Getting Ready at the Woodlark Hotel

I recently got the chance to shoot getting ready photos at the Woodlark Hotel, and let me tell you, it's like stepping into a time capsule of glam and history right in the heart of downtown.

The Woodlark is all about that effortless cool mixed with a dash of old-school charm. The place is a mashup of two historic buildings that scream luxury and cinematic vibes. You know it's fancy when you're standing in a lobby with a ceiling that's basically a work of art, a French mansard roof, and masonry that's been handcrafted to perfection.

Now, let's talk history. The Woodlark used to be the Cornelius Hotel, aka the "House of Welcome" in the roaring '20s. And guess what? That vintage vibe is still alive and kicking, thanks to its iconic sign that welcomes you like an old friend.

But let's not forget about the Abigail Hall – formerly known as the "Ladies Reception Hall." This spot, now a high-tea and cocktail bar, is like a nod to Abigail Scott Duniway, a total trailblazer who was the first woman to cast a vote in Oregon. The place is decked out with a cool mural, a fireplace that's basically Instagram gold, and walls that have seen some serious history.

As a photographer, every nook and cranny of the Woodlark was like a visual feast for my camera. From the classic vibes in the lobby to the sleek beauty of Abigail Hall, this hotel nails the perfect combo of old-school charm and modern luxury.

Ceremony and Reception at Cooper's Hall

Nestled in the Industrial District of SE Portland, Cooper's Hall is not just a winery; it's an urban haven for weddings that range from intimate to boisterous, from understated to elaborate.

The venue boasts two distinct event spaces to choose from, each offering its own unique charm. The flagship urban winery, COOPERS HALL, situated in the Industrial District of SE Portland, sets the stage for ceremonies accommodating 120 to 150 guests. The spacious venue can host a seated reception for up to 180 guests and a standing reception for 225.

One of the standout features of Cooper's Hall is the attention to detail and the commitment to making every wedding day truly unforgettable. The team of highly skilled event and service industry professionals ensures that every aspect of the celebration, from the venue itself to the food, beverage, and hospitality, exceeds expectations.

What sets Cooper's Hall apart is their dedication to personalizing the experience for each couple. All ceremonies come with a walk-through rehearsal 1-2 days prior to the big day, ensuring that everything runs seamlessly. It's a thoughtful touch that speaks to their commitment to creating stress-free and memorable occasions.

Couples tying the knot at Cooper's Hall are also treated to a special food and wine tasting 2-6 weeks prior to their wedding date. This allows them to curate their ideal culinary experience from the farm-to-table menu, choose from a diverse selection at the full-service bar, and explore the tap wine offerings. It's an opportunity for couples to infuse their personality and taste into every aspect of the celebration.

It's worth noting that ceremonies and receptions at Cooper's Hall require a professional day-of coordinator on site during the event, emphasizing the venue's commitment to ensuring every detail is flawlessly executed. For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, basic in-house coordination is available upon request for an additional fee.

Special Guest

During the reception a very special guest showed up, Portland's own Damian Lilliard! Before being traded to the Bucks, Lilliard was a staple of the Portland community, regularly appearing at events around town. The DJ had spent time with Damian in the past and invited him to come to the reception. The crows went NUTS when he walked throgh the door and the groom was absolutely stunned.