A Forest Wedding with Chic Elegance in Rogue River, Oregon
As a Southern Oregon wedding photographer, there’s nothing I love more than a celebration that feels both personal and breathtaking — and Clarissa & Chris’s wedding day delivered on all fronts. Held on her parents’ private property in Rogue River, this all-outdoor wedding brought together the best of the Pacific Northwest: towering trees, lush green grass, and golden light filtering through the forest canopy.
But don’t be fooled by the rustic setting — this day was far from casual. From the bride’s stunning ballgown to the groom and groomsmen in black tuxedos, this was an elevated, editorial-worthy celebration that still felt deeply connected to the natural beauty of Oregon.
Groomsmen Morning at Margaritaville – Classy, Cool, Editorial
Before heading to the forest ceremony, the guys got ready at the Margaritaville Hotel in Medford, and it was the perfect setting for a few pre-wedding moments with character. Picture this: tuxedos, top-shelf whiskey, and rich wood tones. All captured with a mix of flash and ambient light for that elevated, editorial vibe.
We took photos at the bar while the groomsmen shared a round of shots, lounged in the hotel lounge, and soaked in a few calm, confident moments before the big celebration. These weren’t just “getting ready” photos — they felt like something straight out of GQ, effortlessly cool but full of meaning. It was the perfect contrast to the emotional, nature-filled ceremony to come — and such a fun way to capture the groom and his crew in their element.
Bridal Preparations and details
Clarissa was a real life princess on this magical Oregon wedding day. The gown, the jewelry, the details -everything was classy and elevated and unique. But even more than that, these ladies were FUN. She spent her morning getting ready with 13 of her favorite ladies in her childhood Oregon home, and the love and laughter was abundant. Here’s a look at the morning from the ladies’ perspective, the bride’s stunning gown, and some shots of the groom afterward!
First look filled with emotion
Before the ceremony, Chris waited in a quiet, grassy clearing surrounded by Southern Oregon’s towering evergreens. When Clarissa stepped into view in her breathtaking ballgown, Chris’s entire expression changed. You could see the anticipation melt into pure joy.
They shared a few quiet words and happy tears, and lots of giggles. This was their moment — away from the crowd, just the two of them — soaking in the reality that they were about to become husband and wife.
Afterwards, we took a stroll through the lush green lawn, capturing portraits that blended editorial elegance with candid emotion. From romantic dips to lots of laughter, these portraits perfectly reflected the spirit of these two, and the balance of sophistication and natural beauty that defined their Rogue River wedding day.
Kolby Wall | Oregon Wedding Photographer
The couple exchanged vows beneath the trees, surrounded by friends and family who had traveled from New York, Florida, and all across the West Coast to witness their day. The ceremony was deeply emotional, filled with intentional details, and set against a serene forest backdrop that felt like something out of a storybook.
Clarissa & Chris struck the perfect balance between Oregon charm and high-end elegance. Every detail — from the sprawling green lawn where guests gathered, to the open-air dinner and dancing beneath the stars — felt intentionally designed yet relaxed, stylish yet heartfelt. Chic, yet FUN.
These are the kinds of weddings that inspire me the most: rooted in nature, rich with emotion, and elevated by a couple’s unique vision. As a Southern Oregon wedding photographer, capturing this kind of love — with all its grace, warmth, and individuality — is what it’s all about.
Why this Rogue River Wedding is a Southern Oregon dream
If you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s both luxurious and grounded in nature, Southern Oregon is the perfect backdrop. Whether you’re planning a backyard wedding in Rogue River, a winery wedding in Medford, or looking for an Oregon wedding photographer, I’d love to help bring your story to life with images that feel as unforgettable as the day itself.
