I've been planning weddings professionally for seventeen years now, and Michelle + Eddy's wedding was definitely a highlight. Not because we filled the ceiling of Portland Art Museum's Grand Ballroom with floral and chandeliers, or the epic escort card wall, or the chic ceremony in a round, or the top-of-the-line wine pairings or a full bar made of flowers, or even the surprise after-party. But mostly because Michelle + Eddy were dream clients.

The weekend began with an art deco welcome party at Barlow. Guests, whom had flown in from all over the world, mingled and enjoyed heavy apps and hand-picked signature cocktails to kick off the weekend.

We hit it off from the beginning and I'm certain I've made lifelong friends. This couple is hysterically funny and thoughtful, they wanted to give their guests an over-the-top experience and trusted in the professionals they hired. Plus, they have such a special love story and the way Eddy looks at Michelle is #couplegoals.

These two have been an item for 20+ years and decided to finally make it official with the event of a lifetime. Their ceremony, which was preceded by a Ketubah signing and first look in the Nancy Tonkin Gallery (named after Eddy's mom!), was so personal and thoughtfully planned.

The processional music was played by Ariel Consort with whom Eddy worked with to create a unique arrangement of Somewhere in Time. The beautiful bride walked down the aisle right as the song crescendoed and took all the guest's breathe away. My favorite part of the ceremony was when Eddy presented Michelle with a Baccarat heart he bought years ago, before the two were an item. It had been locked away and he had hoped to be able to gift it to the woman who "held his heart" one day. Feb 16, 2019 was that day. There was not a dry eye in the house!

Post-ceremony, guests headed up to the Grand Ballroom where they found their escort card (that wall.... a pain to perfect but soooo worth it!), and stopped in their tracks as they entered the ballroom. The room was gorgeous! We rented every chandelier in the city, as well as extra truss to bring the ballroom in with draped side walls.

The reception design began with Eddy's vision of a floral filled ceiling. He wanted it romantic and stunning, a true showstopper. It evolved into floral garlands with sparkling chandeliers filling the space. The color scheme was "velvet." Not a color, I realize, but when you think of it you truly think of our aesthetic! Deep, sumptuous jewel tones. With linens in a deep purple velvet and centerpieces coordinating with the installations, it flowed together seamlessly.

Each setting was adorned with a fresh gardenia and silk ribbon hand calligraphed with each guest's name, to serve as their place card. When guests pulled their napkin, their menu was visible on their glass charger, which was also meticulously done by hand.

Their Russian style dinner service by Art of Catering concluded with wardrobe changes for both the bride and groom, heartwarming toasts from their children and grandchildren and then a dance party with The Essentials Band! Guests enjoyed late night treats, a phone charging station, fab photos by Vanity Portrait Studio, funny signs in the bathrooms, and of course an open bar.

While dancing was underway, we were finishing up flipping the Sunken Ballroom from ceremony to swanky late-night lounge. Guests were surprised with phase three of the event... after party! We brought in soft seating from Classic Vintage Rentals, DJ Evil One kept the dance floor packed and we had to bring in boozy milkshakes and Eddy's favorite... Fire on the Mountain buffalo wings!

Guests went home with full bellies, tired feet and happy hearts. When valet pulled up their car, they saw a personalized box of chocolate waiting for them to enjoy on the way home. Truly no detail was overlooked for this event and Michelle, Eddy and I had so much fun throughout planning trying to one-up each other with creative and unique ideas.

The day was perfection. Michelle + Eddy, thank you for allowing me to take part and collaborate with you on such a special day in your lives. It truly brought me so much joy, and I wish you both nothing but the best! See you soon.

XOXO, Nora

Michelle + Eddy decked out the Portland Art Museum in floral garlands and chandeliers. This Oregon / Pacific Northwest epic event was one for the books! Chec...

Uploaded by Duran Creative on 2019-02-19.