Bastyr Chapel Wedding in Kenmore WA + Russell Loft Reception in Bothell
- 45 minutes ago
- 4 min read
A wedding day in the Pacific Northwest offers a unique blend of natural beauty and refined spaces. This Seattle-area celebration brought together the serene charm of Bastyr Chapel in Kenmore with the lively, intimate atmosphere of Russell Restaurant & Loft in Bothell. The day unfolded with thoughtful timing and meaningful moments, captured through the lens of a Seattle wedding photographer who knows how to balance calm guidance with candid storytelling.
Quick Summary
This wedding featured a heartfelt ceremony at Bastyr Chapel Wedding in Kenmore WA, known for its peaceful setting and graceful architecture, followed by a warm and energetic reception at Russell Restaurant & Loft. The couple’s day was carefully paced, starting with portraits in the afternoon and culminating in a joyful party. The photography captured everything from delicate altar florals to the playful “Volcano cake” detail, all with a natural, refined style.
Bastyr Chapel Wedding in Kenmore WA
Ceremony at Bastyr Chapel
Bastyr Chapel offers a quiet, contemplative space that feels both intimate and spacious. Its architecture blends clean lines with natural materials, creating a backdrop that is elegant without distraction. The soft, filtered light through tall windows highlights the wooden beams and stone accents, setting a calm tone for the ceremony.
The couple’s vows were exchanged in this serene environment, where every quiet moment felt significant. The chapel’s design encourages reflection and connection, making it an ideal setting for couples who want their ceremony to feel deeply personal. The gentle light and peaceful atmosphere allowed the photographer to capture subtle expressions and tender gestures without interruption.
Reception at Russell Restaurant & Loft
The reception moved to Russell Restaurant & Loft in Bothell, a space that balances rustic charm with modern comfort. The loft’s open layout and warm lighting created an inviting atmosphere for guests to relax and celebrate. Details like handcrafted floral arrangements by Stadium Flowers added texture and color, complementing the venue’s natural wood and exposed brick.
The energy shifted from quiet reflection to lively celebration as the evening progressed. Seattle Parties DJ & Live Entertainment kept the dance floor moving, blending classic hits with fresh beats. The space felt intimate yet spacious enough for guests to mingle, dine, and dance comfortably. The “Volcano cake” — a playful and unexpected dessert centerpiece — became a highlight, sparking smiles and conversations.
Timeline Flow
The photography schedule began around 3:00 PM, allowing ample time for portraits before the ceremony at 5:00 PM. This timing supports a relaxed pace, giving the couple and their wedding party moments to connect without feeling rushed. Portraits included individual shots, bridal party group photos, and candid moments that set the tone for the day.
Starting photography well before the ceremony also ensures coverage of important details like rings, florals, and venue setups. After the ceremony, group photos and outdoor portraits (weather permitting) captured the joy of the moment. This flow balances preparation, ceremony, and celebration, providing a comprehensive visual story of the day.
Must-Capture Moments
Certain moments stand out as essential to any Bastyr Chapel wedding and Russell Loft wedding reception:
Close-ups of the wedding rings, symbolizing the day’s commitment
Groom and groomsmen sharing quiet, candid moments before the ceremony
Bridal party portraits that highlight friendships and style
Altar florals arranged by Stadium Flowers, showcasing natural artistry
The lobby setup at Bastyr Chapel, reflecting the couple’s personal touches
Group photos immediately after the ceremony, capturing family and friends
Outdoor photos if the weather allows, taking advantage of the PNW’s greenery
The “Volcano cake” detail at the reception, a unique and playful dessert centerpiece
These moments combine to tell a full story, from intimate details to lively celebrations.
Photography Approach
The photographer’s approach blends calm guidance with unobtrusive storytelling. During portraits, gentle direction helps subjects feel comfortable and natural, avoiding stiff or forced poses. Throughout the day, candid moments are captured as they unfold, preserving genuine emotions and interactions.
Family formals are handled efficiently, respecting guests’ time while ensuring important groupings are documented. This balance allows the day to flow smoothly and keeps the focus on the couple’s experience rather than the logistics of photography.
Light Retouching and Photoshop
Post-processing is done with a light touch, enhancing images while keeping them realistic and true to the day. Retouching focuses on subtle improvements like adjusting exposure, softening shadows, and refining color balance. Photoshop is used sparingly to maintain authenticity, avoiding over-editing or artificial effects.
This approach ensures the photos feel timeless and natural, reflecting the genuine atmosphere of the wedding.
Vendor Shout-Outs
The day’s success was supported by talented vendors who contributed their expertise:
Seattle Parties DJ & Live Entertainment provided music that kept the celebration lively and fun
Stadium Flowers created floral arrangements that enhanced both ceremony and reception spaces
Their work complemented the couple’s vision and the photographer’s storytelling.
Helpful Next Steps
For couples planning a wedding in the Seattle area, exploring photography options is an important step. Learn more about working with a Seattle wedding photographer and available packages:
These resources provide insight into style, pricing, and client experiences.
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