Llamas, Purple Details, and a Dance Floor That Got Wild


It’s been a long year. Lots of weddings, engagements, and moments to reflect on.

Lauren and Jake’s wedding felt like something coming full circle for me.


I still remember our initial consultation call. It was just a month or two after I went full-time. I was running ads, building out my website, and quietly wondering if I was “good enough” to be the photographer a couple trusted with their wedding day. Long story short, I was nervous.


This was about a year and a half ago. Now I’m writing this with a different kind of confidence, the kind that comes from the immeasurable trust of couples like Lauren and Jake.


They also braved what was (at the time) my rainiest and coldest engagement session ever in the North Cascades. It had that moody, elven-forest vibe that makes you forget you can’t feel your hands. Thankfully their wedding day was nowhere near that rainy, because llamas showing up in a storm would’ve been a lot for my brain to process.


This day had it all. A private ceremony, a public ceremony, rowdy friends, gorgeous details, tears, laughs, jokes, outfit changes, wine, quiet moments, loud moments, hugs, kisses, and a dance floor that genuinely went off.

Elegant wedding invitation suite with white and blue stationery, eucalyptus sprigs, and small white roses on gray background.

Why Novelty Hill-Januik Winery is Such a Great Woodinville Wedding Venue


If you’re planning a Woodinville winery wedding, Novelty Hill-Januik Winery is one of those venues that works beautifully for both the experience and the photos.


From a photography standpoint, it’s a dream because you get:

  • Clean modern-industrial lines (concrete walls, sharp corners, strong shapes)
  • An industrial-style garden area that makes portraits feel editorial without being stiff
  • Enough variety on-site that portraits stay efficient, which means more time with guests and less time disappearing


Getting Ready and the Details that Actually Mattered


We started with getting ready coverage. Calm moments, energy building, friends hyping Jake up, and lots of laughter.


One of the most meaningful parts of the day was how Lauren and Jake honored Jake’s late mother with purple details:

A purple diamond in Jake’s ring

Purple flowers placed on a memorial chair


I love when couples do this in a way that feels intentional and personal. It becomes part of the story your photos tell forever.


This wedding was photographed by me plus a second photographer. That mattered a lot for storytelling. We could capture more real moments happening at the same time and keep coverage feeling full, not rushed.

Modern wooden window frames and siding accent a contemporary home exterior with lush green foliage in the background.
Elegant wedding invitation suite with dusty blue envelopes and white dried flowers on a neutral linen background.
A collection of delicate purple and white gladiolus flowers arranged in a repeating pattern along a horizontal line.
Close-up view of a sparkling diamond engagement ring with delicate purple accents and jewelry details.
White daisy flowers scattered among silver and gold wristwatches on a dark background create an elegant product display.
A row of elegant silver and lavender bridesmaid shoes lined up outdoors against a natural green background.
Purple wisteria flowers scattered around a black notebook on a light gray background.
Close-up fashion shots showcase delicate silver jewelry and soft makeup styling in a romantic editorial series.
Hands holding and writing in a small leather journal against a warm neutral background.
A group of people wearing white and blue butterfly-patterned clothing pose together for a photo.
A person wearing a white and blue butterfly print robe smiles while getting ready.
Panoramic view through multiple windows showing a residential neighborhood and trees on a sunny day.
A group in matching coral-colored robes and fuzzy slippers gather together laughing in a dimly lit room.
A series of framed photographs showing people in orange outfits displayed on a wall.
A touching moment between a bride in white and another person in a black floral dress sharing an emotional embrace.
A bride in a white wedding dress sits by large windows overlooking a scenic forest view.
Bride in flowing white tulle gown and pink sweater sits thoughtfully on wooden bench in sunlit room.
Romantic floral arrangement featuring orange roses and delicate blue flowers in soft natural lighting.
A bride in a white long-sleeved gown holds an autumn-colored bouquet while standing by large windows in natural light.
Two people share a joyful embrace during a wedding celebration in a bright, sunlit venue.
A sequence of images showing a skateboarder attempting a trick on an outdoor patio with wooden ramps.
Person in black t-shirt and grey shorts smiling while holding wine glasses in a rustic cellar setting.
People gather around a large ice bucket at a party table, reaching for drinks and socializing in a dimly lit room.
Collection of dark liquor bottles and glasses arranged on a wooden surface in dim lighting.
Clothing rack displaying casual menswear with grey shirts, blue ties, and green jackets hanging neatly in a store.
Two people share a lighthearted moment in black and white, with one wearing a suit and tie during what appears to be a casual chat.
A couple poses together in a lush garden setting with white hydrangea flowers in the foreground.
A person in a light gray suit and blue tie stands on a patio near a decorative fire bowl and brown wall.
Close-up view of hands adjusting a gray suit jacket sleeve and cuff link.
Wedding party wearing gray and navy suits poses together during outdoor celebration at garden venue.
Wedding guests gather on a stone patio wearing formal attire in shades of blue and gray at an outdoor venue.
Wedding party members in gray suits and one in blue pose playfully for a series of candid group photos outdoors.

Private Ceremony First: Vows and Ring Exchange (just the two of them)


Before the main event, Lauren and Jake did a private ceremony with vows and a ring exchange.


I’m a big fan of this approach. It gives you a moment to breathe and actually feel what’s happening without an audience watching you process every emotion in real time.


If you’re debating private vows or a private ceremony, this is one of those “you’ll never regret having it” choices.

A person in a well-fitted gray suit stands confidently outdoors against a residential backdrop.
Modern wooden deck with white railings extends from a contemporary home with large windows and landscaped yard.
A wedding couple shares a romantic first look moment on a modern patio with glass walls and greenery in the background.
Two men in contrasting suits stand together in a garden setting with blooming astilbe flowers and planters.
A wedding couple shares intimate moments in a lush garden setting with soft natural lighting and elegant attire.
A bride in an off-shoulder wedding dress holds a peach and white floral bouquet while smiling outdoors.
A couple shares a joyful moment together in a garden setting during their wedding celebration.
A couple stands under an elegant white canopy surrounded by lush greenery and hydrangeas during an outdoor ceremony.
Professional in a gray suit holds a smartphone while standing against a blurred background.
A wedding ceremony takes place in a lush garden setting with floral arrangements and natural greenery.
A romantic wedding moment captured outdoors with soft natural lighting and greenery in the background.
A groom in a light gray suit and navy blue tie smiles warmly during an outdoor wedding ceremony.
A joyful moment shared between a bride in a flowing dress and groom in a gray suit during an outdoor garden wedding ceremony.
Close-up view of hands in white lace holding a small black book with a diamond ring on the finger.
A person in a suit jacket adjusts their tie while standing outdoors.
Close-up view of hands exchanging wedding rings during a traditional ceremony.
A close-up shot of hands during a ring exchange ceremony with delicate lace details visible.
A couple shares an intimate dance moment on an outdoor patio surrounded by lush greenery and wooden beams.
A romantic wedding couple shares an intimate kiss during their outdoor garden ceremony wearing white and grey attire.
A couple shares a joyful moment together during their outdoor wedding celebration, with the bride in white and groom in gray.
Wedding party celebrates with raised arms and joyful expressions during outdoor celebration in floral dresses.
Wedding guests form a circle on a patio for a traditional celebration dance.

The Llama Surprise (yes, really)


At one point in the day, the timeline took a hard left and I learned we were going to see llamas.


I didn’t know the full backstory until later. Jake called over 50 places trying to make this happen for Lauren.

It turns out nobody really “brings llamas to you” because they’re skittish. Coordinating that kind of surprise is harder than it sounds. Jake didn’t give up, eventually found a place, and pulled it off.


Lauren is very much an outdoors and animals person. She has that “country girl” energy. I think she worked at a zoo at some point, but I can’t remember with 100% certainty. Jake is more of a city boy, which made the whole llama mission even funnier and even more impressive.


It was pure commitment. It also made their wedding feel unmistakably them.

Couple walking together on a grassy hillside path with wooden fencing and trees in the background.
Couple sharing a romantic moment outdoors in a rustic countryside setting with natural greenery.
A couple in wedding attire shares a joyful moment by a white fence while dogs play in the background.
A couple in wedding attire dances together on a grassy hillside with a white fence in the background.
White alpacas graze together in a grassy field on a sunny autumn day.
A bride in a flowing white wedding gown shares a playful moment with a friendly alpaca in a grassy field.
Someone in a gray sweater pets and interacts with friendly alpacas in an outdoor field setting.
A fluffy white alpaca with a curious expression stands in a field on a sunny day.
A couple and their dog stand together in a scenic mountain meadow surrounded by evergreen trees on a sunny day.
A couple shares a joyful moment with an alpaca during their outdoor wedding photoshoot.
White alpaca stands in a grassy field with a wedding couple in the background.
A rustic barn wedding venue with green metal roof set against a cloudy sky and evergreen trees.
Panoramic series of wedding photos showing couple in formal attire posing in front of rustic barn and rural landscape.
A couple in wedding attire stands in a field while a white llama photobombs their wedding photo.
A group of alpacas stand together in a grassy field with trees and buildings in the background.
A romantic outdoor wedding ceremony setup with white chairs on a hilltop overlooking a scenic mountain landscape.
A romantic wedding couple embraces in a scenic outdoor setting with rolling hills in the background.

Portraits Back at the Winery: Concrete Walls and Sharp Corners for the Win


After the llama visit, we came back to Novelty Hill-Januik for portraits.


The venue’s industrial garden and clean architectural elements gave us an incredible mix of structured backdrops, flattering light, and space to create portraits that feel timeless.


If you love photos that look polished but still feel real, this venue makes that easy.

Autumn wedding ceremony setup with yellow trees lining a grassy aisle under cloudy skies at an outdoor venue.
A couple in wedding attire walks together through a scenic garden setting with autumn trees.
A couple shares a romantic moment outdoors surrounded by golden autumn foliage.
A couple holds hands while walking together outdoors, with the bride carrying a fall-themed floral bouquet.
A romantic wedding couple shares a tender kiss while holding a beautiful peach and white floral bouquet.
A romantic couple in wedding attire share an intimate moment under a flowing veil on their special day.
A black and white wedding photo collage showing intimate moments between newlyweds during their special day.
A series of wedding photos showing a couple in a beautiful outdoor garden setting with autumn trees and foliage.
Couple poses against concrete wall with climbing vines and pink flowering plants in outdoor garden setting.
A bride and groom stand together against a concrete wall with climbing vines creating an elegant outdoor setting.
Elegant wedding couple poses against a stone wall with flowing veil and ivy creating a romantic garden atmosphere.
A wedding couple poses in front of an ivy-covered wall in formal attire during their outdoor photo session.

Public Ceremony: Jokes, Tears, and Jake’s Uncle Officiating


Both ceremonies were officiated by Jake’s uncle, which made everything feel more personal.


Jake brought the jokes, as expected. When Lauren walked down the aisle, he got hit with real emotion. There’s a moment where Jake’s uncle wipes a tear from his face. It’s sweet, slightly funny, and completely genuine.


Those are the photos that end up mattering most.

Orange gates line a tree-filled pathway at the Gates Foundation Discovery Center in Seattle.
White ceremony chairs decorated with purple and lavender floral arrangements and a reserved seating ribbon at an outdoor wedding.
A decorative wooden wedding card box with intricate floral patterns being displayed at a reception venue.
Elegant outdoor wedding reception setup with wooden tables, floral arrangements, and rustic decor in a garden setting.
A small group of wedding guests in formal attire engage in conversation during an outdoor celebration.
Wooden wine barrel signs displaying unplugged ceremony and welcome messages for a rustic outdoor wedding event.
Modern outdoor wedding venue with wooden beams and autumn foliage creating a natural, elegant atmosphere.
White folding chairs line a gravel aisle with glowing candles creating a romantic outdoor wedding ceremony setup.
Floral arch decorated with peach roses and white flowers against a natural outdoor backdrop.
Guests celebrate during an outdoor autumn wedding reception with colorful fall trees in the background.
A white folding chair decorated with pink and purple flowers at an outdoor wedding ceremony.
Two people in navy suits share a candid laughing moment during an outdoor photo session.
A bride in a white lace wedding dress stands in front of a modern building entrance.
A wedding party stands in a garden setting wearing formal attire with gray suits and blue ties.
Wedding guests seated in white chairs on an outdoor patio during an autumn ceremony.
A person in a gray suit and blue tie smiles while standing outdoors in an autumn setting.
A couple embraces during a romantic outdoor wedding ceremony with purple floral bouquets and decor.
A wedding reception celebration outdoors with guests mingling under string lights and trees during golden hour.
A couple poses with their cat during their outdoor wedding ceremony against a vibrant orange wall.
A joyful moment captured at an outdoor wedding with groomsmen in black and tan suits sharing laughter on a garden path.
A romantic outdoor garden wedding ceremony features guests seated on wooden chairs along a stone path.
An outdoor wedding ceremony in a garden setting with guests seated on white chairs beneath autumn trees.
Wedding guests dancing and celebrating at an outdoor reception during golden hour.
A joyful wedding couple dances together outdoors under autumn trees during their first dance celebration.
An outdoor wedding ceremony under string lights and autumn trees with a bright orange backdrop and white chairs for guests.
Wedding guests share joyful laughter during an outdoor reception celebration on a sunny afternoon.
A panoramic view of visitors walking through an outdoor art installation with bright orange gates and green trees.
A groom in a gray suit and blue tie delivers an emotional wedding speech outdoors during an autumn ceremony.
A series of candid photos showing a bride in a white lace dress with off-shoulder sleeves reading from a card at a wedding.
Wedding party celebrates joyfully outdoors with colorful orange decor and floral arrangements in the background.
Close-up view of clasped hands wearing wedding rings and a bracelet, sitting on dark and blue denim.
A sequence of hands in formal attire performing different gestures and poses against a blurred background.
Wedding party poses in front of vibrant orange wall at outdoor garden venue during celebration.
A couple dances together at an outdoor wedding venue with bright orange walls and trees in the background.
A series of outdoor wedding ceremony photos showing guests and couples celebrating in front of vibrant orange and natural backdrops.
Wedding party walks through a lush garden pathway with trees and red temple gates in the background.
Wedding party celebrates outdoors with joyful dancing and laughter during a summer garden reception.
A couple shares a romantic moment at their outdoor garden wedding ceremony with guests seated on white chairs.

Family Photos and Cocktail Hour (quick, efficient, back to the party)


We moved through family photos fast. The goal is always smooth and painless. Then we rolled into cocktail hour.

If you’re planning a wedding like this and want photos that feel effortless, these posts help a ton:

Wedding party guests line up for a panoramic group photo outdoors under tall green trees in autumn.
Wedding party and guests pose together in a series of outdoor group photos under green trees.
Wedding party in formal attire poses together outdoors with autumn trees and orange decor in the background.
A scenic garden pathway lined with colorful flowers and trees with visitors enjoying a peaceful afternoon stroll.
Elegant floral centerpieces and place cards arranged on a wooden table for an upscale event setting.
Homemade falafel balls garnished with cashews and spices served on a rustic wooden serving board.
Rows of elegant orange-colored appetizers displayed on white serving spoons at an upscale event.
Grilled chicken skewers topped with pink pickled onions and fresh herbs served on white plates.
Couple shares an intimate dance moment at an outdoor wedding reception surrounded by guests and natural scenery.
A series of wedding photos showing candid moments between couples in a garden setting with floral decorations.
Close-up detail of delicate lace and beading on a white formal dress.
Wedding guests dance together outdoors under a canopy of trees with orange decorations in the background.
Wedding guests hold up their phones to capture a special moment during an outdoor ceremony.
A couple shares intimate moments during their outdoor wedding celebration in a garden setting.
Close-up sequence of hands holding a glass of white wine in an elegant outdoor setting.
Wedding guests share joyful moments and laughter during an outdoor reception celebration.
A couple stands together on a wooden deck overlooking autumn trees during a wedding ceremony at sunset.
A romantic wedding couple shares intimate moments on a deck railing with autumn trees in the background.
Wedding party members in formal attire share joyful laughter and conversation on an outdoor wooden deck.
A sequence of candid moments at an outdoor wedding celebration in a garden setting.
Couples dance together at an outdoor wedding reception under string lights at dusk.
A group of people socializing at an outdoor gathering in formal attire.
Wedding party members in formal attire smiling together outdoors at an elegant celebration.

Reception Details: Origami Birds, Daruma Dolls, and a “Pain in the Ass” Tree


Lauren and Jake’s reception had some of the most personal details. Not just pretty, but meaningful and memorable.


The Origami Bird Seating Tree


They made a tree display with origami birds for each guest’s table and name. Lauren laughed and said it was a major pain in the ass to build.


Respect. DIY is beautiful and also occasionally chaos.


Daruma Dolls for Everyone


They also incorporated Daruma dolls because they traveled to Japan and loved the meaning behind them. Every guest got one. It turned into one of those small touches people actually talked about afterward.

Modern storefront exterior with large windows and brick accents at a wedding venue location.
Delicate orange origami paper cranes hanging from flowering tree branches against a blurred natural background.
Elegant wedding reception tables set with crystal glassware, white linens, and soft floral centerpieces in a dimly lit venue.
Close-up view of elegant white wedding invitation cards and place settings on table.
Wedding reception table decorated with floral arrangements and wooden cross decor on concrete wall.
Japanese Daruma dolls displayed on a white tablecloth with candles and decorative elements at an elegant table setting.
Elegant wedding reception table setting with glowing candles and glassware creating a romantic ambiance.
Wedding ceremony decor features vibrant orange and purple floral arrangements against a natural outdoor backdrop.
Hands delicately arranging fresh green plant stems in glass vases for a spring floral display.
Wedding guests having fun at a reception table with floral centerpieces and animated expressions.
Wedding guests laugh and smile during a reception dinner at a decorated table with floral centerpieces.
Wedding guests share a joyful moment of laughter at an elegant reception dinner with floral centerpieces.
A couple stands in silhouette in a doorway on their wedding day, captured in black and white photography.
A panoramic view of a wine cellar tasting room with wooden barrels and people gathered for a celebration event.
Wedding celebration in a rustic winery venue with wine barrels and guests in formal attire.
A couple dances and celebrates together at a rustic wedding venue with wine barrels in the background.
Rustic wedding ceremony setup with wooden triangle arch decorated with colorful wildflowers and greenery against concrete wall.
A romantic wedding reception moment at a decorated table with peach and blue floral arrangements.
Wedding guests sitting at long tables raise their glasses in a celebratory toast during a reception.
People gathered around a rustic wooden table enjoying a meal in an industrial-style dining space with floral decor.
A speaker in a blue dress addresses an audience during an event while holding a microphone and papers.
A panoramic view of a wedding reception venue decorated with floral arrangements and elegant table settings.
People dancing and socializing at a lively party or reception with dim lighting and festive atmosphere.
Colorful floral centerpiece with orange and pink flowers adorns a rustic wooden dining table during a wedding reception.
A joyful wedding celebration with people dancing and socializing under floral decorations in an elegant indoor venue.
Wedding couple shares intimate moments during their reception in a rustic venue with floral decorations.
Professional in a gray suit and blue tie holds a cup while standing against a textured wall.
Wedding party members laugh and share drinks during a reception celebration in a rustic venue.
Wedding guests share a candid laugh during a joyful reception moment in a light-filled venue.
Wedding guests dance and celebrate together during a lively reception party at an industrial-style venue.
Wedding guests raise their glasses in celebration during a reception toast at an indoor venue.
A group of people enjoying a celebration or event in a banquet hall setting.
A wedding celebration with floral arrangements featuring peach and coral roses alongside blue accents in an elegant venue.
Two people share an emotional embrace during a wedding celebration with floral decorations in the background.
Wedding reception guests enjoy a candlelit dinner with elegant floral centerpieces and glowing table settings.
A series of romantic wedding reception photos showing couples dancing and celebrating at decorated tables.
A couple shares a romantic moment during their wedding ceremony with floral decorations in the background.
A groom in a gray suit and blue tie laughs while getting ready for his wedding celebration.

Cake Cutting, Outfit Changes, and a Choreographed First Dance


After cake cutting, the energy just kept climbing.


Lauren and Jake did an outfit change for their first dance and came out with a coordinated routine. It was fun, confident, and very them. Once open dancing started, it was wild in the best way. High-energy, packed dance floor, everyone all-in.

A couple dances together at a wedding reception, with the woman wearing a sparkly white fringe dress and the man in a green blazer.
A couple dances together at a wedding reception on a wooden dance floor.
People dance together in a social dance class setting with wooden floors and large windows at night.
Couple performs an energetic dance move at a wedding reception with guests watching in the background.
A couple dances together during a wedding reception under warm lighting and surrounded by guests.
Wedding guests dancing and celebrating on the dance floor during an evening reception with ambient lighting.
A couple shares a romantic dance at their wedding reception, with the bride wearing a white gown and groom in dark suit.
Wedding guests dance together on a dimly lit dance floor during an evening reception celebration.
A sequence of dance moves shows two people in formal attire performing a fun dip on a dark wooden dance floor.
Couple enjoying a wine tasting experience at a winery with extensive bottle displays in the background.
Wine enthusiasts sampling beverages together at a tasting counter with wooden wine racks behind them.
A couple shares a romantic moment while tasting wedding cake samples at an elegant venue with wine bottles in the background.
Wedding reception dessert table with cake and cupcakes displayed against a wall of illuminated wine bottles.
Wine bottles line the walls of a cellar while people gather around a table with desserts and appetizers.
Wedding guests dancing and celebrating on a dimly lit dance floor with hanging pendant lights above.
Wedding guests dancing and celebrating on a crowded dance floor at a reception party with colorful lighting.
Wedding guests dancing and celebrating on a dance floor during a reception party.
A large group of people dancing with raised hands at an indoor venue with wooden beams on the ceiling.
People dancing together at a social gathering in what appears to be a salsa or Latin dance event.
A couple dancing together in a dimly lit venue with other dancers visible in the background.
A group of people dancing and celebrating together at a lively party or reception with warm lighting.
Wedding party members laugh and dance together during an energetic reception celebration.
Wedding guests dance and celebrate with raised arms on a crowded dance floor at an indoor reception venue.
People dancing and enjoying themselves at a lively indoor wedding reception with wooden ceiling beams visible.
People dancing in a line at a wedding reception with white shirts and dress clothes.
Wedding guests dance enthusiastically on a wooden dance floor during a lively reception celebration.
Wedding guests dancing and celebrating together on a dance floor with arms raised in joyful celebration.
Large group of wedding guests dancing and mingling in a wood-paneled reception venue with pendant lighting.
Party guests dancing in a dimly lit venue with purple and blue lighting creating a festive atmosphere.
A heartwarming dance moment captured at a wedding reception with warm lighting and festive atmosphere.
Two people enthusiastically dancing together at a lively party with onlookers in the background.
People in white outfits dancing energetically at a party with dark interior lighting and decorative elements.

Tips for Planning a Woodinville Winery Wedding that Feels like this


If you’re planning your own Washington winery wedding, here are a few takeaways from this day:

  • Consider a private ceremony or private vows if you want a calm, meaningful moment before the crowd
  • Pick a venue with multiple portrait backdrops so photos don’t eat your whole timeline
  • Build in buffer time because sometimes llamas happen
  • A second photographer helps a lot if you want full storytelling coverage
  • Honor loved ones intentionally. Small details like the purple touches become some of the most important photos later


Vendor Team

Venue: Novelty Hill-Januik Winery

Planning: K. Hancock Design

DJ: Orion Entertainment

Hair + Makeup: GLAMbridal

Dress: Luxe Redux Bridal

Alterations: Sewing Specialties

Suit: Beckett & Robb


Ready to book your Seattle or Washington wedding photographer?


If you’re planning a wedding in Woodinville, Seattle, or anywhere in the Pacific Northwest and want photos that feel timeless, honest, and full of real energy, I’d love to chat.

View my wedding photography pricing here

Or reach out through my contact page

If you’re still in planning mode, these posts can help:

How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Photographer

How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Photography Style