Love at First Site: A Dream Wedding Day On The Grounds Of The Historic Columbia Gorge Hotel and Spa

Emily Barghigiani and Charlie Findeisen said their “I do’s” in a magical cliffside ceremony above the Columbia River, accompanied by the awesome roar of the 208-foot waterfall, on the grounds of the historic Columbia Gorge Hotel and Spa. “We knew from the moment we walked the grounds it was the place we wanted to have our wedding,” says Emily. Guests took in breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area during the ceremony and of the waterfall during cocktail hour, all while enjoying the beauty of the hotel’s lushly landscaped grounds.

Emily had never considered wearing a long veil, but after trying one on with her dress, she fell in love with the look. Throughout the evening, the wind would catch her veil and send it gliding into the air, which made for particularly enchanting photographs. For each reception table number, there were photos of Emily and Charlie at the corresponding age for guests to enjoy and reminisce over. A side table featured framed photos of the couple’s parents and grandparents on their wedding days. “They were charming, and our guests had fun seeing our families’ different generations,” says Emily.