If there was ever a party to attend before a global pandemic, I think that Shannon and Stefan’s takes the cake. After sitting in my house for months, I thank my lucky stars on the daily that I got to get down with these two right before our quarantine orders hit. I mean, com’on. Just look at ‘em! They are GORG. And that’s only the beginning!
Music Lovers
Shannon and Stefan bonded during the first date when they realized they both sang and played instruments. They even sang each other songs after dinner! I don’t know about you, but that takes some guts if you ask me. Anyway, as the years progressed and their relationship grew stronger, they formed a band. Maybe you’ve heard of them? They’re one of the hottest wedding bands in the PNW - the Sharp Dressed Band. And they sing like rock n’ roll angels.
Serene Bride to Be
I don’t think I’ve ever met a more chill bride than Shannon. On the morning of the wedding, I found her in her hotel room, eating grilled cheese, hanging with her closest friends, and telling jokes with the flower girl. Take a note from Shannon, my friends. Plan well, trust the process, and laugh a lot while it all rolls out!
Getting Ready at the Banana Stand
No that is not a typo. The boys got ready at the ever chic and amazing Banana Stand in Pioneer Square. And boy, did they have a good time getting dressed! Stefan and Shannon knew they wanted every minute of their wedding day to mean something and look fabulous while they were at it. So they decided to ditch the traditional low lit hotel room and opt in for the amazing natural light of a full blown photography studio.
My heart fluttered when I heard the news.
Be silly, be serious, do you
I get it, it’s your wedding day! There’s a lot going on and a lot you want to make sure you’ve got right. But if this blog post can encourage you to do anything on your wedding day, I hope that it encourages you to enjoy every single minute. Have a laugh, loosen up, and then POSE DARLING POSE! And please, by all means take a picture with the stuffed tiger.
The Ceremony
I can honestly say that there are not many wedding ceremonies that make me want to edit the one I had with my husband. But Shannon and Stefan’s ceremony had me tempted! Like everything else that day, the ceremony was planned to the nines with intentionality. They love sailing, so they rung a bell at the end . They wanted to feel like everyone was a part of the ceremony, so they arranged the chairs “in the round”. They wanted a blessing from their friends and family, so they all warmed their rings before exchanging them.
Let’s just say, I cried a lot during this one folks. So much love was had there that night!
Give you Blue
I want you to google Allen Stone’s “Give You Blue” right now. Yes, I will wait. Because in order to get into the vibe of these next photos you need to listen to what I call “Shannon and Stefan’s theme song”. Stefan quoted these lyrics in his vows … and that’s when I truly lost it.
Here’s a little taste:
I can't stop the rain
But I will keep you dry
If the shore feels far away
I'll be by your side
And when the storms arise
I will shelter you
When your sky is gray
I will give you blue
Excuse me … I had to go get kleenex. Back to the party, people!
A Live Concert for the Ages
Obviously since these two are in a band, they know a whole lot of other talented musicians. So instead of playing the ol’ iPod on shuffle, they had a true, real deal concert, with all their best pals signing the hits. I’m telling y’all … it’s true … it was like I was at Bumbershoot or something way better. I can’t make this ‘ish up!
Headliners
The night ended with Shannon and Stefan getting up on stage and closing the night out. So many of their friends and family had never seen them perform, the vibe in the room could have shot us to the mood. We were in the presence of literal rock stars!
Here’s to you two, my friends! I cannot wait until you’re in Seattle again and we can horrible karaoke together. Stay safe and rock on. xo -k.
Vendors:
Second Photographer - Kristin Abigail
Videographer - Alayna Erhart
Wedding Planner - Flying Anchor
Dress: Sarah Seven
Suit: Michael Shi, Houston Tailor, Hong Kong
Rings: Benati Jewelry
Hair: Cameron Kelly
Make up: Chelsey Matley
Venue: Sodo Park
Catering: Herban Feast
Florist: Foothills Flowers