Mieke and Graham’s Wedding at Shafer Baillie Mansion

It’s hard to believe it’s been almost a year since I photographed Mieke and Graham’s beautiful wedding at Shafer Baillie Mansion, because every time I think about their day, it still feels so fresh and vivid in my mind. From the moment I arrived, I knew this was going to be one of those weddings that stayed with me for a long time. The laughter, the music, the accents (you’ll see why!), and the way their families embraced each other made the whole day feel like something straight out of a storybook.

One of the things that made their celebration so unique was the setting. Instead of a traditional hotel or ballroom, Mieke and Graham chose to host their wedding celebration at Shafer Baillie Mansion, a historic house they rented on Seattle’s Capitol Hill. The mansion truly feels like a little slice of Europe tucked into the city. With its rich wood details, grand staircase, and cozy, intimate rooms filled with character, it was the perfect backdrop for their elegant and romantic day. Everywhere I turned there were little nooks and corners that felt like they were made for quiet moments, heartfelt conversations, and beautiful portraits.

The ceremony itself took place at St. Mark’s Cathedral in Seattle, WA, and it could not have been a more fitting location. St. Mark’s is known for its soaring ceilings, dramatic architecture, and beautiful, natural light that streams in and wraps around everyone in the room. Walking into the cathedral with my cameras in hand, I felt that familiar mix of excitement and reverence. There’s something about photographing a wedding in a sacred, historic space like that—it almost invites you to slow down and really pay attention to every emotion and detail.

And there were so many emotions. Graham and his family are from the UK, and the moment I met them I understood exactly where his warm, charming energy came from. It truly felt like a real-life Jane Austen love story: a sophisticated, music-filled celebration with a British twist. His family and friends were absolutely hilarious—quick with jokes, full of personality, and so kind and welcoming. Mieke’s family was equally wonderful: warm, heartfelt, and clearly so proud of her. Together, their families created this joyful, blended group that felt as if they had known each other for years.

Music was woven into every part of the day, which felt so natural because Mieke is an opera singer. She has such a classic, timeless beauty and a sense of style that feels both refined and effortless. Even when she was simply standing still, she looked like she had stepped out of an old movie. I loved capturing the way her dress moved, the way she carried herself, and the way her face completely lit up whenever she looked at Graham. There’s a certain quiet confidence and grace about her that comes through so beautifully in photographs.

After the ceremony at St. Mark’s, we made our way back to Shafer Baillie Mansion, where the rest of the celebration unfolded. The house felt even more magical as guests arrived and filled it with conversation and laughter. People spilled out onto the grounds, gathered in small clusters in the various rooms, and enjoyed that relaxed, house-party atmosphere that you just can’t recreate in a more formal venue. It felt less like an event and more like an intimate gathering at a friend’s (very grand) home.

The evening was filled with beautiful music and singing, which of course was one of my favorite parts to document. Friends and family performed pieces that were clearly meaningful to Mieke and Graham, and every song felt like a love letter to the couple. There’s something incredibly moving about a room full of people who aren’t just watching a performance, but are emotionally invested in it. You could feel the love in the way people listened, clapped, and wiped away quiet tears.

Their friends kept everyone laughing with speeches that were the perfect balance of sentimental and funny. There were stories from childhood, travel adventures, and the early days of their relationship. Every toast made it even more clear just how loved and supported Mieke and Graham are, both individually and as a couple.

Looking back now, I’m honestly shocked I haven’t blogged this wedding already. It was absolutely one of the highlights of my year. After the wedding, I loved following along with Mieke’s journey on Facebook as she moved to the UK to start her new life with Graham and his family. Watching her adventures overseas, seeing little glimpses of their everyday life together, has been such a joy. And now, knowing they have a baby on the way (or already here, depending on when you’re reading this!) just makes their story even sweeter. I am so excited to see what their little one will look like and to watch this next chapter of their love story unfold.

Mieke and Graham’s wedding was more than just a beautiful day at St. Mark’s Cathedral and Shafer Baillie Mansion. It was a celebration of two worlds coming together, of music and tradition, of family, faith, and a love that crossed an ocean. I feel so honored that I was the one who got to be there, camera in hand, preserving it all.