Mike & Melissa's Nautical Wedding on the Virginia V: Stunning Boat Wedding Venue in Seattle
“The pictures are already AMAZING!!!!!!
I can’t wait to see the rest. I sent them to everyone
and they are loving them!!! ❤️❤️❤️”
Getting married on a boat?
BRIDAL SHOP: Lovely Bride Seattle | BRIDES SHOES : Birkenstocks | CATERING: Gourmondo | DJ: Wunderland Events | FLORIST: Daisy & Wish | BEAUTY TEAM: Off White Beauty | INVITATIONS: Zazzle | SHIP FLAG: Amazon Designer, Rosie Heffernan (Cousin of the Bride)| SEATTLE WEDDING BOAT VENUE:Virginia V Steamship
Mike & Melissa's Nautical Wedding on the Virginia V:
Stunning Boat Wedding Venue in Seattle
As the radiant sun began to rise over Seattle on that warm summer day, all the elements aligned perfectly for Mike and Melissa’s dream wedding—a romantic and festive celebration aboard the majestic Virginia V steamship. This was not just another wedding; it was a nautical wedding that immersed everyone in love, laughter, and the serene beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
The anticipation filled the air as guests arrived at South Lake Union Park, where the wedding festivities were about to begin. Guests could feel the gentle breeze of the lake accompanied by the sound of water lapping against the historic wooden ships nestled in the wharf. Many of them eagerly took selfies by a charming navy and white welcome sign that Melissa and Mike had prepared, setting the tone for a wedding that was a unique fusion of elegance and fun. Each invitation to the wedding was custom-designed by Melissa herself on Zazzle, cleverly styled to resemble tickets for a wedding cruise in Seattle.
As the clock inched closer to the ceremony, guests grabbed drinks from the pre-ceremony bar, toasting to the couple as the Virginia V steamship prepared to depart from the docks. With a rich history and locally milled timber forming its structure, the Virginia V steamship was the quintessential boat wedding venue in Seattle.
Amid the joyful chaos, Mike and Melissa shared their intimate first look in South Lake Union Park, accompanied by their adorable little black dog, Zero. Their first look was disrupted in the most delightful way when Zero playfully photobombed their emotional moment, bringing laughter and delight. The joyful chaos of their wedding mirrored their genuine connection; there was something magnetic about their love that effortlessly drew everyone in.
After capturing stunning photographs on the dock—nestled against the backdrop of the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI)—the couple transitioned to the boat for the main event. The white, blue, and gold exterior of MOHAI offered a perfect nautical vibe alongside the couple’s cherished theme. There was an undeniable magic in the air as the couple posed for portraits, with the Seattle skyline and iconic Space Needle standing sentinel in the background.
The ceremony proudly unfolded on the bow of the Virginia V steamship, with the shimmering waters of South Lake Union as the setting. Seagulls accompanied the joyful sounds of union while kayakers and paddle boarders floated by, adding a touch of Seattle charm. As emotions ran high, a custom ivory canvas flag, adorned with the couple’s name in elegant navy blue calligraphy, rippled in the gentle breeze. The flag was made by the brides cousin, Rosie Heffernan. The scene was idyllic—a vivid tableau of love under the Seattle sky.
With family and friends gathered around, Mike looked dapper in his classic navy suit, an ivory bowtie adorned with anchors, and sky-blue anchor socks. Meanwhile, Melissa stunned everyone in her A-line lace and sequin gown from Lovely Bride Seattle, featuring a daring deep V cutout. Accented by a multi-strand necklace and earrings handmade by a dear friend, with freshwater pearls and crystals echoing the hues of the ocean, Melissa radiated beauty. The nautical theme permeated every detail, creating not just a wedding on a boat in Seattle but an experience in romance.
After the “I dos” were exchanged, guests indulged in a delightful cocktail hour featuring an array of Pacific Northwest cuisine, including a raw oyster bar catered by the talented Gourmondo catering. Laughter and conversations flowed as guests shared heartfelt stories of the newlyweds amid colorful floral arrangements from Daisy & Wish, which showcased seasonal blooms in vibrant hues perfectly capturing the spirit of the day.
As the sun began to set, illuminating Lake Union with a golden hue, the celebration continued on the top deck of the Virginia V. The couple embraced their families and friends, capturing group photos with that stunning Seattle skyline in the background, embodying the joyous essence of their nautical wedding. The sense of belonging enveloped everyone present, as if the lake itself was celebrating alongside the couple.
Dinner was a beautiful buffet experience, hosted on the main level of the ship beneath crisp navy tablecloths adorned with layers of white linens and vibrant flower arrangements. The warmth in the air was filled with a unique nautical vibe—a perfect homage to the couple’s love story. Toasts filled the air with laughter, tears, and heartfelt sentiments, and the deep bonds shared were palpable.
As dessert beckoned, guests were treated to the couple’s wedding cake served ‘to go’ style as they disembarked the boat, an imaginative twist. The party continued at China Harbor Restaurant, where t floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing mesmerizing views of twinkling city lights reflected on the calm surface of the lake.
As the evening wore on and the jubilant vibes pulsated through the air, laughter echoed and memories were made. The couple took a moment to change into a more relaxed attire before letting loose on the dance floor. Leading the party was the exceptional Wunderland Events, whose electric DJ and MC services got the crowd PUMPED up and dancing the night away. They effortlessly filled the room with a symphony of exhilarating beats, ensuring the energy flowed through everyone present, making it an unforgettable experience.
Every detail at Mike and Melissa’s nautical wedding on the Virginia V Steamship resonated with their love story. Just as they had dreamed, from the handcrafted invitations to the carefully selected nautical decor, it unfolded beautifully before their eyes. Guests left with smiles on their faces, hearts full of joy, and the memories of a wedding cruise in Seattle that embraced the beauty of love, community, and the Pacific Northwest.
In the end, Mike and Melissa’s nautical-themed wedding was more than just an event; it was the merging of families, the celebration of love, and a reminder of the beauty found in life's most cherished moments. On the gleaming surface of South Lake Union and the iconic backdrop of Seattle, their love set sail as they began their new journey together—forever bonded under the very sky that had witnessed their vows, gracefully navigating through life's waters like they once navigated that special wedding day.
