It is not everyday that your boss asks you to coordinate her sister-in-law’s Black Butte Ranch wedding. It was such an honour to help bring Courtney and Aaron’s dreams to life and be a part of their amazing day.

Their wedding was chic, stylish, effortlessly elegant, and a ton of fun! Courtney and Aaron chose to focus a long weekend worth of wedding events at Black Butte Ranch where Courtney spent summers and holidays growing up. Courtney’s memories from childhood of watching from the pool deck as brides would sashay down the lawn to their ceremonies were the foundation of her dream of being married at Black Butte Ranch. With spectacular views of the mountains reflected in the lake and sprawling lawns in the sunshine, a more perfect setting would have been hard to find!

Colors and decor were moody, with dark plum and burgundy foliage mixed into the florals with accents of ivory and blush dahlias, tucked in with lush textural elements. The ceremony was held outdoors in the fall sunshine against the backdrop of the lake and mountains, with blankets for guests to cuddle into as the afternoon sun set and the temperature dropped. The aisle between walnut benches was lined with naturalistic grasses and dark foliage that seemed to be growing out of the lawn, with a semi-circle of similar arrangements defining the altar space. Courtney couldn't have been more darling in her fitted gown from Anna's Bridal, showing off her six month baby bump.

The reception was held beneath a tent with strings of cafe lights reflecting their ambiance in the clear canopy, with heaters to keep guests toasty despite the precipitously dropping temperature outside. Long table centerpieces were set in mixed gold and brass vases and surrounded with chunky black pillar candles. Rustic wooden chairs and neutral linen completed the look.

Special highlights of the day included the ceremony processional, with a special arrangement of music performed by a string quartet and sung by the bride’s uncle and cousin, which set the tone for a deeply emotional and personal day. Craft cocktails developed by Aaron (a professional mixologist) were an instant hit and subtly imbued the reception with his personality and style. Lastly, the father of the bride surprised everyone during his speech by singing to Courtney, with her brother jumping on stage to play drums while her uncle and cousin sung backup and played guitar. Not usually a singer, Courtney’s father had spent six months in voice lessons and in trawling karaoke bars to practice! The sweetness of the moment was unparalleled.

It was such a delight to work with Courtney and Aaron and share in the joy of the Sheils family as they grow. Congratulations Aaron and Court -- and cheers to your next adventures!

“Hands down the best decision I made regarding my wedding! I had the time of my life at my wedding in large part due to Bridal Bliss and their flawless planning. From their suggested to vendors to the ease of the entire week before the wedding, I always felt taken care of and never concerned with any potential glitch. I was able to enjoy time with my family and friends without the stress of the wedding details. So thankful for Bridal Bliss!”

— Courtney + Aaron, via Wedding Wire

“Best Wedding I have ever attended. Everything was perfect. Bridal Bliss was a delight to work with. If plans call for an significant wedding in the northwest, you would be missing a opportunity to make yours the best it could be if you do not include Bridal Bliss in your planning!”

— John (Father-of-the-bride), via Wedding Wire

Black Butte Ranch Wedding Vendor Team

Black Butte Ranch Wedding | Courtney + Aaron

Black Butte Ranch Wedding Vendor Team