Bellingham Fall Wedding: Kayla and Corbin

Kayla and Corbin’s wedding day in Bellingham was the kind of cozy, heartfelt celebration that makes me fall in love with autumn weddings all over again. It was full of rich fall colors, waterfront views, and so many personal touches that reflected who they are as a couple. Since autumn is Kayla’s favorite season, it only made sense that their day would be wrapped in warm tones, crisp air, and that golden, nostalgic feeling only the Pacific Northwest can give.

A Bellingham fall wedding is truly magical, with the vibrant colors of the season creating a stunning backdrop for love. Kayla and Corbin’s wedding day in Bellingham was the kind of cozy, heartfelt celebration that makes me fall in love with autumn weddings all over again.

The day began at The Chrysalis Inn & Spa Bellingham, a beautiful boutique hotel overlooking Bellingham Bay, right next to historic Fairhaven. It was the perfect place for everyone to get ready—cozy rooms, big windows, and a calm, relaxed atmosphere. I loved photographing the little details there: the dress hanging by the window, the bouquets laid out against soft fabrics, and the excited energy of Kayla and her bridesmaids as hair and makeup wrapped up. There’s something about starting a wedding day by the water that instantly sets a peaceful tone.

Once everyone was ready, we headed out into Fairhaven for their portraits. Fairhaven is one of my favorite places in Bellingham for photos—red brick buildings, winding streets, historic architecture, and peeks of the bay around almost every corner. It has this charming, old-town feel that works so beautifully with a rich autumn palette. We wandered through the streets, stopping by little alleyways, brick walls, and tree-lined paths as the fall colors showed off around us. The deep burgundies, rust tones, and earthy greens in their flowers and outfits popped perfectly against the backdrop of the village. It felt like the season was wrapping them up in color.

Their ceremony and reception were held at the Bellingham Cruise Terminal in Fairhaven, which is such a unique and stunning venue for a wedding. The Dome Room, with its floor-to-ceiling windows and curved glass ceiling, overlooks Bellingham Bay and fills with beautiful natural light. Watching guests gather there as the water shimmered outside and the sky slowly shifted into evening was such a special sight. It’s one of those venues where you’re reminded just how lucky we are to have the bay as a backdrop.

Hosting their ceremony at the Bellingham Cruise Terminal made their Bellingham fall wedding even more special, with the gorgeous bay view adding charm to the event.

The decor inside continued that rich autumn theme Kayla loved so much. Their color palette was full of deep, warm tones—burnt oranges, rust, wine, and gold accents—balanced with greenery that tied everything together. It was classic and romantic but still felt cozy and inviting, like the best parts of fall brought indoors. The florals and table details fit the space perfectly without overwhelming it, letting the view and the architecture of the cruise terminal shine.

Every detail reflected the essence of a Bellingham fall wedding, from the decor to the heartfelt moments shared.

The ceremony itself was full of emotion. Surrounded by their closest family and friends, Kayla and Corbin exchanged vows with the bay just beyond the glass. You could feel how much support they have from the people in that room—tearful smiles, quiet laughter, and those little glances between family members that say, “They’re really doing this.” As a Bellingham wedding photographer, moments like those are the ones I love most to capture: the way parents look at their kids, the way friends squeeze each other’s hands, the way a couple’s shoulders relax once they finally say “I do.”

As a Bellingham wedding photographer, I cherish the emotional exchanges that happen during the ceremony.

After the ceremony, guests enjoyed the view, the warm glow of the room, and the cozy atmosphere that autumn evenings in the Pacific Northwest are known for. As the light faded outside and the reflections of the room danced on the windows, the space transformed into the perfect setting for their reception. The toasts were heartfelt and funny, giving little glimpses into who Kayla and Corbin are, both individually and together. There was so much laughter and a few happy tears as loved ones stood to share stories and blessings for their future.

The ambiance during the reception was the quintessential Bellingham fall wedding experience, bringing warmth and joy to all present.

When it was time to dance, their guests did not hold back. The dance floor filled quickly, and it stayed full for most of the night. There’s something about being tucked inside a warm room, with music playing and the dark bay outside, that makes everyone lean all the way into the celebration. Watching Kayla and Corbin move through the crowd—hugging friends, spinning each other around, and taking in every moment—was such a joy.

Looking back on Kayla and Corbin’s wedding, what stands out to me most is how perfectly “them” it all felt. From getting ready at The Chrysalis Inn & Spa by the water, to wandering through Fairhaven for portraits, to celebrating at the Bellingham Cruise Terminal surrounded by rich autumn colors, their day was a beautiful reflection of the city they chose and the season she loves. It was warm, heartfelt, and so full of meaning—a Bellingham fall wedding I’ll always remember.

This Bellingham fall wedding was a stunning celebration of love that I will always remember.