Brittany and Cory’s Wedding, Sunkissed at The Seaview Manor

jrickeyEvent Planning

A Home Meant to Be Shared 

The Seaview Manor will always hold a special place in my event planner’s heart as it was the site of my business’s first West Coast wedding.

When Brittany and Cory connected with me to assist with their wedding day plans at The Seaview Manor, I was overjoyed to bring their plans together at the historic home.

Located between the magnificent Cape Disappointment State Park and the towns of Ilwaco and Seaview, Washington, the Manor provides a magical backdrop for weddings, retreats, family reunions, and gatherings with loved ones near the beach.

Wedding day ready at The Seaview Manor Photos, Jessica Heriot Photography

The Seaview Manor offers a charming destination for your next visit to the Southwest Washington Coast. The property offers six thoughtfully designed bedrooms, a formal dining room, a full kitchen, a wrapped porch, and cozy nooks at every turn

Brittany and Cory were such a lovely couple to plan alongside. Through our collaboration, we arranged a plan to highlight the natural surrounding beauty and features of the Seaview during key moments of their wedding day

Dream Team Assemble

To help bring Brittany & Cory’s wedding plans together, J. Rickey Events joined a dream team of PNW event professionals for a smooth and memorable wedding day.

Congrats Brittany & Cory! Photo, Jessica Heriot Photography

Bloomin Crazy Floral adorned the Seaview’s wooden ceremony arch and provided arrangements using a classic combination of elegant cream, white, and green florals with pops of deep berry tones. Greenery garlands were hung on Seaview’s balcony along with green vines from the reception tent adding a soft touch of romance at every angle.

Love Italian Style

Timeless and romantic styling was weaved into the details as a nod to the couple’s honeymoon destination in Italy. Guests were greeted at a welcome table set with a Great Escapes Italy guestbook and a signature wedding day scent courtesy of Cloudy Day Candle Company with sparkling beverages. Pine and Seed Paper of Astoria created a custom watercolor welcome sign doubling as a keepsake for the couple.

The couple’s two dogs, Sadie and Bailey helped lead the way for the ceremony procession set against The Seaview’s forested landscape. Following the couple’s vows, guests gathered on the wrapped porch of the home for cocktail hour with drinks arranged by King Tide Mobile Beverage Co.

Sage Bleu Catering created an Italian-inspired menu featuring a lasagna Bolognese and Orecchiette pasta with pesto (insert Chef’s kiss here).

Classic, romantic styling for Brittany & Cory’s Reception by J. Rickey Events. Photos by Jessica Heriot Photography

Under the reception tent, guest tables were set with custom watercolor place cards by Pine and Seed, ivory linens, and gold velvet napkins with herb and green sprig embellishments. A soft sunset glow filled the tent as guests enjoyed dinner.

Brandon with Synergy Events encouraged friends and family to the dance floor to keep the celebration going.

Meet me by the Sweets

Guests were welcomed to the Seaview’s formal dining room for a dessert station of panna cotta, lemon bars, cookies, and a slow-roasted strawberry and carrot wedding cake from Gathered Bakeshop.   

Guests enjoyed desserts by Gathered Bakeshop with a thoughtful drink menu by King Tide Mobile Beverage Co. Photos, Jessica Heriot Photography

The Love Remains

Once the music stopped and vendors packed out, family and guests staying at the property gathered in the Seaview’s Living Room near the fireplace. Seeing the couple relax with their loved ones and sharing happy moments from the day is always one of my favorite parts of planning at the Seaview Manor.

The party may be over, but the love remains with an abundance of adventure on the horizon.

Congrats and cheers to Brittany & Cory!

Photos by Jessica Heriot Photography

Wedding Vendor Dream Team:
Bakery: Gathered Bakeshop
Beverage and Bar: King Tide Mobile Beverage Co.
Catering: Sage Bleu Catering
DJ/Emcee: Synergy Events
Floral: Bloomin Crazy Floral
Hair & Makeup Artist Alyssa Underwood
Makeup Artist: Dani Stevens Skincare
Photography: Jessica Heriot Photography
Planning & Design: J. Rickey Events
Rentals & Tent: Specialty Rents
Venue: Seaview Manor
Videographer: Sound Originals
Watercolor Signage and Placecards: Pine and Seed Paper

Emily & Trevor’s Wedding, A Story of Reroutes, Rainbows and Ranunculus

jrickeyEvent Planning

Somewhere over The Megler…

With less than two months till their wedding day, Emily & Trevor received the unexpected news that no engaged couple wants to hear as plans are coming together.  An unforeseen construction issue was canceling their Astoria wedding venue plans, and we had to start from square one to find a new location.

Following a few internal screams and some quick thinking, we swiftly rerouted the initial plans and landed safely over The Megler Bridge at the Historic Chinook School Community Building and Event Center, in Chinook, Washington.

Managed by the Chinook Community and located on the Long Beach Peninsula, WA, The Historic Chinook Event Center offers a welcomed list of onsite amenities. My wedding planner’s heart beamed over the impeccable state of the venue, clean and equipped with a full-service kitchen, tables, chairs, overhead lighting, theatrical stage, professional sound system, restrooms for a large group, and ADA accessibility. As a bonus, a green room is available behind the stage with garment racks, vanity bulbs, and natural lighting for an ideal get-ready space.

A weekend rental allows for a relaxed setup and the opportunity to pick up a few items following the wedding day.

A Family Effort
With April showers in full effect, we once again had to reroute Emily & Trevor’s outdoor ceremony plans. The Historic School Building provided us with a charming last-minute wedding ceremony space.

Along with the help of their encouraging friends and family, Emily and Trevor navigated through the big changes of the wedding weekend with grace and a sense of humor.

Emily’s sister arranged floral bud vases with peach and orange-hued roses and ranunculus to arrange down the guest tables.

The bride’s cousin and local Astoria, Oregon artist, Autumn Eve Montgomery Hurd added creative touches to the wedding with hand-lettered welcome signage, a selfie mirror, and a bold ceremony backdrop.

 

Exploring the Wild Long Beach Peninsula
The couple snuck away for a few photos together at the nearby Chinook Park. With a spectacular view of where the Columbia River meets the Pacific, the quiet park provides an unmatched photo backdrop.

Once again, the weather swiftly shifted plans, but Emily & Trevor’s wedding day smiles endured.

A surprise rainbow appeared just after their ceremony adding to the magic of the day (my wedding planning heart once again nodding in approval over the unexpected…yes, of course I ordered that rainbow and it arrived just in time).

A few other destinations for guests to explore during a visit to the Long Beach Peninsula include the Port of Ilwaco, Cape Disappointment State Park, and Oysterville Sea Farms for a weekend full of adventures.

A Very Astoria Affair
With Trevor’s connection to the brewing industry and Emily’s background in bartending, crafting a wedding day bar menu was a priority. King Tide Mobile Beverage Co. arranged a thoughtful bar menu featuring local Astoria breweries and signature cocktails, a Blood Orange French 75, and Old-Fashioneds.

Astoria, Oregon Chef, Evan with That Food Cart designed a flavorful BBQ Dinner Menu with beef brisket, BBQ pulled pork, collard greens, mac & cheese, baked beans, apple slaw and fresh fruit salad.

Following dinner, Emily & Trevor cut a classic custom cake by Gathered Bakes of Astoria adorned with orange and rust flowers and polaroid cake toppers. The bride’s aunt arranged a full coffee station with signature blend favor bags by Columbia River Coffee Roaster.

Weathering the Wedding Planning Process
An experienced wedding planner will do their very best to avoid major wedding day disruptions but sometimes, they are inevitable, and here on the Coast may be caused by an undeniable force of nature.

Working with Emily and Trevor I was grateful for their welcomeness to consider different paths during the planning process. Plans will always come together and when we work together I’m ready to provide a plan B, C, D and beyond as needed.

Overcoming major wedding day obstacles makes those wedding day smiles even more triumphant.

As your trusted planner I’m here for it all, the rainbows, reroutes, and revisiting ideas till plans come together just right.

Wedding Vendors:
Bakery: Gathered Bakes Astoria
Bar & Beverage: King Tide Mobile Beverage. Co
Catering: That Food Cart
Custom Hand Lettering: Autumn Eve Montgomery Hurd
Photography: Leslie Montgomery Wedding Photography
Planner: J. Rickey Events
Venue: Historic Chinook School & Event Center

Wedding Day at The Tillamook Hydrangea Ranch

jrickeyEvent Planning, Event Styling

Rain & Romance at The Ranch

Love brought the warmth on a rainy day at the flower farm for Laura and Tim’s wedding. The couple opted for a winter wedding held in the Big Barn at The Hydrangea Ranch in Tillamook, Oregon.

Nestled in the secluded Kilchis River Valley, The Hydrangea Ranch provides a unique wedding destination surrounded by the natural beauty of the Oregon Coast

Beauty in the Details

Upon my first visit, I gazed around The Hydrangea Ranch in appreciation for the opportunity to plan at this beautiful PNW wedding destination. The craftsmanship of the venue stood out while I admired the post and beam construction, elk horn chandeliers, stamped concrete, mosaic tiles, and ironwork.

Rustic picnic tables were included with the venue along with an open-sided pavilion, patio, and an outdoor stone fireplace/pizza oven. A large prep kitchen with ample cooler space, onsite restrooms, get-ready space, and adequate electricity made my wedding planner heart content.

The Ranch is also dog friendly and welcomes tent camping and small RVs for wedding guests who want to stay onsite for the full PNW wedding day experience.

Winter Wedding Warmth

Bride, Laura chose a blend of burgundy, mauve, soft pink, and white for her wedding day palette. Dried florals were ordered from River City Flower Farm with unique touches including carved candles and a birchwood ceremony backdrop.

Guests were greeted with a warm beverage bar and led to a ceremony under the outdoor pavilion dotted with heaters. Following the ceremony guests gathered in the Big Barn to celebrate Laura and Tim further with dinner and dancing.

A hearty barbeque dinner complimented their Oregon Coast winter wedding plans. Once the cake was cut, guests enjoyed a strawberry shortcake bar arranged by the Sugar Vault, a sweet addition to the cozy day.

A Secluded Destination for All Occasions

For an unmatched wedding experience on the Oregon Coast, The Hydrangea Ranch is a lovely destination. With some thoughtful planning, a winter wedding at The Ranch can be just as memorable as the summertime months.

Sharing a special thank you to Brandon at Synergy Events for his onsite coordination and lighting to help bring plans together on the wedding day.

Now booking for late summer and fall 2024 weddings, J. Rickey Events can assist you with logistics for a smooth wedding day with design services to compliment the craftsmanship and charming details of The Hydrangea Ranch.

The Ranch is also ideal for family reunions, youth events, community gatherings, corporate team building, and private dinners.

 

 

Why Hire An Event Planner For Your Oregon Coast Event

jrickeyEvent Planning

A Case for Your Local Oregon Coast Event Planner

Following just two years in business as an Oregon Coast event planner, I could write a book of adventures from this quiet corner of the States. There is no shortage of beauty however, the conveniences of the city are out of reach, and managing an event can be challenging without the right plan.

Inviting you to join me as I share a few reasons why hiring an event planner is vital for your next Oregon Coast Event.

Keeping The West Wild
While planning events and weddings at a Cleveland concert hall for several years I faced my share of “wild” events, but the Oregon Coast makes its own definition. Elk herds passing through, landslide road closures, wildfire smoke and thick fog are just a handful of factors that I’ve encountered while managing events on the coast.

An event planner cannot change or predict the natural elements, but they can help you best navigate through the area. Rely on your local event planner to assist with coastal traffic notes, weather events, tide tables and natural challenges.


Out of Service
Imagine securing your Oregon Coast event venue later to find they do not offer a water source for catering and guests. An Oregon Coast planner will address these questions early in the process and help you decide if a venue challenge is a dealbreaker.

A planner will also review service contracts and fine print to be sure you are protected from the predatory vendors of the industry.

Pro Tip:
Remote locations allow for memorable photos but may create challenges for your event. Rely on a planner to find balance and solutions. 


With A Little Help From My Friends
Enlisting a team of trusted event vendors is key for a successful event on the Oregon Coast. The remoteness of the area does not allow room for service providers to be replaced last minute. An event planner will connect you with a reliable and responsive team of vendors and coordinate setup and service efforts.

Creativity flows freely on the Oregon Coast inspiring a community of artists and makers. An event planner can connect you with smaller, local businesses to source unique details and gifts for your event.


So Much More Than Décor
In the search for an event planner to best match your plans, remember that services will vary among businesses. Find an event planner who aligns with your style, values, and areas of focus. On the Oregon Coast, there are planners who specialize in beach locations and others who operate solely at venues, hotels, or private rentals.

Event planners may get pushback for the cost of their services and sometimes be dismissed as being there “just for décor”. Similar to any industry there are planners who care, and those who are there to collect Instagram likes and a check. While decorating may be a part of a planner’s role, the majority of their time is spent behind the scene managing the event logistics, lists, and layouts, and covering all the details needed for a smooth event.


On-Site
Working with a planner helps you to identify missing links in your plans, gaps in service contracts, and how to actualize your plans in real life. They ensure you are not hanging from a ladder or hauling the trash out on your wedding day. We help you identify value in professional event services and can match you with vendors who complement your budget and style.

A planner will lay a  strong framework and flow for your event, they coordinate with vendors and can assist guests upon arrival for a seamless event experience. Consider hiring a professional planner for your next event to help navigate the wild and unwavering spirit of the Oregon Coast.

Wedding night at The Rosebriar Mansion, Astoria OR

J. Rickey Events is a full-service event planning company based in Astoria, Oregon specializing in personalized and creative events, weddings, Oregon Coast Elopements.

Sneaking a photo just before a walk down the aisle at Shively Park. Bride: Dixie Photographer: The Ginger Co., Texas

 

 

Tablescape designed for The Rosebriar Mansion, by J. Rickey Events of Astoria, OR Photo: Megan VanDoran Photography

 

Creativity in Bloom at The Rosebriar Mansion

jrickeyEvent Planning

Celebrating the Talents of Oregon Coast Event Professionals  

After moving to the Oregon Coast two years ago and starting an event business, I often found myself clicking my ruby red slippers and longing for the comforts of my former hometown (you are not in Cleveland anymore). Understanding that successful events come together with the help of a trusted team of industry professionals, I had quite a bit of homework to do in this unique corner of the earth.

While navigating through these growing pains, I’ve been delighted to connect with a group of Oregon Coast event professionals who also share a love of creating fun and memorable occasions.

Garden party inspiration was pulled from the vibrant interior of The Rosebriar Mansion. Megan VanDoran Photography

Welcome to The Rosebriar
As an event planner in the Pacific Northwest, I enjoy working at historic venues as they lend a story to tell. Located in Astoria, Oregon, The Rosebriar Mansion is a charming and artfully designed event space and vacation rental.

The Rosebriar is a lovely venue for small weddings, elopements, private dinners, milestones, and business gatherings. The rental offers access to six guestrooms and a private Carriage House suite.

Throughout the home you will find lush textures, vibrant jewel tones, and a blend of modern and antique accents with décor direction by Vintage Hardware of Astoria…a hint of beauty at every turn.

Owners of The Rosebriar, Trudy and Djordje Citovic recently shared their home with J. Rickey Events and a team of Oregon Coast event professionals for a day of creative collaboration and a garden party open to the community.


Rose Colored Daydreams

To bring our garden party daydreams to life, the creative team enlisted Mia Norlander, owner of Bloomin Crazy Floral. Mia designed the dreamiest florals for the vibrant, garden rose-inspired party. Upon last-minute request, the Bloomin Crazy team also created a climbing garden wall that doubled as a privacy fence with greens sourced from The Flower Stand, Walluski Loop, Astoria.

Bloomin Crazy Floral offers fresh-cut local flowers, plants, gifts, and dazzling arrangements for weddings and milestones.

Artwork of The Rosebriar Mansion, photo Megan VanDoran Photography

 

A garden party tablescape designed by J. Rickey Events with florals by Bloomin Crazy Floral. Watercolor Menu & hand-lettered place cards by Pine & Seed, Linens  BBJ La Tavola (Prarie Black Natural & Faille Latte), Amber Smoke stemware, Estelle Colored Glass, Megan VanDoran Photography
Felt cute! Catering by Sage Bleu Catering, Megan VanDoran Photography

 

Food, But Make It Fashion!
When it comes to offering exceptional food with complimentary style rely on the culinary talents of Lavonne Cimbak of Sage Bleu Catering. Lavonne arranged a food wall set with savory bites that almost flirted with guests from the shelves.

Sage Bleu offers an elegant and custom event experience for Oregon Coast weddings, corporate events, and in-home chef dinners.

To round off the sweeter side of the menu, McKenzie Hammon of Miss Red’s Catering Co shared custom confectionary creations with guests. Based in Tillamook, Oregon Miss Red’s Catering Co adds fun and handcrafted detail to desserts.

Confectionary creations by Miss Red’s Catering Co. Megan VanDoran Photography


A Cup of Cheer

One part professional beverage service and one part charming duo, Sara Kate and Katie Heater of King Tide Mobile Beverage Co. shared an enticing lineup of cocktails and fresh non-alcoholic options for The Rosebriar garden party. King Tide Mobile Beverage offers a hospitality-focused team with a mobile bar and custom drink menus.

Ring bell for fresh squeezed cocktails by King Tide Mobile Beverage Co., Megan VanDoran Photography

A Rare Rose
Guests at the garden party were greeted by the art of Mari and Abigail Nab of Pine & Seed. They are a mother-and-daughter team of artists who offer handmade designs and greeting cards.

Pine & Seed designed a signature watercolor rose for The Rosebriar. The custom rose was featured on the garden party invitation suite, welcome signage, and the menus for a tablescape designed by J. Rickey Events.

Custom watercolor rose in progress by Pine & Seed, Megan VanDoran Photography

Inspired by the fine-lined art of The Rosebriar, the menus, and signage included one-of-a-kind hand lettering and watercolor art by Pine & Seed.

Beyond Essentials
The team at Cannon Beach Party Rentals arranged a champagne wall and hoop arch to add a layer of whimsy to the Rosebriar garden party.

CBPR offers an expanding collection of event rentals including beach setups and custom builds from an in-house craftsman. CBPR provided décor installation and lighting for The Rosebriar garden party. The positive energy of the Cannon Beach Party Rental team always radiates!

The Cannon Beach Party Rentals bubbly wall welcomed guests at The Rosebriar Garden Party, Megan VanDoran Photography

Celebrating Creativity
Blue Collar Astoria offers creative services and goods by small batch makers and artists, matched with the artistic eye of the shop owner, Emily Engdahl. The Rosebriar team sourced a collection of celebration pieces from Blue Collar Astoria including a custom wallpaper for the garden bar.

Consult with Emily at the Blue Collar Astoria shop to fuel your imagination.

In the Spirit of Collaboration
Oregon wedding, elopement, and couples photographer Megan VanDoran Photography joined The Rosebriar Creative team to capture the beautiful details of the day. With her timeless, and natural photography style Megan highlighted the romantic characteristics of the Rosebriar and our collective event offerings.

Inviting you to rely on this creative team of Oregon Coast event professionals to bring thoughtful details and hospitality to your next event.

Step inside the Gazebo Garden Lounge styled with the help of Blue Collar Astoria, Megan VanDoran Photography

Rosebriar Garden Party Event Team 
Bar & Beverage: King Tide Mobile Beverage Co.
Catering: Sage Bleu Catering
Cake & Dessert:  Miss Red’s Catering Co.
Celebration and Styling Pieces: Blue Collar Astoria
Event Styling & Planning: J. Rickey Events
Floral Design: Bloomin Crazy Floral
Local Greenery: The Flower Stand, Walluski Loop Astoria, Oregon
Photography: Megan VanDoran Photography
Rentals: Cannon Beach Party Rentals
Venue: The Rosebriar Mansion

Dinner with a view in Astoria, Oregon at The Rosebriar Mansion, tablescape styled by J. Rickey Events, Megan VanDoran Photography