“A trend I love is the major focus on tones from nature—neutral whites, pinks, ivory, cream—and simple handcrafted ingredients making up the wedding scene,” says Katie Davis, owner of Ponderosa and Thyme, a floral design studio in Salem. She chose a wedding palette that exemplifies the organic spirit of the Northwest including an emphasis on the handmade for a celebration that’s full of meaning. “Flowers are often the main source of color. When the environment is very restful and easy to enjoy, it creates the perfect backdrop for the people celebrating to be the focus.”
1. (above) Get It in Writing
After her own search for wedding invitations left her disappointed, Portlander Kelsey Carpenter picked up a calligraphy pen and created her own. In 2014, the self-taught artist started her own calligraphy business. Utilizing thick handmade Italian papers, Kelsey Malie Calligraphy’s invitation suites are a study in elegance and simplicity. Handwritten invitation suites start at $13 each with a minimum of 25. Plant-dyed silk ribbon (also on bouquet as stem wrap) from Silk and Willow.
2. True Nature
Known for her bouquets that emphasize texture and rich variations in foliage (this bouquet combines geranium leaves with jasmine and tulips) over showy flowers, Katie Davis of Ponderosa and Thyme has developed a huge following on Instagram with images of her floral creations, as well as the behind-the-scenes look at the magic. Of course, her bouquets are as lovely going down the aisle as they look on the Internet. Plant-dyed silk ribbon wrap from Silk and Willow. Bouquet prices upon request.
3. In the Raw
Handcrafted in Portland from exclusively recycled metals and conflict-free diamonds, By Angeline’s morganite necklace with a halo of raw diamonds and recycled rose gold ($1,495) pairs nicely with the champagne pink topaz and recycled rose gold ring ($735) for an understated wedding-day look.
4. Maid in Heaven
Perfect for a woodsy wedding, Portland Apron Company’s linen pinafore apron can be dressed up with a lace blouse underneath and a flower crown for earthy bridesmaid attire. All of Portland Apron Company’s products are handmade to order in Portland with a variety of organic fabrics to choose from. Prices start at $81.
5. Starting Out
A starter course of soup and bread warms up a crowd on a chilly evening. Portland woodshop Make and Stow creates cutting boards from solid pieces of American black walnut that are hand-sanded and then finished with food-grade conditioning oil. Prices start at $64, and boards can be monogrammed. Ceramic soup mugs by Portland’s Fisherman Nate, $35 each.
6. Bath Salts
Salem homegoods store Wild Poppy creates small-batch vegan beauty products that guests, especially the bridal party, would love to try. Put together a basket of Wild Poppy’s bath soaks with healing Epsom and pink Himalayan salts, body and face oil, and face polish, and tie it all together with a sweet thank-you note. Individual products start at $19. Hand-lettered favor tag by Kelsey Malie Calligraphy.
