Some weddings feel like they were plucked straight out of a storybook, and Lydia and Pehr’s wedding at Ainsworth House and Gardens in Oregon City was undoubtedly one of them. Surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of this historic venue, their October 23, 2022, celebration perfectly captured their love, style, and the warmth of autumn.

With the vibrant fall foliage, a ceremony under Ainsworth’s iconic maple tree, and meaningful personal touches, Lydia and Pehr’s wedding showcased why this venue is such a beloved spot for couples in the Pacific Northwest.

Ainsworth House and Gardens: A Perfect Backdrop for Any Wedding

Nestled in the heart of Oregon City, Ainsworth House and Gardens is a venue that combines historic charm with breathtaking outdoor spaces. Dating back to 1851, the estate offers a variety of ceremony and reception options, making it ideal for couples seeking elegance and versatility.

Lydia and Pehr chose to hold their outdoor ceremony on the Maple Tree Lawn, one of the venue’s most iconic locations. The sprawling maple tree created a natural, picturesque canopy for their vows. Even with a drizzle in the air, the couple embraced the magic of the season, showing just how adaptable and enchanting Ainsworth House can be in any weather.

For their reception, the couple moved to the Garden House, an intimate indoor space with expansive windows that allowed their guests to enjoy the beauty of the gardens from the comfort of a cozy, well-lit setting. The combination of lush greenery and autumn hues made every moment feel warm and inviting.

Lydia and Pehr’s Story: From College to Forever

Lydia and Pehr’s love story is one for the books. The two met during their senior year of college and bonded over their shared workspace. Lydia jokes that she “chased after” Pehr, often bringing him candy and looking for reasons to spend time with him. Eventually, she asked him out to coffee, and the rest was history.

After graduation, they navigated the challenges of a long-distance relationship until Lydia landed a job in Portland. Over the years, they built a life together that included their adorable dog, Scout, who made a special appearance at the wedding. Scout was a true star, posing for photos with the couple before heading home for a well-deserved nap after the ceremony.

The Wedding Day Details

Lydia and Pehr’s wedding day was filled with thoughtful touches that reflected their personalities and love story:

• The Ceremony: The couple exchanged vows under the majestic maple tree, surrounded by loved ones. The fall leaves provided a naturally colorful backdrop, complementing the warm tones of Lydia’s bridesmaids’ dresses in varying autumn shades.

• Scout’s Cameo: Scout, their small black dog, was an adorable part of the day, joining the couple for pre-ceremony photos. Capturing these moments added a playful and sentimental touch to their gallery.

• The Reception: The intimate Garden House reception featured heartfelt toasts, delicious food from Flour Power, and desserts by Country Cake Shop, which perfectly captured the warm and cozy atmosphere Lydia and Pehr envisioned.

Why Ainsworth House and Gardens Was the Perfect Venue

1. Stunning Outdoor Ceremony Spaces: The Maple Tree Lawn is ideal for couples dreaming of an outdoor ceremony with a natural, organic feel. Lydia and Pehr embraced the weather, proving the venue’s charm shines in every condition.

2. Versatile Indoor and Outdoor Options: From its sprawling gardens to the elegant Garden House, Ainsworth House provides flexibility for ceremonies, receptions, and photo opportunities.

3. Dog-Friendly Atmosphere: For couples like Lydia and Pehr who want their furry friends to be part of the day, Ainsworth House is a welcoming space for pets.

4. Historic Charm Meets Modern Comfort: The timeless architecture and serene gardens create a one-of-a-kind experience for couples and their guests.

Wedding Vendors Who Brought the Day to Life

Lydia and Pehr’s wedding wouldn’t have been possible without an incredible team of vendors who helped make their vision a reality:

• Florist: My Melissa Coordinating

• Beauty: The Luxe Artists

• Entertainment: Can’t Stop Entertainment

• Caterer: Flour Power

• Dessert: Country Cake Shop

• Venue: Ainsworth House and Gardens

Each vendor played a role in creating a seamless, joyful day for the couple and their guests.

Capturing the Love: A Photographer’s Perspective

As a wedding photographer, Lydia and Pehr’s wedding was a dream to document. Lydia was radiant in every shot, and we worked together to ensure she felt confident and beautiful, with plenty of variety in her bridal portraits. Pehr, ever thoughtful, wanted to ensure they got the best photos possible, and his genuine love for Lydia shone in every image.

One of the highlights of the day was capturing Scout in a few pre-ceremony photos—adding such a fun and personal element to the couple’s story. From the autumnal details to the heartfelt moments, every image tells the story of a wedding day filled with love and laughter.

If you’re planning your wedding and looking for a photographer to capture every meaningful detail, I’d love to help!

Let’s connect and start planning how to preserve your memories in timeless, beautiful photos.