An Elegant Wedding At The Columbia George Hotel In Hood River, Oregon

Justin Nichols (33 and a professional systems analyst) and Virginia Espinoza (33 and a professional dental hygienist) met in middle school and remained friends for several years before dating. "We stayed in touch throughout college and after," Virginia says. "We never lost touch, we only grew to be better friends until we both realized that maybe we could be more. It took a while to get over some fears and inhibitions, but we are both very happy we did." The couple chose to have their ceremony and reception at the Columbia George Hotel in Hood River, Oregon because it had spectacular grounds but could also comfortably host an indoor affair if the weather was unpredictable. "Being from Oregon, you have to be prepared for rain at any given time," Virginia says. Their wedding day style was inspired by the vintage feel of the Columbia George Hotel. They incorporated rich purples and oranges (the bride's favorite colors) as well as touches of black and gold. To add a more personal touch to their decor, Justin and Virginia made homemade jam in assorted flavors with local Oregon fruit and placed it in small jars with a ribbon marking their wedding date and punny love-themed phrases like "spread the love."Virginia says the most memorable moment of the day was the couple's one-year-old son coming down the aisle at their outdoor ceremony. "He was dressed in suit similar to his dad's and was cute as can be," she says. "He definitely stole the show."