In the wake of the protests in 2020, we realized how far behind the wedding industry is in supporting Black Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) vendors and artisans. The industry is white-washed, and we know that we contribute to that. The wedding industry has a lot of money pouring into it, and we feel it’s important to be intentional about where those investments are going. In reflecting throughout the last part of 2020, we want to use our platform to promote BIPOC vendors and their voices. Throughout the next year, you will see a variety of guest blogs from some of our favorite people to work with. For now, we are recommending some of our favorite BIPOC vendors in the Pacific Northwest for you to consider when planning your future marriage celebrations.

IKE & TASH

photography // Ike + Tash Haynes // instagram

We like photographers with a clear point of view, and Ike & Tash are those kinds of artists. Self-described as sassy, bold, edgy, and urban, they enjoy capturing all kinds of LIFE moments through their lenses. In weddings, their ethos is to capture a true representation of your love: “two people, two hearts, two tribes, for eternity”. What we love even more is that they are passionate educators, reinvesting and growing their community and industry through affordable education opportunities in photography and entrepreneurship. If you want a stellar family duo rooted in community values to capture your edge, then we cannot recommend any pair more highly.

HENRY TIEU PHOTOGRAPHY

elopement photography // Henry Tieu // instagram

Photos that make you feel deeply is only the beginning. If you are a dreamer, someone who is spiritually connected, or a person who finds depth and feeling in every moment, then you will resonate with Henry’s work. With a background as an ICU nurse and a passion for photography, Henry’s elopement style captures emotion and authenticity in every photo. Rather than forced posing or flashy subject matter, Henry has a talent for capturing intimacy and connection. We love his work and have enjoyed following along on his creative journey over the years. If you’re looking for profound human connection through photography, Henry is your person.

THAT BROWN GIRL COOKS

catering // Kristi Brown + Marcie Hendricks // instagram

This is more than catering; it’s a full blown culinary brand. That Brown Girl Cooks creates for every style of meal from events to food products to restaurants to catered lunches. They meld traditional Soul Food with worldly inspiration and fresh ingredients, drawing on the head chef’s favorite memories and adventures. In all things she does, Kristi promises a wealth of personality, and we can personally vouch that she delivers. During the pandemic and public health crisis, this team has been operating as a community kitchen, serving free meals to the community every Thursday and Saturday in Seattle and putting their community spirit in action to reduce food scarcity. They are also collaborating in the new black-owned restaurant Communion. We acknowledge this business not only for its great food, but extend our love and adoration for being community-focused and examples of mission-based leaders.

BROWN SUGAR BAKING COMPANY

vegan dessert // instagram

Looking for vegan deliciousness? Look no further. Brown Sugar Baking Company dishes up purely vegan desserts free from the big 8 food allergens, straight out of their commercial kitchen. They are mindful of choosing ingredients that are in-season and organic throughout the year. They prioritize freshness above all else when putting together a catering menu with clients. We love how thoughtful they are about dietary lifestyle choices while delivering on a promise of quality and beauty.

BALLARD BEER COMPANY

drank + venue // Greg + Lena Anderson // instagram 

If you’re a Seattle resident, chances are you know about Ballard Beer Company’s Bottle Shop and Tap Room. The Ballard neighborhood plays host to a number of brewers and has a big beer culture, and Ballard Beer Company keeps those Ballard brews and other PNW beers and ciders on tap for all to enjoy. They also host events in their modern, open, and relaxed space, while still supporting their community. Their Pints with a Purpose program has donated over $2,000 to local organizations and social causes. We love them for being just as community minded as they are a community staple!

LAURY BRIDE

Outfits // Laurie Underwood // instagram

Okay, maybe we’re cheating on this one a bit. Laury Bride is technically located in Chicago, but with a lovely digital storefront, we feel like they’re right here in our living room in Seattle. In their own words: “Laury Bride is the mirror to the non-quintessential, yet very essential bride, who desires a true style option, representation, and celebration of her vibe on her wedding day.” In our words: We love a designer who can create interchangeable separates that span from rich and feminine to structured and masculine. Anyone who can pair a billowy sleeve with a pant as flawlessly as an avant garde corset with a fishtail skirt is an artist. Their approach gives brides the opportunity to wear multiple looks throughout their day while reusing pieces between outfits; the perfect solution to practice self-expression on your special day. Want to meet Laurie from the comfort of your own home? You can book a custom c

VALERIE MADISON

jewelry // Valerie Madison // instagram

This jewelry speaks for itself. Valerie comes from a local environmental science background (go Huskies!), marrying her love for the natural world with contemporary technology and skillful artistry. Passionate for individuality, her designs celebrate the beauty of nontraditional pieces like salt-and-pepper diamonds, rose-cut diamonds, uniquely shaped stones, vibrant hues, and gemstones. She uses hand-selected stones and recycled metals in every design, making each piece of art tailored to the individual wearer. We love her environmental mission in using ethically-sourced and recycled materials, as well as educating customers on how they can put the environment first with their dollar.

ANNY CHOW STUDIO

hair + makeup // Anny Chow + Andy Tseng // instagram

Anny cut her teeth in the New York fashion and bridal world. Today she graces our West Coast shores with her makeup artistry. Both her and her hair stylist partner, Andy Tseng, are passionate about creating a natural look that you can confidently own on your day. Anny’s goal is to connect deeply with the person in the chair and create an environment that sets brides up for success to enjoy their celebration. She is fantastic at sharing her lovely personality while also reading the energetic in the room to create a comfortable, mindful getting ready space. She owns her own studio, where she also offers waxing and eyelash services. Paired with the convenience of also offering onsite services, we love recommending this duo for the adventurous, off-the-grid lovers.

WILDFLOWER PORTLAND

florist // Chas Thompson Thomas // instagram

From the moment you see this website, we know our words will no longer matter. So before you get there, give us a moment to sing Chas’ praises. She is a fun professional florist who brings youthful curiosity and charisma to all her designs. Chas enjoys finding creative ways to save you money while also delivering on a beautiful event, “making you feel celebrated in the company of gorgeous flowers.” She is passionate about her home state of Oregon and community, takes cutting from her very own rose bushes, and provides TONS of free information and inspiration on her online blog. Permission to go stalk her work, and good luck pulling yourself out of that beautiful rabbit hole!

SIMPLY UNIQUE EVENT RENTALS

rentals // Hayley Bradshaw // instagram

If you’re looking for a collection of thoughtfully curated furniture, props, and backdrops, then Simply Unique Event Rentals is a fantastic first stop. Based in the Kitsap Peninsula, you can find this collection at just about every open house and styled shoot in the area. Hayley is a community-centered business owner whose goal is to avoid, eliminate, and reduce the costs that her valued customers simply don’t care about. She is always on the hunt for items that are versatile or trending, allowing her to tailor an inventory list to your unique style. We love the individualized attention and care she gives to her clients and always look forward to connecting with this wonderful business.

— Kate, Tapestry Creative Director