INVITATION DESIGNER
Paper Fling
Known for: Ruth Song’s masterly manipulation of paper has garnered her many fans (us included!), who love the extra-special custom wedding invitations and paper goods this Kirkland-based designer creates.
Finalists: Grey & Cake, Pink + Peach
MOST CREATIVE FAVORS
Welcome Gifts by Pink Blossom Events
Known for: Also the winner of Best Attendant Gifts this year, BreeAnn Gale’s chic, carefully curated gift boxes are sure to please out-of-towners and Seattleites alike, thanks to the sweet selection of locally crafted goods in each.
Finalists: Fran’s Chocolates, Pomp & Revel
BEST PHOTOGRAPHER
Alante Photography
Known for: Blending the styles of editorial fashion and photojournalism, Kimberly Person and Loren Callahan’s natural and seemingly effortless photographs capture the individual romance, mood and personality of your nuptials.
Finalists: Azzura Photography, Barbie Hull Photography
BEST VIDEOGRAPHER
Pixel Dust Weddings
Known for: Owner Dani Warner has a keen eye for detail, one that is put to good use in each and every wedding she shoots; each carefully edited cinematic montage showcases you and your loved ones, plus the fleeting moments of your big day.
Finalists: Aaron Horton Productions, Tennison Weddings
BEST MUSICIANS FOR THE CEREMONY
Windsong Trio
Known for: Blending the melodic sounds of the flute, violin and cello, founder Megan Imrie and her Windsong Trio ensembles are engaged, professional and always give a superb performance.
Finalists: Michael Benson Band, Seattle String Quartet
Photograph Courtesy of 321 Foto
321 foto, Best Photo Booths
BEST LIVE BAND FOR THE RECEPTION
Michael Benson Band
Known for: From Sinatra-era standards to band leader Michael Benson’s all-time favorite wedding song, “Dynamite” by Taio Cruz, whatever the mood for your reception, this five-man band has the perfect song ready in its back pocket.
Finalists: The Nines, Oncore
BEST DJ FOR THE RECEPTION
Bamboo Beats
Known for: Led by founder Isaac Dyckhoff, these DJs are always spot on, thanks to the team’s creative turntable skills and perfect balance of tunes.
Finalists: Magnolia Rhapsody, Otto-Matic Mobile Music
BEST ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE RECEPTION
Chris Graves Music
Known for: Longtime industry vet Chris Graves gives couples the best of both worlds as he can deftly perform both DJ and master of ceremonies duties as well as play the super-suave frontman to his five-piece reception band.
Finalists: Magician Nash Fung, Seattle Parties
Photography by The Popes
Honey Crumb Cake Studio, Best Wedding Cakes
BEST PHOTO BOOTH
321 Foto Photo Booths
Known for: Adored by clients and vendors alike, Marilee Kimball’s 321 Foto personifies fun with retro-style cameras and out-of-the-box backdrop options, which draw in even the most camera-shy guest.
Finalists: Shutter Bus Company, The SnapBar
BEST LIGHTING/AUDIOVISUAL
Crimson Haze Event Lighting
Known for: These experts are the industry go-tos for lighting needs ranging from subtle to spectacular. Services include custom monogram gobos, uplighting, illuminated centerpieces and string lights.
Finalists: Blue Danube Productions, GreenLight Events
Eat Up: Catering & Desserts
BEST CATERER
Herban Feast
Known for: Herban Feast continues to push boundaries in the culinary arena, dreaming up dishes using seasonal, local ingredients; appetizers like potato–Dungeness crab cakes or roasted leek and chard tartlets are sure to keep guests satisfied.
Finalists: City Catering, Lisa Dupar Catering
BEST BAR SERVICE
Happy Camper Cocktail Company
Known for: Working with couples to create their own signature drinks, owners Troy and Belinda Kelly, who are themselves husband and wife, serve these inventive cocktail creations straight out of a fully restored 1966 Aladdin vintage camper that couldn’t possibly be cuter.
Finalists: Herban Feast, Pour Girls and Some Guys
BEST WEDDING CAKES
Honey Crumb Cake Studio
Known for: Producing innovative, modern and decidedly delicious confections from her Lower Queen Anne studio, owner Carla Schier creates veritable works of art and is known for her delicate details, realistic-looking frosted blooms and creative use of pattern work on her cakes.
Finalists: Baked. Custom Cakes, The SweetSide
Photography by from left, Blue Rose Photography; Emily Magers Photography; Alante Photography
From left, Gather Design Company, Best Floral Designer; Vintage Ambiance, Best Specialty Rentals; Atlante Photography, Best Photographers
BEST GROOM’S CAKES
Baked. Custom Cakes
Known for: Cakes from Kristina Serfass of West Seattle’s Baked. spring to life with colorful details and fondant designs ranging from footballs to city skylines. Your man will love the bakery’s wildly inventive style, which has gained Serfass multiple wins on Food Network’s Cake Wars competition.
Finalists: Honey Crumb Cake Studio, The SweetSide
BEST DESSERTS
The SweetSide
Known for: Kara Burfeind, owner of this Wallingford-based bakery, brings her deft touch to desserts as well as cakes, creating bites such as mini cake doughnuts and petite crème brûlée.
Finalists: Honey Crumb Cake Studio, Lady Yum
The Look: Apparel, Accessories and Beauty
BEST DRESS SHOP
The Dress Theory
Known for: This sweeter-than-sweet Wallingford boutique not only carries a unique inventory of au courant designer gowns (such as Claire Pettibone, Hayley Paige and Gala by Galia Lahav lines), but also caters to astute, chic brides with a refreshingly personalized boutique shopping experience.
Finalists: I Do Bridal, Nordstrom Wedding Suite
Photography by from left, Courtesy of Michael Benson Band; Lionlady Photography
From left, Michael Benson Band, Best Live Band for the Reception; Green Lake Jewelry Works, Best Locally-Designed Jewelry and Best Engagement Rings
BEST CUSTOM DRESS DESIGNER
Luly Yang Couture
Known for: Seattle’s most celebrated couturier, Luly Yang continues to amaze with the soft, fluttery organza gowns, dramatic mermaid-cut creations and sophisticated A-line confections that have drawn brides to her designs for 20 years now.
Finalists: Cicada Bridal, Desiree Hartsock Bridal
BEST BRIDAL ACCESSORIES
I Do Bridal
Known for: Excellent and attentive customer service and a top-notch selection of ethereal veils and delicate jewelry keep this approachable atelier on top. Another reason is the beautiful array of frocks from the likes of Justin Alexander, Allure Bridals and Maggie Sottero.
Finalists: BHLDN, The Dress Theory
BEST BRIDAL PARTY APPAREL
Nordstrom
Known for: A veritable one-stop shop for all things wedding from attire to accessories, this locally owned fashion giant continues to impress. The Wedding Suite atelier boasts personal stylists to help everyone from mom to maids craft their own stylish look.
Finalists: BHLDN, I Do Bridal
BEST FORMALWEAR FOR MEN
Nordstrom
Known for: It’s a snap to outfit the gents at Nordstrom—from the stellar shoe department to the suit selection highlighted by such designers as Hugo Boss and Ted Baker London.
Finalists: The Black Tux, Men’s Wearhouse
Photography from left, Erin Perkins Photography; Courtesy of Paper Fling
From left, Happy Camper Cocktail Company, Best Bar Service; Paper Fling, Best Invitation Designer
BEST HAIR & MAKEUP
Salon Maison
Known for: Led by cofounders Heidi and Jason Landers, this mobile salon provides on-location hair and makeup sessions. It also offers in-one-on-one consultations beforehand to ensure the big day is stress-free.
Finalists: Offwhite Makeup & Beauty, Yessie Libby Makeup & Styling
BEST LOCALLY DESIGNED BRIDAL JEWELRY AND BEST ENGAGEMENT & WEDDING RINGS
Green Lake Jewelry Works
Known for: This shop’s personal approach to creating jewelry is apparent the moment you step into either the Northgate or Bellevue studios and see the line of jewelry makers at the ready. The designers work one on one with each client, and the jeweler also reworks vintage jewels to give them new life.
Finalists: Locally Designed Bridal Jewelry: Everling Jewelry, Sholdt Design
Engagement & Wedding Rings: Robbins Brothers, Sholdt Design
Photography by Juliana J Photography
Ray’s Boathouse, Best Rehearsal Dinner Restaurant
It’s Finally Here: Day-of Team
BEST OFFICIANT
Window to the Soul Ministry, Reverend Mary Calhoun
Known for: The Reverend Mary Calhoun crafts meaningful messages tailored to each specific couple she weds, warmly assisting couples of all orientations, cultures and beliefs in the creation of inspired nondenominational ceremonies.
Finalists: Married by AnneMarie, AnneMarie Juhlian; Rev. Ray Van Winkle & Associates
BEST TRANSPORTATION/GETAWAY CAR
British Motor Coach
Known for: The rare vintage motorcar collection—which includes a midnight black 1957 Rolls Royce Silver Cloud—is the hallmark for this well-respected company led by beloved founder Roy DuBrow.
Finalists: Butler Seattle, Kenmore Air
BEST VALET
Butler Seattle
Known for: Owned and expertly run by the Butler family since 1994, this valet company is widely regarded its the efficient and energetic staff. |
Finalists: Red Carpet Valet, Four Park Avenue
Photography from left, Angela & Evan Photography; B. Jones Photography
From left, Baked. Custom Cakes, Best Groom’s Cakes; Salon Maison, Best Hair and Makeup
The Perfect Spot: Wedding Venues
BEST QUINTESSENTIAL SEATTLE-AREA RECEPTION SITE
Sodo Park by Herban Feast
Known for: Continuing to reign as one of the city’s hippest spots to wed, the century-old space has shown itself to be truly adaptable, playing host to both sophisticated and shabby-chic celebrations.
Finalists: The Fairmont Olympic Hotel, The Admiral’s House
BEST NORTHWEST DESTINATION WEDDING SITE
Roche Harbor Resort
Known for: Stroll the dock and dance under a starry sky: These dreamy visuals come to life at this charming resort located on San Juan Island. The soothing, stress-free experience begins with evenings spent in front of the massive 8-foot outdoor fireplace and culminates the moment you say “I do” under a blossom-laden arbor.
Finalists: Alderbrook Resort & Spa, Swiftwater Cellars
BEST PLACE FOR A WATERFRONT WEDDING AND BEST PLACE FOR A SUNSET WEDDING
The Woodmark Hotel and Still Spa
Known for: Nestled on picturesque Carillon Point in Kirkland, the Woodmark’s signature Olympic Terrace occupies prime Lake Washington real estate. Say “I do” along its shores and then slip away with your sweetheart for a sunset cruise on the Woodmark II, a completely restored 28-foot Chris-Craft sedan express.
Finalists: Waterfront Wedding: Alderbrook Resort & Spa, The Edgewater Hotel
Sunset Wedding: The Admiral’s House, The Edgewater Hotel
BEST PLACE FOR AN OUTDOOR WEDDING AND BEST PLACE FOR INTIMATE WEDDINGS
DeLille Cellars
Known for: Winners of two awards this year, this lovely 10-acre estate in the heart of wine country not only boasts a romantic French-inspired chateau but picturesque gardens and a hidden lawn, nestled among towering cedar trees, for holding your breathtaking ceremony.
Finalists: Outdoor Weddings: Bella Luna Farms, JM Cellars
Intimate Weddings: The Corson Building, JM Cellars
BEST PLACE FOR A LARGE GALA WEDDING
The Fairmont Olympic Hotel
Known for: The classic Italian Renaissance–style architecture of this downtown landmark is outshone only by the impeccable, friendly service from the hotel’s on-site events team. The grand Spanish ballroom can accommodate as many as 400 guests; within, guests will dine in splendor under regal chandeliers and surrounded by Palladian windows.
Finalists: AXIS Pioneer Square, Sodo Park by Herban Feast
Best of the Rest: Before & After the Wedding
BEST REHEARSAL DINNER RESTAURANT
Ray’s Boathouse
Known for: Beautifully situated on the shores of Ballard and overlooking Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, locally owned Ray’s has been serving impeccable seafood fare to Seattleites for more than 60 years.
Finalists: Canlis, Salty’s on Alki Beach
BEST ACCOMMODATIONS FOR GUESTS
Willows Lodge
Known for: Located a mere 30 minutes from downtown, Willows Lodge feels worlds away, tucked amongst the picturesque rolling hills of Woodinville. During their stay, guests can linger in the on-site luxury spa or linger at the table at the renowned Barking Frog restaurant.
Finalists: The Fairmont Olympic Hotel, Four Seasons Hotel
BEST PLACE TO SPEND THE WEDDING NIGHT
Salish Lodge & Spa
Known for: Perched on the precipice of Snoqualmie Falls, Salish Lodge offers couples the height of Northwest luxury for their stay, from fine fare featuring house-grown ingredients at The Dining Room to the Northwest-influenced treatments in the spa.
Finalists: The Fairmont Olympic Hotel, Willows Lodge
BEST WEDDING SHOW
Weddings in Woodinville
Known for: This annual show beautifully showcases the venues of wine country, with each unique spot decorated in a different theme each year by an all-star team of vendors.
Finalists: I Do Sodo, Seattle Wedding Show
Photography from left, Rebecca Ellison Photography; IJ Photo
From left, Perfectly Posh Events, Best Day-of Wedding Coordinators; The Woodmark Hotel & Still Spa, Best Place for a Waterfront Wedding and for a Sunset Weddings
BEST PLACE FOR ATTENDANT GIFTS
Welcome Gifts by Pink Blossom Events
Known for: The themed gifts from Kirkland-based wedding planner Pink Blossom are curated to fit your wishes and feature products such as Fran’s Chocolates, Beecher’s Handmade Cheese crackers and Caffe Vita coffee.
Finalists: Fran’s Chocolates, Nordstrom
BEST BACHELOR PARTY SPOT
Woodinville Whiskey Co.
Known for: Tour the inner workings of this rustically cool Woodinville distillery before kicking back with the guys at the bar for a taste of the brand’s exceptional rye whiskey.
Finalists: Butler Seattle Wine Tours, Westland Distillery
BEST BACHELORETTE PARTY SPOT
Butler Seattle Wine Tours
Known for: Take a refined romp through Woodinville’s wide array of award-winning wineries with these chauffeured tours by Butler. Tours are custom-made for each group, with stops selected according to your preferences in wine.
Finalists: Can Can, Le Faux at Julia’s on Broadway Restaurant
Photography from Robin Co. Photography
From left, The Sanctuary, Best New reception Site
