John and Elizabeth’s Colorful Port Gamble Summer Wedding

There are some wedding days that feel like they were lifted straight out of a storybook, and John and Elizabeth’s Port Gamble summer wedding was exactly that. Nestled on the Kitsap Peninsula with sweeping views of the water, historic charm, and lush gardens, Port Gamble was the perfect backdrop for their colorful, coastal, garden-party celebration. From the mismatched bridesmaids’ dresses to the handmade napkins and custom gown, every detail felt intentional, personal, and joyfully them.

A Port Gamble Wedding Filled With Color and Personality

When I think back on this Port Gamble wedding, the first thing that comes to mind is color. Elizabeth wanted the day to feel like a vibrant garden party by the sea, and she absolutely nailed it. Instead of choosing a single bridesmaid dress color, she asked her friends to wear different colors and patterns that still coordinated beautifully together.

Florals played a huge role in tying everything together. Each bridesmaid carried a bouquet that was designed to match her dress — soft corals, sunny yellows, deep greens, lilacs, and blues. It was one of my favorite details of the entire day. Seeing them all lined up together, each woman in a unique dress with her own coordinating bouquet, created the most joyful, painterly moment. It felt relaxed and stylish, and it photographed so beautifully against the coastal backdrop of Port Gamble.

If you’re dreaming of your own Port Gamble wedding and love color, this is such a fun idea to borrow. Allowing your bridesmaids to choose dresses in different shades and patterns—not only lets their personalities shine but also adds so much visual interest to your photos.

A Custom Wedding Gown With a Personal Touch

Elizabeth’s dress was another detail that made this wedding so special. She found her gown at Lovely Bridal and then customized it by adding sleeves. That simple design choice completely transformed the dress and made it feel like it was made just for her.

The delicate sleeves added a romantic, almost ethereal touch that was perfect for a summer day in Port Gamble. As she walked through the gardens and along the waterfront, the light filtered through the fabric in the softest way. It framed her shoulders and face beautifully in photos and gave her the confidence to fully relax, move, and enjoy every moment.

I always love when brides make their dress their own—whether that’s adding sleeves, changing the neckline, wearing a unique veil, or incorporating an heirloom accessory. Your wedding day is such a personal milestone, and small customizations like this help your gown tell your story.

Thoughtful Handmade Details: Napkins Sewn With Love

One of the most meaningful details of John and Elizabeth’s Port Gamble wedding was something many guests might not even know at first glance: the napkins. Every single napkin at the reception was handmade by the bride’s mom.

They were soft, colorful, and perfectly coordinated with the rest of the décor. Knowing that a loved one had spent hours sewing them added an extra layer of heart to the entire day. It wasn’t just about having pretty table settings—it was about family, love, and care woven into every inch of the celebration.

As a photographer, I’m always drawn to these kinds of details. They may seem small, but they carry so much meaning. When Elizabeth’s mom saw the tables fully set with the napkins she’d made, there was this quiet, emotional moment that said everything without words.

Coastal, Garden-Party Vibes in Port Gamble

The overall feel of the day was a beautiful blend of coastal and garden-party charm. The ceremony took place surrounded by greenery, with glimpses of the water in the background and a soft summer breeze moving through the trees.

Guests mingled on the lawn, laughter echoing across the property as they enjoyed cocktails and conversation under the warm afternoon sun. The reception décor carried that same fresh, colorful energy—layered linens, lush florals, candles, and, of course, those handmade napkins.

As the sun began to set, we snuck away with John and Elizabeth for portraits. Golden hour in Port Gamble is truly magical. The light wrapped around them in a soft glow, the water shimmered behind them, and the pastel colors of the sky mirrored the palette of their wedding day. It was the perfect, peaceful pause in the middle of all the celebration.

Why I Loved This Port Gamble Wedding

What made this Port Gamble wedding stand out wasn’t just the location (though it’s a dream to photograph there); it was the way John and Elizabeth wove themselves into every part of the day.

The custom sleeves on the bride’s dress.
The bridesmaids in unique, colorful dresses with matching bouquets.
The napkins lovingly made by her mom.

All of those choices created a celebration that felt effortlessly elegant, fun, and deeply personal. It was a reminder that the best weddings aren’t about perfection—they’re about personality, connection, and details that truly mean something.

If you’re planning your own Port Gamble wedding and love the idea of a colorful, coastal, garden-party feel, John and Elizabeth’s day is such beautiful inspiration. And if you’re looking for a Port Gamble wedding photographer to help you document every thoughtful detail and candid moment, I’d be honored to be part of your story.

Wedding Vendors:

Coordinator: Elegant Affairs

Florals: Noctua Florals

Hair and makeup: Bridal Beauty Agency

DJ: Dubreezy

Dress: Lovely Bride

Cake: Birch Bakes