Candlelit Intimate Dinner Party Wedding at Canlis Restaurant
From spending their morning exchanging private vows at the Fairmont Olympic to a refined, 3-course meal at the most luxurious restaurant in all of Seattle… Emilie and David’s intimate Canlis wedding celebration was one for the books.
Emilie & David’s Luxury Canlis Wedding
Private vows at the Fairmont Olympic Hotel
This gorgeous October wedding day kicked off downtown at the Fairmont Olympic, an iconic luxury hotel just steps from the Seattle waterfront. It is always a pleasure to shoot here, be it for a wedding celebration or an engagement, thanks to the Fairmont’s gorgeous blend of rich history, modern elegance, and timeless charm.
I spent most of the morning with Emilie as she got ready in her room, documenting their gorgeous details while she wrapped up writing her vows. And let me tell you: the jewelry was unmatched here, so glittery and gorgeous that I couldn’t help but deliver an entire collection of ring shots in their final gallery! The crystal earrings, Emilie’s breathtaking wedding bands, and the rhinestone-covered stilettos… simply stunning. Add to that a few precious, personalized “Perfect Match” matchboxes, and you’ve got quite the beautiful detail setup. Truly a photographer’s dream come true.
Now a brief moment for Emilie’s absolute dream of a gown—the most exquisite strapless piece from Willowby by Watters featuring layers of fluffy tulle, a structured cat eye neckline, and a long neck scarf draped over her shoulders to elevate the look. Paired with her classy updo and loose, face-framing curls, her minimalist makeup, and the brilliant diamond earrings dangling just above her shoulders, Emilie looked every bit the effortlessly glam bride.
The big moment had arrived: it was time for David to join his beautiful wife-to-be for their private vows—and my goodness was this a sweet, sweet moment shared between the nearlyweds. They didn’t need anything fancy to create a romantic moment together; just the two of them seated on the edge of the bed, reading vows to one another without anyone else in sight. I highly recommend opting for private vows just like this, if you’d like a moment to yourselves before you gather with your guests for your formal ceremony.
A few snazzy elevator portraits & kisses on the grand staircase later, and we were off to Canlis for the rest of the evening. Though not before we managed to snag a quick moment on the streets of downtown Seattle for glam city portraits!
The Fairmont is one of my all-time favorite hotels in Seattle not only for getting ready on your wedding day, but for couples portraits as well. Be sure to check out this gorgeous Bridal-Inspired Engagement at the Fairmont Olympic Hotel shot with Kelsey & Jason!
An intimate ceremony at Canlis Restaurant
Emilie and David held their ceremony and reception inside of the luxurious Canlis Restaurant, inviting their loved ones to partake in the most refined dining experience in Seattle. But before dinner was served, the two joined their guests for an intimate ceremony overlooking striking views of Lake Union, the Cascades, and the Seattle skyline.
If you’re unfamiliar with Canlis, it’s a renowned culinary landmark in Seattle that’s now been hosting magnificent, one-of-a-kind experiences for over 70 years. Emilie and David’s celebration was hosted in the Penthouse, which offers sweeping views and space for up to 50 seated dinner guests. I cannot recommend it enough if you’re craving a refined, romantic experience for your celebration, whether you enjoy your entire celebration at Canlis or solely an unforgettable dinner party.
Romantic dinner party by candlelight
The entire evening at Canlis was modern, structural, and so refreshing in its design—the perfect compliment to Emilie and David’s classic Seattle luxury itinerary. Before the sky went dark, we of course had to step outside for newlywed portraits with those spectacular views, the clouds even gifting us with dreamy cotton candy skies. Live piano music hummed in the background as the two shared laughs, stories, and glasses of delicious wine with the people they loved, all under the cozy ambiance of warm candlelight. And let me tell you, the candles were everywhere: lining the windowsills and held up by glass vases on the dinner table, framing the entire room in a soft glow that just exuded romance. I don’t know about you, but I’m all for candlelit dinner parties having their moment this year!
What a day to be a part of—I’ll be thinking about this one with Emilie and David for a while 🕯️
Vendor team
Hair & Makeup: Xenia MUAH | @xenia_makeup_hair
Dress: Willowby by Watters | @willowbywatters
Venues: Fairmont Olympic & Canlis | @fairmontolympic @canlisrestaurant
Piano: Lennon Aldort | @lennonaldortpiano
Canlis Restaurant Wedding Photography
Be honest with me: how ready are you to whip up your own dreamy Canlis wedding after seeing Emilie & David’s? Reach out now get your celebration on the books so we can celebrate you, my darlings 🥂
Still searching for the perfect locale for your big day? Fortunately for you, I’ve got a curated guide featuring the Top 10 Luxury Wedding Venues in Seattlethat you can look through next.
