Curated Love & Luxury at the Allison Inn and Spa in Newberg

'Wow' moments are always in season, as displayed in this elegant editorial that brims with creative flair, lovely touches and immaculate attention to detail.

Written by

Chelsea Gibson

Published:

Oregon Bride Fall/Winter 2023

When one stumbles upon the absolute hidden gem of Newberg, The Allison Inn & Spa, your mind can’t help but race at the possibility it holds for hosting a great event. Tranquil grounds, the utmost attention to detail throughout the entire resort, a world-class spa and unparalleled dining experiences—it truly has all the makings for one incredible wedding weekend.

Ashley Lachney, Alston Mayger Events

Inspiration lies around every corner at The Allison Inn & Spa, which features extensive indoor and outdoor art collections, originally envisioned by late owner Joan Austin and curated by her daughter Loni Parrish. And for Ashley Lachney of Alston Mayger Events, taking the reins of this styled shoot was personal; she married her husband, Garrett, at the very same location in 2017.

“What I love about weddings at The Allison is how thoughtful the staff is in their execution. Every detail is captured during planning meetings to ensure that there’s a truly seamless day between all staff and vendors alike,” says Lachney. She recalls a time when she and her husband were planning their wedding and mentioned offhandedly that they didn’t drink alcohol very often. Magically, as the meeting evolved into their tasting, zero-proof beverages appeared, including a mocktail version of the signature cocktail they were planning to serve at the reception. “They pay attention in the best way to ensure the best experience. It can’t be taught.”

Designer and owner Jolene Zaniewski of Trellis Creative Co. created a vibrant stationery suite and corresponding signage emulating the modern lines of the exterior of the resort.

Even the textured place cards she designed echoed the pattern found on the back of The Allison’s room keys—a true kismet moment that left each vendor feeling like the universe was aligning, as Zaniewski had never seen the room keys before that day.

"When you’re working at a place this beautiful, it’s already given you such a solid foundation to work off. It’s our job to ensure we’re highlighting all of that beauty through the design," Jodi Iverson said. When approaching the floral elements for this styled shoot, Jodi Iverson of Jodi Iverson Florals took cues from the property to create a warm color palette and a playful design. “I utilized toffee and honey Dijon roses, coral tulips, lilac orchids and strawberry butterfly ranunculus to represent a vibrant fall palette,” she says. “Everything was designed to really complement the interior and exterior of the resort and grounds.”

For the bride’s styling, Lachney went straight to Liz Martinez Bridal for a dress worthy of a fashion icon. “I’m seeing folks make much bolder decisions when it comes to attire these days, which I love,” she says. The “Penelope” gown was accessorized with chic pumps from Bella Belle Shoes, and a 6.47-carat pear-shaped engagement ring, diamond earrings, tennis bracelet and ring from Packouz Jewelers heightened the decadence.

Cassandra Kennedy created a romantic updo reminiscent of Pamela Anderson’s iconic bun, and soft makeup with a pop of color on the lips pulled in the colors of the bridal bouquet. A custom veil and blusher from Portland veil maker Katie Valleau of Tailored Tulle contributed a whimsical finishing touch.

The groom was kitted out in a smart tux from Stitch & Tie and wore a wedding band from Packouz Jewelers.

The pastry chef at The Allison crafted a dessert display that was not only breathtakingly beautiful, but served as a masterful example of local patissiere. Staged by executive chef Jack Strong, the array offered house-made truffles, cookie bars, dessert breads and other bite-size takeaways, all of which highlighted the flavors of the Pacific Northwest.

The reception scene in the Coppergold Ballroom featured tables dressed with linens from Nüage Designs that bore the same 3D floral appliqués found on the bridal gown.

Golden place settings and refined chairs from Arden Event Collective completed the dreamy setting, and uplighting on the wall cast an ambient glow on the space.

For photographer Rithy Tamba of RTFaith Photography, the photogenic venue made the shooting experience memorable. “The grounds are beautifully curated with lush gardens and stunning architecture, making it a dream location to photograph. Its beauty and charm provide an abundance of opportunity for stunning photos,” she says. “I utilized the grounds to not only create romantic shots of the couple surrounded by the lushness of the Pacific Northwest, but incorporated the unique lighting design indoors within the foyer and ballrooms to produce some sensational portraits." Ashley Lachney reflected on the shoot, "It takes a village, truly. I say every time we tackle one of these projects together that I’m so glad I live within the PDX event industry. Everyone is so willing to help, loves fiercely and shows up for each other. I mean, if we can create this much magic and beauty with an editorial, imagine what your wedding could look like."