On a warm July evening, wedding pros from across the state gathered to celebrate excellence in the industry at the Silver Cloud Hotel Tacoma at Point Ruston Waterfront. With sweeping views of the Puget Sound and a soft summer breeze rolling in, the rooftop deck set the perfect tone for this year’s Best of 2025 celebration.
The evening began with an elevated VIP cocktail hour, featuring luxury caviar tastings by SeaShucked Washington, live violin melodies from Trevor Owens Music and elegant lounge setups from Wander Rentals. VIP guests also received swag bags filled with luxe beauty items from Anaya Spa and Jo Malone. Guests sipped specialty cocktails and nibbled on passed hors d’oeuvres crafted by the venue’s in-house catering team while mingling in front of dreamy installations by On the Wall Design and signature signage by Mango Ink with ice sculpture by Creative Ice. Those in attendance could also commission personalized fashion illustrations from Bowtie and Brush, adding a stylish, memorable touch to the start of the celebration.
The awards ceremony took place inside the hotel’s sky-blue-and-white ballroom, thoughtfully designed and planned by Gian Events. The space was adorned with creamy textured linens and rentals from BBJ La Tavola, floral arrangements by Pollen In Love and ambient lighting and audio by Crimson Haze Event Lighting and modern rentals from CORT Party Rental. Printed pieces and graphics were designed by Mango Ink, tying together the event’s branding with a modern edge.
Music by J Fields took the mic as the night’s dynamic emcee, keeping the energy high and the transitions smooth. Iron Diamond Media CEO Sonja Babich opened the show with warm remarks, followed by presentations from Editorial Director Lara Burnap and Publisher Alexis Sanabria, who presented awards to this year’s standout professionals. Michelle Wight Makeup Artistry ensured presenters looked polished and stage-ready.
Once the formalities wrapped, the celebration continued with an electric performance from Jordan Kahn Music Company, inviting guests to hit the dance floor. The glam bot photo booth from Moment.us offered playful moments and shareable memories, while content creators from Gian Events and BTS by Angela captured every exciting angle in real-time. Ksenia Vasenev Photography documented the event in stills, and Kaneri Films filmed the full scope of the celebration.
For dessert, Suite J Catering delighted guests with a decadent array of cookies, cupcakes, and a stunning cake display—a sweet end to an unforgettable evening along the Tacoma waterfront.
See Washington Wedding Day's opening film here and watch the night unfold with a longer video here, both created by Kaneri Films!
