the san juan islands are one of my favorite places in the entire pnw. here you get that slow island life, salty breezes, epic orca sightings (!!), and dreamy sunsets. if you’ve ever thought about having a destination wedding without hopping on a plane to another country, this is it.

imashi + gianarro chose the islands for their wedding after already being legally married on zoom years ago (pandemic life, am i right?). this celebration was all about finally bringing both of their families together in one place after years apart. with gianarro’s family spread across states and and imashi’s parents + sister traveling all the way from sri lanka, their san juan islands wedding day was a once-in-a-lifetime gathering

bride and groom at the lighthouse in san juan islands

bride and groom next to the iconic lighthouse in san juan islands

a non-traditional micro wedding

although imanshi & gianarro were already married, they knew they wanted to bring their families together in person for a true celebration. these two skipped the big wedding traditions and focused on what actually mattered to them, which was - family, food, and fun. the san juans gave them the chance to host 40 of their closest people in one breathtaking spot with rocky coastlines, a historic lighthouse, and ferry ride adventures.

they didn’t want to have a bridal party, first look, or a big production. just vows overlooking the ocean at lime kiln state park, enjoying an intimate garden reception at tucker house inn, and tearing up the dance floor into the night. this is what i love about micro weddings! they feel intentional, relaxed, and so much more about connection.

ceremony at the lime kiln point state park

their ceremony took place right on the cliffs at lime kiln point state park. with the lighthouse as a backdrop and the olympic mountains hazy in the distance, it doesn’t get more iconic northwest than this.

this park is famous for the lighthouse (and orcas cruising by if you’re lucky!). it’s open to the public, so yes, summer days can get busy! but with a little patience and careful planning, we found quiet corners around the park, and even had private access to the lighthouse while guests were mingling during the cocktail hour.

you can learn more about getting your event permit for the lighthouse here!

lime kiln point state park wedding ceremony overlooking the ocean

bride posing next to the light house at lime kiln park

bride and groom at the lighthouse in lime kiln point state park

bride inside the lighthouse in lime kiln point state park

reception at tucker house inn

back in friday harbor, tucker house inn has the dreamiest backyard garden for receptions. twinkle lights hanging over head, long tables full of bright summer florals, and sri lankan wedding cake boxes (a family tradition) waiting at each place setting. these are the kind of personal touches that make a day unforgettable.

their reception kicked off with the lighting of a sri lankan oil lamp, which is a tradition symbolizing unity & new beginnings. later there was dancing, bubble guns, flip-flops for the dance floor, and so much laughter. it felt like the best backyard party, only elevated.

colorful wedding reception set up at tucker house inn

candid wedding reception moments at tucker house inn

an intentionally simple san juan islands wedding day

one of my favorite things about imashi + gianarro’s day was how intentionally simple it was. they weren’t detail-obsessed with décor or color schemes. instead, they leaned into what the islands already offered: bright blue skies and waters at lime kiln for their ceremony, lush greenery at the reception, and pops of color from their summer wildflower florals. it felt effortless and true to them.

their portraits were a big priority, because they wanted the natural beauty of the san juans to be part of their story. wandering the cliffs, tucking into hidden trails, and stealing quiet moments at the lighthouse gave them images that reflected their love and the gorgeous place they chose to celebrate it.

ready to plan your own san juan islands wedding or elopement?

getting married on the san juan islands is about slowing down, being intentional, and celebrating in a place where nature does most of the decorating for you. if you’re dreaming of a wedding day that feels intimate, adventurous, and different from the norm, getting married on the san juan islands might just be perfect for you.

and if you’re still looking for your dream wedding photographer, i’d love to help you craft your own san juan islands story! click here to get in touch.

for more tips, venues and everything you need to know, check out my complete guide to getting married on the san juan islands here!