Princess Ball Gown Wedding in Portland, Oregon

Love always finds a way - even in the 21st century. Steffanie and Ty could have crossed paths a million times over, but technology has its ways of making love unconventional. Steffanie and Ty had both separately landed in Oregon from Northern California at different times, for different reasons. One day, while swiping on Tinder in the Portland area, Ty recognized a childhood friend standing next to Steffanie in a photo on her profile and swiped right. The two matched, struck up a conversation and the rest is history.

Five years to the day of their first date, Ty took their love to the next step. Steffanie and a friend planned a rainy Saturday morning hike to LL.Stub Stewart State Park, a destination that also happened to be one of the couples’ favorite hikes with a breathtaking view of the mountains and trees. She would soon find out that the familiar view at the end of the trail was going to look a little different that day.

“I thought I was going on a hike with my sweet friend, who helped him plan it out. When I turned the last corner of the trail and saw the twinkle lights, the roses, and then Ty - standing in the rain - I immediately started crying. As he got down on one knee, Ty very cleverly proclaimed “As Taylor Swift once said, ‘Meet me in the pouring rain.’”

Before shopping at Charlotte's, Steffanie had tried on dresses at a few other shops and had a good idea of how she wanted to feel in her wedding dress - like a princess - in true Taylor Swift ‘’Love Story”’ fashion, of course. She wanted her shopping experience to be free of pressure to purchase, stress and salesy attitudes.

When talking about her experience at Charlotte’s, she was thrilled to say it was exactly as she’d hoped. She was paired with our Master Stylist, Stephanie, who made her feel cared for and taken care of throughout the process of finding the perfect princess gown. After expressing her feelings of uncertainty in finding the perfect dress, Stephanie reassured her that the day was all about trying on pretty dresses and finding some favorites, but there was no rush to purchase a dress.

“My experience at Charlotte’s is truly one I will never forget. I never once felt judged or limited by size. Stephanie’s customer service, and friendliness were truly above and beyond.”

Two appointments later and getting one step closer each time, Steffanie found a gown with the drama, the romance, the lace, and just a little sparkle that would create the dress that she would walk towards Ty in.

Steffanie said her “I Do's” wearing Julia Leigh style 5718. The perfect ball gown wedding dress with lace on the bodice and appliqués that cascade down the skirt. The dress features a deep-v neckline and a corset bodice to give it a touch of sexiness. The off-the-shoulder sleeves create a beautiful mix of romance and whimsy; perfect for the princess wedding dress feeling that Steffanie was looking for.

Steffanie and Ty said their “I Do’s” in front of their friends and family on a perfect mid-70s, clear, September day at The Woods on Crooked Finger in Scotts Mills, OR. When shopping for the spot to exchange their vows, the venue immediately wow’d them and they could see themselves getting married in that exact spot. Steffanie described their wedding day as a dream. Seeing her vision come together and being surrounded by loved ones made for a day of relief and happiness.

When asked what advice she would give to brides-to-be she said,

“It goes by fast, enjoy every minute of it. Every minute of the planning, the shopping, and the big day. I would also say that choosing the right vendors and people to support you on your big day can change everything. Having people around you, who support, love and share your vision is so important.”

Reflecting on the wedding now, Steffanie’s fondest memories were dancing with their flower girls, sharing private vows with Ty and listening to heartfelt speeches from loved ones. It was the perfect fairytale wedding to match their magical love story.