When Cherie Ronning needed a new space to meet with clients for her wedding invitation business, Uncommon Invites (a Best of Bride winner this year), she decided to bring along a few friends. The result is The Wedding Lounge in Northeast Portland, a collective of vendors available to serve brides in one place. You can meet one or several of the Lounge members: AJ’s Studio photography, Hybrid Moon video (and videobooth), florist Kevan Inouye, All Wright Music DJ, La Joconde cakes, Best Car in Town, Barclay Event Rentals, Premiere Catering, Uncommon Invites, Encore Events, A Touch of Aloha, Black Swan Events, and Signature Weddings & Events. If you’re not ready to commit, don’t be shy. The vibrant Lounge has a laid-back vibe and welcomes walk-in brides to ask questions, have a cup of coffee, or simply get inspired. There is a library of wedding books on hand, as well as samples of invitations, linens, china, photographs and fresh flowers to get ideas brewing. The Lounge is neighbors with The Bridal Loft, a wedding collective started in 2001 that offers similar services as well as hair, makeup and a selection of jewelry and hairpieces. Both businesses refer clients to each other and see the proximity as a major plus for harried brides, who can come find over a dozen wedding professionals in one block.
