mission mill photographer

Salem Oregon Wedding Photographer - Willamette Heritage Center Nuptials

Anna & Ken were technically married a year prior to this, at an intimate elopement (which I was also fortunate enough to photograph) at Deepwood Estate. See, their original plan was to get married at the Willamette Heritage Center (aka Mission Mill), but a breast cancer diagnosis for Anna changed their plans. Rather than have their big wedding, right in the middle of chemo, they opted for a small elopement and then celebrated at Mission Mill a year later! (update: Anna is doing great!)

This was my first time shooting at this venue and I have to say… I loved it! I’d be more than happy to shoot at this venue again! They had the whole third floor reserved, which was nice and spacious for both their ceremony and their reception. The natural light indoors is fantastic and the grounds have lots little spots for portraits.

The bride and groom opted for a first look, for both their elopement and for this wedding. I’m a big fan of first looks because it makes timelines a little easier and it means less time away from the reception. The spot they chose was perfect!

Due to illness, Anna’s father wasn’t able to attend this celebration, although he was able to watch it on a live video feed. Because of this, and because they were already married, it just made sense for the couple to walk down the aisle together. Side note: I love the shot, where Anna is crying (but, also laughing at the same time), while her mom and husband both laugh at her.

After the ceremony, we did some quick portraits outside. Have I mentioned how great this venue is for portraits? Anyway, after some photos, they joined their family and friends back inside, for their reception.