Mr. + Mrs. Germann at Sanders Estate

Nick + Katie’s Stormy but Stunning Sanders Estate Wedding

Let me tell you, as wedding photographers, we live for the moments when a wedding throws you a curveball and you still manage to pull off something amazing. And let me tell you, Nick and Katie’s Sanders Estate wedding was *exactly* that! When you think of a September wedding in the Pacific Northwest, you’re probably imagining cool air, maybe a light mist, and that perfect golden hour glow. Well, Nick and Katie got all of that—with a little twist—because, on Saturday, September 14, 2024, the biggest storm of the month decided to make a grand entrance at their wedding. And when I say it rained, I mean it POURED. 

But here’s the thing: Katie and Nick are a force to be reckoned with. Despite the downpour, they rolled with the punches, keeping their spirits high and managing to have the most incredible day surrounded by family and friends who flew in from all over the world, including the UK. So buckle up, because this is the story of how Nick and Katie’s stormy wedding day became a magical celebration of love and teamwork.

We first met Katie at one of the three wedding shows we attended that year. From the moment we started chatting, it felt like we had known her forever. We connected instantly over some shared experiences and a love for all things wedding. By the end of our conversation, we knew her wedding was going to be something special. Spoiler alert: it absolutely was.

Fast forward to their wedding day at the beautiful Sanders Estate, where Nick and Katie were excited beyond words. They had friends and family flying in from all over, and the whole day had this incredible energy—despite the looming storm clouds. These two were determined to make their wedding unforgettable, and they succeeded.

Katie’s Dream Dress (With Pockets!)

Now, I can’t talk about this wedding without mentioning Katie’s amazing dress from Maggie Sottero. Let’s be real, ladies, who doesn’t love a wedding dress with pockets?! Katie’s dress was every bride’s dream: sleek, modern, and sophisticated, with pockets for those little things you need handy on your big day. She looked like she walked straight out of a high-fashion magazine, and we were obsessed.

When she first stepped into her gown, you could tell she felt like an absolute queen. And I’m not exaggerating—Katie truly radiated confidence and joy. The dress had this elegant movement to it that was just so fun to capture on camera, and I’m telling you, those pockets? Every gal’s dream come true. Plus, it made sneaking a tissue (or some candy from the snack bar) a breeze!

A Race Against the Rain

If you know anything about weddings in the Pacific Northwest, you know we’ve learned to embrace the unpredictable weather. But no one could have predicted this storm (though everyone likes to tell me it was on the weather app for several days… uh sure guys. I believe you). The day started off with a drizzle—no big deal. But around 2:30 PM, just as we were getting into the bridal prep portion of the day, the skies opened up, and it rained buckets until almost 5:00 PM, right when the ceremony was supposed to start. Talk about a plot twist!

But here’s where Nick and Katie’s teamwork really shined. Instead of letting the rain dampen their spirits (pun intended!), they stayed calm and flexible. We quickly pivoted our plans and made use of Sanders Estate’s stunning wraparound porch, which saved the day. We were able to capture their first look and a handful of beautiful portraits without getting soaked! 

Katie and Nick’s first look was nothing short of magical. There’s something about the anticipation of that moment that always gets me, and despite the rain, you could feel the excitement between them. The porch, with its charming, vintage vibes, gave us the perfect setting to make their portraits feel intimate, cozy, and totally unique.

A Ceremony Full of Love (and Dry Guests!)

Thankfully, right as we were about to start the ceremony, the rain let up just enough to give everyone a break. Since the storm had forced us indoors, the intimate ceremony took place inside Sanders Estate, which honestly added this really special, close-knit vibe to the whole event. Surrounded by family and friends who had traveled from near and far, Nick and Katie exchanged their vows with so much love and grace, it felt like the rain was a distant memory.

And let me just say, the love in that room was palpable. From the heartfelt vows to the way their guests cheered for them, you could tell these two are loved beyond measure. And while we had to move things around because of the storm, it just made the day feel even more personal and meaningful.

Creative Portraits in the Rain

Now, as photographers, we’re always hoping for that dreamy golden hour to swoop in and bless us with some soft, romantic light. But the universe had other plans. Instead of a picture-perfect sunset, we had… darkness. However, we came prepared, and let me tell you—what we pulled off with a little creativity and some good lighting gear was chef’s kiss.

Once the rain let up again during the reception, we snuck outside with Nick and Katie and set up some moody, nighttime portraits under the cloudy sky. These weren’t your typical golden hour shots, but they had this raw, authentic energy that perfectly reflected the day. It was almost like the storm added to the drama and romance of their photos, making them even more memorable. Plus, Nick and Katie were total champs about getting outside in the chilly night air for some extra photos!

While it wasn’t the sunset I would’ve picked, those stormy night shots ended up being some of my favorites. They just had this bold, edgy vibe that felt so “them.”

Party Time: Candy, Pizza, and Truffles, Oh My!

Okay, can we talk about how much fun Nick and Katie’s reception was? They definitely knew how to keep the energy high. From the moment the ceremony ended, it was time to PARTY!!! The couple brought all the fun with a candy snack bar that had guests (and us!) sneaking treats all night long. And if that wasn’t enough, there was also late-night pizza and the most amazing truffles I’ve ever had. Seriously, those truffles were to die for!

And let’s not forget the epic dance floor. Thanks to Bring It On Entertainment, the DJ kept everyone moving, grooving, and laughing all night long. Between the music, the pizza, and the candy, the vibe was laid-back, fun, and exactly what Nick and Katie had hoped for.

A Wedding Day to Remember

At the end of the day, what makes a wedding truly magical isn’t the weather, the perfect sunset, or even the dress (though Katie’s Maggie Sottero gown is unforgettable!). It’s the people, the love, and the way a couple navigates the unexpected together. Nick and Katie embodied all of that. Their calmness under pressure, their teamwork, and their ability to go with the flow created a wedding day that will be remembered not just for the rain, but for the joy, laughter, and love that filled every moment.

Katie and Nick, you two are truly one of a kind. We’re so honored to have been a part of your special day and can’t wait to see all the adventures you’ll take on as a married couple. Here’s to many more stormy nights and even more magical memories!

Vendors: 

Venue: Sanders Mansion Estate 
Catering, Coordination + Florals: Blue Ribbon Cooking 
DJ: Bring It On Entertainment 
Dress: Maggie Sottero 
Dress Shop: I Do Bridal 
Grooms + Groomsmen Attire: Generation Tux
Bridesmaids Attire: Birdy Grey
Photo/Video: Markie Jones Photography LLC

You can catch more of our adventures on social media: 
Instagram: @markiejonesphotographyllc 
Facebook: Markie Jones Photography LLC