Sarah and Joe’s wedding at Skyliner’s Lodge Oregon was the perfect mix of rustic charm, family connection, and Central Oregon beauty. I first met Sarah and her mom at a wedding show in January, and not long after I photographed Sarah and Joe’s engagement session along the Deschutes River. From the very beginning, I could see how much love these two shared, not only with each other but also with their four children. Their wedding day at this historic lodge tucked into the pines west of Bend was filled with joy, heartfelt moments, and the kind of warmth that comes from celebrating surrounded by family and friends.

Their rustic wedding took place at Skyliner’s Lodge Oregon, a historic ski lodge tucked among the pines just ten miles west of Bend. Although the ski hill is no longer active, the lodge now serves as a base for outdoor camps and a stunning venue for private events like weddings. With its dark timber walls, forested setting, and views of Tumalo Creek, Skyliner’s Lodge is a quintessential Central Oregon gem for couples looking for rustic charm and natural beauty.

Getting Ready at Skyliner’s Lodge

It was a gorgeous August day when I arrived to find Sarah and her bridesmaids finishing hair and makeup. Sarah had put so much care into the details of her wedding, including handmade signs she had crafted herself, and I loved photographing them before the celebrations began.

Meanwhile, Joe and his groomsmen were getting ready nearby, surrounded by the kind of love and support that only comes from lifelong friends and family.

Once the finishing touches were done, Sarah slipped into her gown while Joe waited outside for their first look. We tucked them into the tall pines around Skyliner’s Lodge Oregon for a quiet moment together before the ceremony began. Even though the timeline had drifted off track, they handled it with grace and joy. Their portraits radiated pure love, and having my second photographer there made it possible to capture those sweet moments quickly so the couple could head back for the ceremony.

Ceremony by Tumalo Creek

The outdoor ceremony site at Skyliner’s Lodge overlooks Tumalo Creek, and it is such a special place for an intimate wedding. Sarah and Joe’s ceremony was filled with love, laughter, and family. Their four children stood with them, symbolizing their blended family becoming one. It was a truly moving moment, surrounded by tall trees, mountain air, and the warmth of their closest loved ones.

A Celebration Under the Central Oregon Sky

After the vows, we captured family formals and bridal party portraits while guests enjoyed cocktails and music. As the sun set, everyone gathered outdoors for dinner. I took the opportunity to document more of the handcrafted details Sarah had poured her heart into, along with the joy that radiated from their guests.

The toasts that followed were heartfelt and emotional, with family and friends sharing words that brought tears to my eyes. Then came the dances, Sarah with her dad, Joe with his mom, and of course the newlyweds’ first dance. One of the songs even mirrored my own wedding day, which made it extra sentimental to capture.

Instead of a traditional cake, Sarah and Joe served pie, and cutting into them brought plenty of laughter. It was yet another example of how they made the day authentically theirs.

An Unforgettable Skyliner’s Lodge Oregon Wedding

From start to finish, Sarah and Joe’s day was filled with love, laughter, and community. Their Skyliner’s Lodge Oregon wedding highlighted everything that makes Central Oregon such a beautiful place to celebrate, towering pine trees, a rushing creek, and a cozy rustic lodge that feels both historic and intimate.

Sarah and Joe, it was such an honor to photograph your wedding. May your marriage continue to be filled with the same joy and devotion you shared on this unforgettable August day. Congratulations to you both!

For more photos of Sarah & Joe, check out their awesome engagement session! And for more rustic lodge wedding inspiration, check out Jenna & Tyler’s Lake Creek Lodge wedding in Camp Sherman, OR.

Vendors:

Photographer: Erica Swantek Photography

Venue: Skyliner’s Lodge

Wedding Gown & Suits: The Bridal Suite & Special Occasion

Bridesmaid Dresses: White Arbor Bridal & Formal

Flowers: Woodland Floral

Hair: Christina Jackson, Zante Salon & Spa

Makeup: Kim Nase

Catering and Bar Service: Bow Tie Catering

Pies: Shari’s

Tables & Chairs: Bend Party Rentals

Linens: NW Laundry Services

Officiant: Mark Worthington

Rings/Jewelry: Fred Meyer

Invitations: Alexa Nelson Prints

Decor: Bride’s own

If you’re dreaming of a wedding at Skyliner’s Lodge Oregon, I would love to capture every moment of your day in this stunning Central Oregon setting.