Everything You Need

No matter what time of year you plan your big day, be sure to have a backup for that chance of rain or clouds. Your wedding planner or venue coordinator will help you with backup plans as there is almost a guarantee that they have experience with unpredictable weather.

You can find almost all of what you need from a planner, officiant, florist, photographer, caterer, linen, and tableware rentals on the Island. Vashon has become a popular destination for weddings, and therefore, individuals and businesses have found ways to accommodate those looking to hold their weddings on the island. In addition to our comprehensive list, you can always ask around either on our Vashonites Facebook Group or just pop in for a drink at May’s Kitchen and Bar, The Hardware Store Restaurant, Gravy, or any other location and ask around. You’re almost guaranteed that you’ll either meet someone who has been married on the Island or at least knows someone who has.

Vashon Weather

The Island is a beautiful place for your Vashon Wedding, however there are some things you should be aware of before you commit to the Island for your important day. The weather is very much in line with typical Seattle weather, with the added wetness that you will find in a coastal town. Storms, rain, and unpredictable overcasts are common during our Fall and Winter months. As a result, most of the outdoor venues you see listed on our site will only offer their space from June through September. While the weather is not always guaranteed, when we experience clear skies and warmth, the Island is the most beautiful location you will ever experience. The best weeks of weather will generally fall in the last two weeks of July through the first two weeks of August. While the weather still is hit or miss during that time, you have a better chance of enjoying a nice day. Early July is almost always covered by clouds and rain (yes, even the Fourth of July). The last few weeks of June will often grace you with perfect days on occasion, with temperatures a bit more tolerable than they are in late July and early August. September will give you a bit f a chill, and if we’re having a wet summer you’re almost guaranteed rain, however there has been known to be a nice day or two.

10-12 Months Before

Budget This is the most important thing of all weddings. Communicate and decide what you’re willing to scrimp and save. Weddings on a tight budget can be easily done on Vashon, from a simple gathering at a park (be sure to coordinate with the parks department by email or phone at 206-463-9602) to booking a beautiful destination wedding at the Lodges.

Preliminary Guest List Start by keeping a number in mind so that you understand what size of venue you will need to accommodate everyone.

Wedding Party: Start picking your groomsmen and maids of honor. Your parents and closest friends will be notified. They can all certainly help you make your plans.

The Dress and Tux Once you have an idea of how you want to look for the wedding party, start looking through magazines for a dress style you like.

Wedding Planner Option If planning a wedding seems too stressful and time-consuming, hire a wedding planner who will take care of all the details!

Dance Lessons It has become a tradition for the bride and groom to take dancing lessons before the wedding. Not only does it allow them to show off their talents, but it also brings them closer together as a couple as a sort of therapy. 

6 to 9 Months Before

Create a Gift Registry You can set up a list and share it on Amazon.com, or speak with local businesses and gather your own list to share with your guests.

Photographer If a friend hasn’t offered to photograph your wedding by this time, you can choose from a local photographer, including Clara Perez.

Officiant The person who will perform your ceremony is extremely important and has a lot to say about who you are as a couple. If you don’t choose your church, there are a few non-traditional officiants in Vashon to choose from, including Pattie Hanmer, and Gator Lanphear.

Entertainment Hire a DJ or entertainer for the reception. Local Vashonite Allison Shirk is an excellent choice.

Hotel Block For guests and wedding parties coming from off-island, you will need a reliable location for them to stay. We have a comprehensive list with details and ratings for all the available properties on the Island. The Lodges is the Island’s only true hotel; however, if you’re looking to rent a complete home, there are many to choose from, including the Foxglove Lodge.

Transportation: Any type of vehicle that will be used for the wedding, such as limos or shuttles, must be reserved. 

3 to 5 Months Before

Rehearsal Dinner Plan and invite.

Wedding Favors Order guest wedding favors. The Vashon Pharmacy has items you can choose from and coordinate orders beforehand.

Flowers and decor are extremely important to a successful wedding, and you can find many florists in Vashon, from the Vashon Island Thriftway to the popular Herban Bloom, located just in town. There is also Delinda Mccann (the beautiful flower stand you see in Burton).

6 to 8 Weeks Before

Invitations Mail out invitations. You can mail them from the Post Office on Vashon; however, you might have better luck if you mail them from off-Island.

Marriage License King County Marriage License fees are $64 (last we checked). You can obtain your license on the Island at the Vashon Cmty. Service Center
10011 SW Bank Rd.
Vashon, WA 98070
Ph: 206.477.6659
They are open between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Tuesdays.

3 to 5 Weeks Before

Confirmation Confirm with all vendors the details of the ceremony and reception. Pay any deposits that haven’t been covered yet, and discuss details with them, including arrival time and any special requests you might have.

1 to 2 Weeks Before

Guest Count: Have the final guest count for the caterer.

Confirm Times Confirm all times, one last time, with vendors and bridal party.

1 Day Before

The Night Before, Make sure everything is laid out and ready to go. This includes the license, rings, dress, makeup, and a bridal emergency kit.