Thuy + Brian

An Intimate Wedding at Ainsworth House and Gardens

When I first met Thuy and Brian I was struck by how quick to laugh Thuy was and the absolute adoration in Brian’s gaze every time he would look at her. I met them in a little cafe and we instantly clicked while talking about their wedding which was to be at Ainsworth House and Gardens in the summer of 2020.

Ainsworth is such a lovely venue, and I was really excited at the chance to be back photographing in their gorgeous grounds, by their white pillared estate home, and under their giant ceremony tree.

As things in 2020 got a little crazy Brian and Thuy like many couples getting married in 2020 had to downsize their ceremony and switch to an at-home reception but they were still excited and dedicated to have their ceremony at Ainsworth and I felt blessed that I would be one of the few who would be there to celebrate with them.

Arriving at Ainsworth, Dom and I walked around the back to find Brian pull up in the most gorgeous restored Land Rover which was originally Brian’s fathers. I’m a sucker for cool get-away cars so stood there admiring the vibrant blue of the 4X4 which had been returned to its original glory and would be a highlight of the day.

Soon Thuy arrived and I got to work photographing her dress and other details which included some incredible heels and a bouquet which she made herself! Her dress was a gorgeous satin off-the-shoulder cut that was perfected with a cathedral-length veil trimmed in lace which framed Thuy’s silky black curls, pearl necklace, and star-shaped earrings.

We placed Brian for the first look and as Thuy walked up to him the the shady gardens of Ainsworth you could feel the excitement! Turning and seeing his gorgeous bride, Brian’s smile became a beacon of joy as he embraced her in his arms. We enjoyed a few minutes of Bridal Portraits before walking to the ceremony space to get some photos with the full wedding party.

As the ceremony time creeped closer guests began to arrive, and Krystal, the coordinator for Ainsworth, lined up everyone under the ivy tunnel to begin the ceremony. The processional made their way to the platform beneath Ainsworth’s giant pine and as Thuy’s son looped back to escort his stunning mother, Thuy emerged beneath the ivy tunnel an absolute vision to behold.

Their ceremony was officiated by Thuy’s brother in law and dear friend who did an absolutely fantastic job. Their vows were both touching and personal and included promises to love each other even when their favorite sports teams do poorly. :)

They shared their first kiss as a married couple as the sun dances overhead and then escaped to sign the license and make it all official. I got to race up to the upper balcony to snap a photo of all the guests who attended the ceremony and then we spent some time getting family portraits amidst hugs and congratulations for the newlyweds.

After the ceremony we all headed over to Brian and Thuy’s stunning home in Camas where Thuy and her son had blown up hundreds of balloons to decorate and celebrate. An absolute feast of the most incredible food awaited guests as they arrived and Thuy was there to greet each and every one of them, welcoming them in and making them their favorite drink. As everyone relaxed in the backyard, Thuy brought her son’s pet turtle out to sun itself and a 3-month old husky puppy named Tofu pranced around escaping all the hands that tried to give him a little pet. Brian was gifted 4 bottles of his favorite tequila, Don Julio and many of the guests enjoyed celebratory shots throughout the evening. One of Brian and Thuy’s friends made 4 gallons of delicious home-made ice cream to top off the macaroons, cupcakes and other sweets available.

As the evening winded down and I said my good-byes for the night, Thuy send me home with a gigantic box of food and sweets and even gave me one of the goodie-bags intended for her guests which included adorable personalized glasses, what a sweetie!

Brian and Thuy will also be celebrating with a large reception next year at Ainsworth House and in the meantime I can’t wish them enough happiness and love! Check out some images from their celebration below!