Local Wedding at The Owen Rose Garden & The Graduate Hotel
Debra & Arthur wanted a wedding day that showcased their favorite parts of Eugene. A midsummer ceremony nestled in the Owen Rose Garden followed by a rockin’ reception at the iconic Graduate Hotel - what better places to celebrate their love in Eugene, Oregon?
For Debra & Arthur, their wedding was an opportunity to bring everyone together: their friends both near and far, their siblings, children and grandchildren. Guests flew in from all corners of the country to celebrate. Our photographer Michelle Jackson Photography used a drone to capture some larger group shots during the ceremony, so that the couple could always remember everyone who shared their day with them.
I’ll admit, having a wedding ceremony in one location and the reception in another is a bit daunting from a logistics standpoint. Thankfully we hired Oregon Party Bus and My Party Bus to transport guests from The Graduate Hotel to the Owen Rose Garden, and back again. Parking was limited near the rose garden, and many out-of-town guests were staying at the hotel already, so allowing guests to catch a shuttle from the hotel before the ceremony made the guest experience much better. (This is where having a professional day-of coordinator or wedding planner is a huge blessing! We handle all the logistics so our clients can relax and enjoy their day).
The Graduate Hotel also provided “getting ready” spaces for Debra, Arthur, and their wedding parties. You may have guessed it, but the bridesmaids and groomsmen were all family members of the couple: their siblings, (adult) children, and grandchildren!
Not every modern couple wants to have bridesmaids and groomsmen, but for Debra & Arthur this was an intimate, wonderful way to incorporate their closest family members and ensure they had lots of quality time (and great photos!) with them.
During the wedding reception, the Vistas Ballroom of The Graduate Hotel provided an amazing view of Eugene and the mountains beyond. Debra and Arthur danced the night away with their guests, enjoying both music and a photo booth provided by Rising Phoenix Productions.
After their wedding, Debra wrote me a wonderful review: “Olivia is the best wedding coordinator! She is professional, experienced, and so organized. She is truly passionate about her work. Her mission is to help you create the wedding of your dreams! She has so many ideas, advice and connections to vendors. She is always available if you have questions or concerns… And the very best thing is she is so heartful - she really connected with us with so much caring. We loved everything about her. We highly recommend her for your wedding planning!”
Debra & Arthur, your love is one in a billion. I had so much fun facilitating this awesome day for you and your guests, and I’m a little sad it’s over! Thank you for trusting me as your wedding coordinator. Congratulations, and cheers to your future together!
Vendor Team:
Ceremony Venue: Owen Rose Garden
Getting Ready & Reception Venue: The Graduate Hotel
Photo & Video: MJ’s Photography
DJ & Photobooth: Rising Phoenix Productions
Florals: Chase Flowers & Gifts
Transportation: Oregon Party Bus and My Party Bus
Cake: Market of Choice
Hair & Makeup: Erin Michelle
Rentals: Parties to Go
Assistant Coordinator: Birdie June Events
