Andrea & Austin’s intimate Anker wedding and why they have no regrets about going small

In July, delightful Oregonians Andrea and Austin held their intimate, mid-week wedding at Anker. Despite some initial trepidation around keeping their wedding small, in this Q+A they express no regrets.

Photos by the always exquisite J+L Photography

Q+A

Why did you decide to go small?

We chose to keep our wedding very small because we wanted the day to feel deeply personal and meaningful. We didn’t want to be overwhelmed by a room full of people we barely knew. Instead, we got to focus entirely on the people who truly matter to us. There was no pressure to perform or impress—just love, intention, and presence in every moment.

Andrea + Austin chose Anker's “new” Frame for their intimate wedding ceremony. Built from 200-year-old wood salvaged from the Port of Oakland, the wood’s faded white patina complements the pond’s natural setting.

You live in Oregon; why did you choose Anker?

We chose Anker because it captured everything we imagined for our wedding day. It felt warm and welcoming—like home—with breathtaking views that made the whole experience feel magical. Most importantly, it brought all of our loved ones together under one roof, the perfect place to build deeper connections through delicious meals and late-night laughter. It was everything we hoped for and more.

What advice do you have for couples who feel drawn to holding a very small wedding, but are nervous about it?

If you’re feeling nervous, ask yourself—who is this wedding really for? At the end of the day, it’s about you and your partner. You’re the ones who will carry those memories for a lifetime. Choosing something more intimate gives you the space to be fully present, to be yourselves, and to let go of the pressure to impress a crowd. [Austin's] favorite part was waking up and placing custom made newspapers on each door of our guests. This was a great way to start the day!

What was your favorite part of the day?

Austin: Wandering around the property for our photos! The change from our arch at the pond to having a full lavender farm made our wedding photos so unique. Having an elopement style wedding also allows you to enjoy the house. It’s huge and photo worthy in every room.

Andrea: SO many favorite parts! One was definitely our private vows/first touch. It was a perfect way to get the before-the-ceremony jitters out. Another one of my favorite memories was our reception—my dad was ecstatic making tacos, our guests got their alebrijes and loteria cards with special little messages for them, and our table was full of conversations and laughter. It was just perfect.

Any tips for other couples?

Austin: Make your own wedding cake! The night before, my wife and I baked a small cake just for the two of us. It was such a fun, memorable experience—something we got to create together. Not only did it save us money, but it made the day feel even more personal and meaningful. P.S.: Our cake toppers were all things from home—we dried our own orange slices, the flowers were dried from when we started dating, plus we added the Lego version of us.

Andrea: Before buying things you’ll only use once, take a moment to reflect on what you already have at home, what could be repurposed, or what friends and family might be able to lend. Not only did this help us save a lot of money, but it also made our wedding feel more intentional and personal—surrounded by pieces that already held meaning.

Is there anything else you'd like to add?

Talk to Matt! He kept us in the loop of all the [grounds] projects, provided recent photos of new areas, and helped pick great spots for photography and our arch. He knows the place better than anyone and is full of guidance. He’s seen countless weddings of different cultures and is respectful of new traditions!