By Barbara Wade © 2010, All Rights Reserved

You’ve finally met the man of your dreams. You’ve chosen the perfect dress, a stunning ring, and invited your friends and family to help you celebrate on this joyous occasion. All that remains is to select the ideal location. When it comes to gorgeous wedding venues, no other city can compare to Portland. Hotel suites cater to new brides and grooms – and their guests – and the gorgeous scenery in and around Portland makes the City of Roses a truly romantic destination.

Portland’s Natural Beauty is a Dazzling Backdrop for any Celebration

The International Rose Test Garden provides a stunning setting for those pre-wedding photographs. No flower says romance like the rose, and only in Portland will you find more than 7,000 plants all in one location. Wander hand in hand through the garden while the photographer captures magical candid shots, or pose for formal portraits with your wedding party. When you’ve finished, be sure to stop by the Rose Garden Shop to pick up rose-themed wedding favors such as confections shaped like this elegant flower. Your guests will love having these locally made delicacies to remind them of their visit to the City of Roses and of your special day.

For the wine-loving bride and groom, Portland offers some of the country’s best vintages. The Willamette Valley wine region is Oregon’s largest, home to 200 wineries and 12,000 acres of grapes. Dedicated to sustainable growing, the vineyards of Oregon take pride in their organic, biodynamic and salmon-safe farming practices. You’ll savor the richness of the wine even more when you know it was produced in an environmentally conscious manner. Not only that, but you’ll be able to choose local vintages to serve at your rehearsal dinner, reception, and with brunch the following day. And don’t forget to pick out a special bottle just for the two of you to share.
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