Chandler and Ryann's wedding took place on Chandler's family property, a location close to their hearts. It holds special significance as the place where Chandler's older brother passed away, now serving as his memorial site. The prominent tree in the ceremony photos was planted in his brother's memory and has weathered two major floods. Choosing this venue was a heartfelt decision to ensure his presence on their August wedding day. The significance of the location added a unique touch to their elegant celebration, with Ryann's attention to detail shining throughout the day.
I've known Chandler since middle school and have been keeping up with him and his sisters on social media over the years. In 2022, I had the pleasure of shooting a wedding in Summerville, OR, where they were guests. Shortly after that, Chandler and Ryann visited Boise, and with the help of his sister Micah (who later became a bridesmaid), he crafted a special proposal. A few days after that, Ryann reached out to book their wedding! She mentioned she had been following my photography for a while and, having seen me at their friends' wedding a few weeks earlier, knew she wanted me to capture her wedding whenever that might happen.
MEMORABLE MOMENTS FOR AN EMOTIONAL AUGUST WEDDING DAY
I might get a bit teary-eyed writing this because it's genuinely touching, but there wasn't a dry eye in the house during Chandler and Ryann's ceremony – including mine. With less than a year of engagement, Chandler, his father, and a crew of family and friends poured their hearts into renovating his brother's memorial site. This dedication allowed the couple to exchange vows against this sentimental backdrop, making the ceremony even more special.
The Fortunes have faced more than their fair share of loss, and you could sense the deep significance of this spot for everyone, especially witnessing Chandler marry his wife there. It was emotional, yet incredibly beautiful, to see these two families come together, showing love and support not just for Chandler and Ryann but also for acknowledging the family's pain. Despite that, there was an evident effort to infuse positive feelings and create new, uplifting memories.
The first look with Ryann's dad was a real tearjerker – he's the type who insists he doesn't cry, but that changed the moment he read the handkerchief. Waterworks all around! And can we talk about the cocktail hour? Instead of the usual signature cocktails, they went for a mashtini bar, which was just so them. It was unique – I haven't seen anything like it at other weddings I've been to.
AN INTIMATE BACKYARD WEDDING CEREMONY IN OREGON
It rained until the ceremony started, then miraculously stopped as Chandler, his mom, and dad walked down the aisle. Chandler's first look at Ryann walking down with her dad was a real moment—she was trying not to cry but couldn't hide her huge smile. Ryann's big on giving thoughtful gifts and had her dad, mom, and bonus mom tearing up. The emotions stayed high all day, and love was everywhere.
That white car you see was Chandler's late grandfather's, now owned by his aunt. Ryann rode in it to the ceremony and walked down the aisle with her dad, shedding tears the whole way. It was a day full of genuine and emotional moments that will stick with everyone.
VENDORS
Photography | Sydney Nichole Photography
Wedding Planner | Events By Edz
Dress | Blueberry Bridal Boutique
Florals | My Garden Over Floweth
Rentals | Sandy's U Rent, Bennett Rentals, Walla Walla Table Company
Portable Restrooms | Regal Restrooms
