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Hi, I'm Taylor.

Taylor is a wedding and elopement photographer traveling worldwide. Documenting one-of-a-kind love stories through a tailored experience.

@taylordenton

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Romantic Wedding at The Ruins at the Astor

There are some weddings that you know are extra special, and that’s exactly how I felt getting to capture Brooke and Leigh’s big day at The Ruins at the Astor! Not only was everything about their wedding so thoughtful and beautiful, but the venue seriously blew me away. Keep reading to learn why.

All the Special Moments in Brooke and Leigh’s Wedding

After capturing Brooke and Leigh’s Moody Columbia River Gorge engagement, I was so excited to reunite with them for their wedding at The Ruins at the Astor! After Brooke got ready, she had an intimate first look with her bridesmaids. It was such a special moment that I seriously loved! She and Leigh then had their first look in the mezzanine and walked around the venue getting photographed together. I loved exploring with the couple and shooting them against all the interesting backdrops! The wedding party soon joined for more pictures.

Next was Brooke and Leigh’s ceremony, which actually featured two officiants who both were in their wedding party! I thought that this was such a special touch. They also had the sweetest handwritten vows and tears were definitely shed. After the ceremony, I took a few family photos before sneaking the couple away so they could sign their marriage license and share a cake cutting with just the two of them. This moment was seriously one of my favorites of the entire day, it was so intimate and beautiful! Their grand entrance came after, followed by dinner, speeches, and their first dance with the other married couples. As the sun set, I took the couple outside for gorgeous sunset photos in the streets of Astoria and at the river walk. Finally, they spent the rest of the night celebrating and partying with their loved ones.

The Ruins at the Astor: One of Oregon’s Most Unique Venues

The Ruins at the Astor is seriously one of the most cool and unique venues I’ve visited. With a seating capacity of 150 guests (250 max), this space is perfect for small to medium-sized weddings. Here are a few of my favorite things about it!

Unique Architecture

The Ruins at the Astor’s architectural design is absolutely stunning! There are so many intricate details that harken back to a bygone era, including gorgeous crown moulding and many Gothic Revival architectural touches. In its mezzanine, you’ll find eight columns surrounding the main gathering space and a wall of windows behind the low-profile stage, filling the room with tons of natural light. It’s seriously one of the most interesting and eye-catching venues I’ve ever seen!

Historical Charm

First built in 1921, there were grand visions of this hotel to be the tallest building in Oregon. However, after decades of natural disasters and economic crashes, it was ultimately condemned in 1968. It continued to decay until 2008 when its current owner began the process of revitalizing the property. Nowadays, it’s a hotspot for both tourists and locals alike!

The Charming Waterfront Town of Astoria

The Ruins at the Astor is located in Astoria, one of the best small towns in the entire state! This charming village is located on the Columbia River just a few miles from the Pacific Ocean, so you KNOW that the views and outdoor recreation opportunities are incredible. There are also so many cute boutiques and restaurants to check out, as well as the Oregon Film Museum! Astoria is such a relaxed and idyllic little town that’s perfect for your wedding.

Brooke and Leigh’s wedding at The Ruins at the Astor was a highlight of my year! To learn more about another of my favorite venues, check out my blog featuring The Griffin House! And before you book your wedding photographer, read my blog on 8 Important Questions to Ask!