Spokane Wedding Photographer Captures a Real Wedding at The Wild Rabbit
As a Spokane wedding photographer, I get to witness so many love stories that are as unique as the people living them. Olivia and Lukas’s wedding at The Wild Rabbit in Clayton, Washington—just 30 minutes north of Spokane—was full of joy, laughter, and heartfelt moments. It was the kind of celebration that makes the Spokane wedding scene so vibrant and personal.
A Summer Camp Beginning
Olivia and Lukas first met while working at a summer camp in Montana. Though they had crossed paths the summer before, it wasn’t until the following year that Lukas’s quiet humor began to shine through and catch Olivia’s attention. What started as shared laughter over inside jokes soon blossomed into something deeper.
How They Knew It Was Forever
During their senior year of college, Olivia and Lukas maintained a long-distance relationship. Then, during a trip to Chicago, Olivia realized she never wanted to be apart from Lukas again. As they explored the city, people-watched, and enjoyed every moment together, the ease and joy of their relationship became crystal clear. That very night, Lukas expressed the same feeling—this was it for both of them.
A Thanksgiving Proposal to Remember
The proposal happened over Thanksgiving, surrounded by Lukas’s family in an unexpectedly emotional moment. After sharing what he was thankful for, Lukas—tears in his eyes—got down on one knee. Olivia was stunned and overjoyed. Despite having talked about marriage, she didn’t expect it that day. Her headache vanished, and happy tears flowed for an hour.
Why They Chose The Wild Rabbit for Their Spokane Wedding
Even though Olivia and Lukas don’t live in Spokane, they knew they wanted an outdoor wedding with a mountain backdrop. That made The Wild Rabbit in Clayton, WA—just outside Spokane—the perfect fit. The venue’s boho charm, with long wooden tables and mismatched chairs, brought their vision to life. Most importantly, it resonated with their shared love for nature and the outdoors, which played a key role in their relationship’s early days.
Faith, Family, and Personalized Traditions
Their ceremony was full of intentional and meaningful Christian traditions. Lukas’s mentor and youth pastor, Gabe Linquist, officiated the wedding. Before the ceremony, Olivia shared an emotional first look with her dad. Then, during the ceremony, the bridal party gathered around the couple in prayer. Following the ceremony, Olivia and Lukas took communion privately while signing their marriage license—a moment of quiet intimacy and faith.
The Importance of Photography
For Olivia and Lukas, wedding photography wasn’t just another checklist item—it was essential. Olivia wanted images that could bring her back to the emotions of the day: the joyful walk down the aisle, the quiet connection with her dad, and the celebratory energy of the reception. As a Spokane wedding photographer, it’s always an honor to document these real, emotional moments in a way that helps couples relive them for years to come.
Advice from the Couple
“Have fun. Focus on what’s important to you and your fiancé. Don’t worry about doing things the ‘right’ way—do what feels right for you. Plan the day with love, not stress.”
Spokane Wedding Vendors That Brought the Day Together
- Venue: The Wild Rabbit in Clayton, WA
- Officiant: Gabe Linquist
- Florals: Poppy
- Catering: Green Bluff Catering
- Cake + Cookies: Sweet Frostings
- Dress: House of Bridal OKC
Looking for a Spokane Wedding Photographer?
If you’re planning your wedding in Spokane or anywhere in the surrounding Inland Northwest, and you’re looking for a Spokane wedding photographer who prioritizes connection, comfort, and genuine storytelling, I’d be honored to be considered. Whether you’re envisioning a celebration at a venue like The Wild Rabbit or planning something uniquely your own, your day deserves to be captured with care, intention, and artistry.
I’m Kristina, the wedding photographer behind Arch and Elm Photography. I work with couples across Spokane, Coeur d’Alene, Seattle, and Portland who care deeply about storytelling, connection, and feeling comfortable in front of the camera.
Visit archandelm.com to learn more or inquire about your date!
