Margaret and Jon hosted a gorgeous mid-July wedding at Canlis Restaurant, one of Seattle’s most sophisticated reception venues – and now one of my favorite event spaces in the area! From getting ready in Queen Anne and exchanging vows at Parson’s Gardens, to their first dance and a delicious three-course meal at Canlis, every moment of this day was such a privilege to be a part of.

Margaret & Jon’s Refined Wedding at Canlis Restaurant

A classy summertime celebration in Seattle

I was so thrilled when these two first reached out, telling me that they’d actually wanted to hire me after seeing the photos I took at one of Margaret’s best friend’s weddings. It always means so much when I get to work with friends or loved ones of a previous couple; it feels like we already have a meaningful connection from the get-go.

Especially when it’s with people who are as incredible and talented as Margaret and Jon. They originally met as students at Juilliard, and now she’s a professional harpist who plays in symphonies around the world, and he works in the music production industry. What a pair! It was exciting to watch their personalities, passions, and love story play into the vision they shared for their wedding day: an elegant, classy celebration surrounded by their closest people. And not just a beautiful event for the sake of it, but an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience for everyone involved.

The big day started out at a house in Queen Anne, which Margaret had rented to get ready in with her bridesmaids. This was a wonderful neighborhood to spend the morning, with perfect views of the Space Needle and Seattle skyline!

First look & vows at Parsons Gardens

Once the bride and groom-to-be were both ready to go, Margaret and I headed to Parsons Gardens nearby, where Jon was waiting anxiously to see her. I loved this spot they chose for both the first look and their ceremony, as there was lush greenery everywhere we looked – as well as a really pretty spot nearby with views overlooking the sound. Perfect for gorgeous couples and wedding party portraits before the ceremony began!

Because Margaret and Jon’s reception venue, Canlis, doesn’t host ceremonies, they tied the knot at these gardens as well. Parsons is a stunning location for wedding ceremonies in Queen Anne: the gardens are secluded, pristine, and as private as you can get in the middle of the city. It’s ideal for intimate ceremonies prior to evening receptions or afterparties at venues, restaurants, or event spaces nearby like Canlis.

An elegant evening affair at Canlis Restaurant

Finally, we’ve arrived at the highlight (and most anticipated part) of the entire day: the wedding reception at Canlis Restaurant. This venue is such a cool space for a reception, especially for couples like Margaret and Jon who want the focus of the evening to be on dinner with mingling & speeches, rather than a dance party. While these two had a first dance after making their grand entrance, there was no other dancing throughout the evening; though they did, however, have a fabulous pianist who played background music while everyone mingled. We even had rooftop access, where we took golden hour photos before Margaret and Jon enjoyed their first course privately.

Despite the restaurant still being open for service while we celebrated in the private penthouse, it felt very private with a dedicated kitchen and waitstaff solely for Margaret and Jon’s event. Plus, with the help of the valet parking service, it was easy for everyone to get settled in rather than having to stress over finding spaces upon arriving. Canlis is truly the most gorgeous and unique space with views over Lake Union as the sun sets – it doesn't require much effort to dress up for a wedding, and I think that’s precisely why Margaret and Jon chose it!

Vendor List

Venue/Catering: Canlis Restaurant

Hair/Makeup: Anne Timss

Florist: Cle Elum Florals

Dress Designer: Sincerity Bridal

Dress Shop: Fiancée Bridal Boutique

Jewelry & Rings: Brilliant Earth / Verstolo

Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie

About Weddings at Canlis Restaurant

Canlis is easily one of the most spectacular wedding venues I’ve had the privilege of photographing, and is unlike any other in the area. This award-winning restaurant has been serving not only Seattle’s finest dining, but also an unforgettably luxurious experience for over 75 years now – and only continues to make even more of an impression on every guest it welcomes through its doors.

With two different private rooms, unparalleled views Lake Union, Gas Works Park, and the Cascade Mountains, and floor-to-ceiling windows, it’s no surprise that Canlis Restaurant has become one of the premier wedding venues in Seattle for couples seeking a stylish & private celebration.

Does Canlis host wedding ceremonies?

The only catch to Canlis: it is exclusively a reception venue that does not host ceremonies. However, there are plenty of accessible spots nearby that make for great ceremony sites, such as Parsons Gardens – where Margaret and Jon exchanged their vows.

Where can we have our reception at Canlis?

Canlis has a couple of different private event rooms to choose from, including the Penthouse and the Executive Room.

The Penthouse is the main reception venue, designed to host groups of 25-110 people in its 1,500-square-foot space. You’ll get access to a full-service bar, amazing scenery right from your seat in the dining room, panoramic lake and mountain views, and even a baby grand piano for some music in the background. The way the sun hits this room is incredible, shining golden rays onto every chair, table, and wall for a magical evening! And the fun doesn’t stop once it gets dark outside – the romantic, late-night candlelit ambiance at Canlis is pretty hard to beat.

The Executive Room is equally as striking, but is significantly smaller and meant for more intimate events. I’d recommend it if you’re having a group of 20 people or less, as it’s great for private cocktail hours or up close & personal seated dinners.

What is the guest capacity for weddings at Canlis?

Canlis can host weddings of up to 110 people in its private Penthouse room for a cocktail reception, or up to 80 people for a seated dinner.

How much does a wedding reception at Canlis cost?

The cost of your Canlis wedding will depend on various elements such as your group size, selected date, and the food & beverages you choose – but in general, here are the fees for weddings in the Canlis Penthouse room:

Room Fee: $500
Dinner starting at $135/person
Reception starting at $90/person
Food & Beverage Minimum: $8000

For up-to-date package and pricing information, email the Canlis event team at events@canlis.com.

Canlis Restaurant Wedding Photographer

Nothing would make me happier than returning to Canlis to photograph another special day like Margaret and Jon’s, with your love at the forefront this time. If you’re looking for someone who is friendly, easy-going, and detail-oriented, I’m your girl! Reach out here to get started – I cannot wait to hear from you!

Looking for more Seattle wedding venues to consider for your special day? I really enjoyed photographing Anna & Randy’s Elegant Seattle Wedding at the Washington Athletic Club!

Refined Summer Wedding at Canlis Restaurant