Mike & Melissa's Nautical Wedding on the Virginia V: Stunning Boat Wedding Venue in Seattle

The pictures are already AMAZING!!!!!!
I can’t wait to see the rest. I sent them to everyone
and they are loving them!!! ❤️❤️❤️
— Melissa & Mike

BRIDAL SHOP: Lovely Bride Seattle  | BRIDES SHOES : Birkenstocks | CATERING: Gourmondo | DJ: Wunderland Events | FLORIST: Daisy & Wish | BEAUTY TEAM: Off White Beauty | INVITATIONS: Zazzle | SHIP FLAG: Amazon Designer, Rosie Heffernan (Cousin of the Bride)| SEATTLE WEDDING BOAT VENUE:Virginia V Steamship


Mike & Melissa's Nautical Wedding on the Virginia V:

Stunning Boat Wedding Venue in Seattle

As the radiant sun began to rise over Seattle on that warm summer day, all the elements aligned perfectly for Mike and Melissa’s dream wedding—a romantic and festive celebration aboard the majestic Virginia V steamship. This was not just another wedding; it was a nautical wedding that immersed everyone in love, laughter, and the serene beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

The anticipation filled the air as guests arrived at South Lake Union Park, where the wedding festivities were about to begin. Guests could feel the gentle breeze of the lake accompanied by the sound of water lapping against the historic wooden ships nestled in the wharf. Many of them eagerly took selfies by a charming navy and white welcome sign that Melissa and Mike had prepared, setting the tone for a wedding that was a unique fusion of elegance and fun. Each invitation to the wedding was custom-designed by Melissa herself on Zazzle, cleverly styled to resemble tickets for a wedding cruise in Seattle.

As the clock inched closer to the ceremony, guests grabbed drinks from the pre-ceremony bar, toasting to the couple as the Virginia V steamship prepared to depart from the docks. With a rich history and locally milled timber forming its structure, the Virginia V steamship was the quintessential boat wedding venue in Seattle.

Amid the joyful chaos, Mike and Melissa shared their intimate first look in South Lake Union Park, accompanied by their adorable little black dog, Zero. Their first look was disrupted in the most delightful way when Zero playfully photobombed their emotional moment, bringing laughter and delight. The joyful chaos of their wedding mirrored their genuine connection; there was something magnetic about their love that effortlessly drew everyone in.

After capturing stunning photographs on the dock—nestled against the backdrop of the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI)—the couple transitioned to the boat for the main event. The white, blue, and gold exterior of MOHAI offered a perfect nautical vibe alongside the couple’s cherished theme. There was an undeniable magic in the air as the couple posed for portraits, with the Seattle skyline and iconic Space Needle standing sentinel in the background.

The ceremony proudly unfolded on the bow of the Virginia V steamship, with the shimmering waters of South Lake Union as the setting. Seagulls accompanied the joyful sounds of union while kayakers and paddle boarders floated by, adding a touch of Seattle charm. As emotions ran high, a custom ivory canvas flag, adorned with the couple’s name in elegant navy blue calligraphy, rippled in the gentle breeze. The flag was made by the brides cousin, Rosie Heffernan. The scene was idyllic—a vivid tableau of love under the Seattle sky.

With family and friends gathered around, Mike looked dapper in his classic navy suit, an ivory bowtie adorned with anchors, and sky-blue anchor socks. Meanwhile, Melissa stunned everyone in her A-line lace and sequin gown from Lovely Bride Seattle, featuring a daring deep V cutout. Accented by a multi-strand necklace and earrings handmade by a dear friend, with freshwater pearls and crystals echoing the hues of the ocean, Melissa radiated beauty. The nautical theme permeated every detail, creating not just a wedding on a boat in Seattle but an experience in romance.

After the “I dos” were exchanged, guests indulged in a delightful cocktail hour featuring an array of Pacific Northwest cuisine, including a raw oyster bar catered by the talented Gourmondo catering. Laughter and conversations flowed as guests shared heartfelt stories of the newlyweds amid colorful floral arrangements from Daisy & Wish, which showcased seasonal blooms in vibrant hues perfectly capturing the spirit of the day.

As the sun began to set, illuminating Lake Union with a golden hue, the celebration continued on the top deck of the Virginia V. The couple embraced their families and friends, capturing group photos with that stunning Seattle skyline in the background, embodying the joyous essence of their nautical wedding. The sense of belonging enveloped everyone present, as if the lake itself was celebrating alongside the couple.

Dinner was a beautiful buffet experience, hosted on the main level of the ship beneath crisp navy tablecloths adorned with layers of white linens and vibrant flower arrangements. The warmth in the air was filled with a unique nautical vibe—a perfect homage to the couple’s love story. Toasts filled the air with laughter, tears, and heartfelt sentiments, and the deep bonds shared were palpable.

As dessert beckoned, guests were treated to the couple’s wedding cake served ‘to go’ style as they disembarked the boat, an imaginative twist. The party continued at China Harbor Restaurant, where t floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing mesmerizing views of twinkling city lights reflected on the calm surface of the lake.

As the evening wore on and the jubilant vibes pulsated through the air, laughter echoed and memories were made. The couple took a moment to change into a more relaxed attire before letting loose on the dance floor. Leading the party was the exceptional Wunderland Events, whose electric DJ and MC services got the crowd PUMPED up and dancing the night away. They effortlessly filled the room with a symphony of exhilarating beats, ensuring the energy flowed through everyone present, making it an unforgettable experience.

Every detail at Mike and Melissa’s nautical wedding on the Virginia V Steamship resonated with their love story. Just as they had dreamed, from the handcrafted invitations to the carefully selected nautical decor, it unfolded beautifully before their eyes. Guests left with smiles on their faces, hearts full of joy, and the memories of a wedding cruise in Seattle that embraced the beauty of love, community, and the Pacific Northwest.

In the end, Mike and Melissa’s nautical-themed wedding was more than just an event; it was the merging of families, the celebration of love, and a reminder of the beauty found in life's most cherished moments. On the gleaming surface of South Lake Union and the iconic backdrop of Seattle, their love set sail as they began their new journey together—forever bonded under the very sky that had witnessed their vows, gracefully navigating through life's waters like they once navigated that special wedding day.

Rays Boat House Wedding Vendors

Seattle Bridal Shop: I Do Bridal  

Brides Shoes: Bella Belle Shoes

Cake: Honeycrumb Cake Studio

DJ: Integral DJs

Florist: Bond in Bloom

Wedding Gown Designer: La Perle

Second Dress: BHLDN

Hair & Makeup Stylist: Craft Beauty

Invitation: Minted

Jewelry: Seattle Diamonds

Planner: Gather Well Events

Ballard Wedding Venue: Ray's Boathouse

Wedding Photographer: B. Jones Photography

 
 

Coastal Weddings

Weddings with Dogs

Capturing the Magic of Woodland Meadow Farms

at the Snohomish Wedding Tour

Despite the cold and rainy June day, Woodland Meadow Farms provided a picturesque and enchanting backdrop for the annual Snohomish Wedding Tour, organized by the Snohomish Wedding Guild. The multiple covered spaces at Woodland Meadow Farms ensured that guests remained warm and dry, creating a cozy atmosphere amidst the drizzle and chilly summer temperatures.

The ceremony area, featuring a large floating clear rain fly, maintained a light and airy feel despite the weather. The wedding planner and designer, Your Perfect Bridesmaid, transformed the space with a whimsical forest design that captivated everyone in attendance. Their expertise and dedication to creating ideal wedding experiences shone through in every detail of the ceremony and reception spaces.

Woodland Meadow Farms, a popular Snohomish wedding venue, offers a charming backyard, woodsy wedding experience without the hassle. Available from May through mid-October, the venue's rental fees begin at $7,500 for a summer Saturday, providing a beautiful and versatile setting for any celebration.

The event was enriched by the contributions of several exceptional vendors. Cascara Coffee Co, kept everyone energized with their mobile espresso cart, offering exceptional coffee and extraordinary service. They delighted guests with specialty drinks like the Citrus Spiced Vanilla, a delightful blend of vanilla and cardamom with an orange spritz, and the Lavender Caramel Latte, a soothing combination of lavender and caramel.

Snohomish Valley Floral, led by Mandy H., created stunning floral designs that added a timeless and unique touch to the event. 12 Baskets Catering impressed with their delicious menus made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, while Blush & Rover delighted guests with their mobile frozen slushie beverage bar, serving both cocktails and mocktails. Dani K Cookies provided custom sugar cookies that doubled as charming place cards on each plate. This new trend of having cookies as place cards is one that I hope takes off!

Orion Entertainment ensured the perfect soundtrack for the day with their professional DJ/MC services, while Vault Rental Co added a unique touch with their curated collection of specialty rental pieces. For the gentlemen, Stache Mobile Barber offered luxury mobile grooming services, enhancing their grooming routines with unmatched excellence.

Just down the street from Woodland Meadow Farms is its sister venue, Dairyland. For a glimpse into this equally enchanting venue, check out these photos from Dairyland.

If you're considering a Snohomish wedding, Woodland Meadow Farms and Dairyland Snohomish Wa offer beautiful and versatile options. For more Snohomish wedding venues, explore more.

The Snohomish Wedding Tour at Woodland Meadow Farms showcased the very best of woodland wedding venues, with every vendor contributing to an unforgettable experience despite the weather. If you’re planning a wedding, this tour is an excellent source of inspiration and a testament to the resilience and creativity of the wedding community in Snohomish.

 

More Snohomish Wedding Venues