Jay & Leilanni’s Wedding at Blockhouse in Portland, OR

Jay and Leilanni’s Wedding at Blockhouse was one of the best days of the year! This couple threw such an elegant wedding right in the heart of Portland, with their friends and family absolutely nailing the all black dress code. J&L had been together for seven years before they tied the knot this November, and they turned up on the day as relaxed and cool as any couple I’d seen.

Leilanni had booked out the penthouse suite at The Heathman Hotel right in the middle of downtown Portland for getting ready, so everything was glamorous from the get-go. When we arrived at the Heathman, Leilanni and her immediate family were well underway in the talented hands of Shantel (makeup) and Stevi (hair). We had such a fun morning capturing them singing and laughing their way into the bride and groom's first look and wedding portraits.

Once everyone was dressed we met up with Jay, his father, father-in-law, and the whole family watched on as the couple shared their first look. A huge shout out to the people of Portland that day - I don’t think I’ve been at a city wedding with so many congratulations given out! Jay and Leilanni however, were so focused on each other, with not a care in the world. It’s always such a pleasure to capture two best friends in these moments, and it always results in amazing photos.

For their ceremony, we headed to Blockhouse. I knew Leilanni wanted a theme that resembled an elevated garden party, and as soon as I read that they were booking the greenhouse in Pomarius Nursery, I knew her dream would come true. They had their ceremony in the evening, which worked so well with the modern romantic decor Caroline (the most brilliant floral designer) and Leilanni had come up with. I love shooting evening weddings - especially when they’re candlelit. It truly can feel like something out of a fairytale when you capture a room lit with candles, and it reminded me of Mikalah & Bank’s wedding a few winters ago.

After a beautiful ceremony, a fantastic meal and some stunning speeches, the party really got started. Cocktails were flowing all night, and the Blockhouse shifted from a romantic and beautiful garden party into what felt like one of the coolest bars in the city as our amazing couple shared champagne, cake and laughter with their friends and family.

What is Blockhouse?

Blockhouse is a wedding venue, with a charming indoor bar area and stunning greenhouse tucked right in the middle of the Pomarius Nursery, a beautiful hidden garden right in the depths of Portland, just north of downtown. It’s one of my favorite Portland wedding venues, and makes you feel like you’re in a secret oasis within the concrete jungle of the city. It’s got a capacity of 60 seated, standing of 75, and up to 120 if you add in the Pomarius Nursery Orangerie.

The rental rate according to their website includes “a standard 12 hour rental (between 6am – 12am), the set up and breakdown of Blockhouse’s inventory, a Blockhouse team member on site the entire event, surround sound and a chef inspired kitchen”.

Where is Blockhouse?

Blockhouse is located near the Pearl District, just north of Downtown Portland, inside of Pomarius Nursery.
Blockhouse, 988 NW 18th Ave, Portland, OR 97209.

Wedding Photo Examples From Blockhouse:

What Vendors Did Leilanni & Jay Use for Their Blockhouse Wedding?

Florals: @carolinereusenflowers
Venue: @blockhousepdx & @pomariusnursery
Planing: @yourperfectbridesmaid
Makeup: @shantillyartistry
Hair: @stevithehairwitch
DJ: @stumptowndjs
Catering: @pearlcateringpdx
Photobooth: @theoriginalphotobooth
Signage: @courting_design
Stationary: @enoracreativeco
Dress: @aandbe_portland

Are You Ready to Plan Your Blockhouse Wedding in Portland, OR?

Sarah Olivia Photo: Preferred Blockhouse Wedding Photographer

Hi there! I’m Sarah, a Portland wedding photographer specializing in Oregon and destination wedding and elopement photography. I absolutely love working in Portland and it would be my joy to document your wedding day memories! Want to get in touch? Contact me here!