Laurel + Chris | Bend, OR

Love, Laughter & WSU Pride at Laurel & Chris’s Bend Wedding

Laurel and Chris’s wedding was the kind of day that felt completely personal—set on the property where Laurel grew up, surrounded by Junipers, Cascade Mountain views, and a whole lot of love. From start to finish, it was the perfect reflection of who they are: down-to-earth, joyful, and deeply connected to the people and places that matter most to them.

Held at a private property in Bend, Oregon, their wedding brought together family, friends, and one unexpected guest—WSU’s very own mascot, Butch T. Cougar. It was the kind of wedding you don’t forget, filled with laughter, surprises, and a whole lot of smiles.

Six aerial photos show a diverse housing development surrounded by rolling green hills and pine trees.

Getting Ready AT HOME

Laurel got ready in the main house where she grew up, while Chris and his crew got ready in the other home on the property. The energy was relaxed and happy—friends catching up, family helping with last touches, and excitement building with each passing hour.

One moment I won’t forget: Laurel’s mom had always pictured a photo of her daughter walking down the staircase in her wedding dress. That vision came to life, and I felt so lucky to be there to capture it for their family. It was simple, emotional, and everything you’d hope it would be.

Laurel’s dress was stunning. The fabric was soft and flowing, and it fit her like it was made for her—form-fitting in all the right places, but light and airy enough to catch the breeze perfectly. You could tell she felt like herself in it, and it showed in every photo.

First Look + Photos

Before the ceremony, Laurel and Chris shared a private first look—just the two of them, no onlookers, no distractions. When Chris turned around and saw Laurel for the first time, his face lit up in the best way. That kind of moment is why I love what I do.

They also exchanged small, personal gifts—tokens that reflected their relationship and everything they’d built together. It was quiet, meaningful, and full of excitement for what was about to come.

Afterward, we rolled into wedding party and family photos. The group brought great energy and made everything feel easy. It was a fun mix of laughter, great light, and the kind of teamwork that makes photos run smoothly and naturally.

The Ceremony

The ceremony took place out in the open pasture on Laurel’s family’s land, facing west toward the mountains. The wind rolled across the property and danced with Laurel’s gown and the beautiful arch behind her—both moving just enough to give the moment an extra bit of magic.

Their ceremony had a perfect balance of personality and heart. Along with their wedding party and ring bearer, they included a “beer boy”—a friend who walked down the aisle with a basket, handing out cold beers to guests just before Laurel made her entrance. It was unexpected, hilarious, and such a hit.

The ceremony was informal, heartfelt, and full of personality. With no big production or overly staged moments, it gave everyone space to be present and take it all in. It was just the right kind of quiet, personal moment before the party kicked off.

cocktail hour & Reception highlights

The reception kicked off just north of the main house, where guests gathered around a long crescent-moon-shaped dinner table that fit everyone in one beautiful, shared space. The layout was thoughtful and inviting, the yard felt alive with conversation, and dinner was a hit.

Dinner was catered by the amazing team at Bleu Bite. Nick, Nicole, Abby, Karen, and Pat were not only professional—they were a joy to work with. Pat, the bartender, kept everyone laughing and the drinks flowing. The meal was beautifully presented and full of flavor. Guests raved about the food all night long, and it added so much to the relaxed, thoughtful feel of the evening.

But the biggest surprise? Butch T. Cougar, the official Washington State University mascot, crashed the party right after the first dances. The WSU fight song blasted, and suddenly there he was—dancing, taking selfies, and even challenging the bride to an arm wrestling match (which she won, of course). I’ve never seen anything like it at a wedding—and it was awesome.

Sunset in the field

At sunset, we headed back to the same field where Laurel and Chris said “I do” for a fun sunset portrait session—and it did not disappoint. The light was golden, the breeze was soft, and Laurel and Chris were just glowing.

They laughed, held each other, and soaked in the moment. The vibe was playful and romantic, with no pressure to pose or perform. We even captured an incredible drone shot that still gives me chills—an epic image from a wedding full of real, grounded beauty.

Ending on a high note

This day was everything Laurel and Chris wanted—laid-back, personal, and full of the people who matter most. From exchanging quiet gifts during their first look to a sunset portrait session that felt like pure magic, their wedding was grounded from beginning to end.

And once dinner wrapped, the dance floor came alive. DJ Royale kept the energy high all night long. The music was spot on—fun, upbeat, and impossible to sit through. Everyone got involved. From family members to longtime friends, the whole crowd was on their feet celebrating. It was the kind of night where no one wanted it to end—and honestly, it didn’t feel like it did. Just a perfect, unforgettable day in Bend, Oregon.