ROMANTIC FAIRYTALE WEDDING AT THORNEWOOD CASTLE| A Photographer’s Perspective | Tiffany Stumpf Photography
- Tiffany Stumpf Photography
- Mar 25
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 25
When it comes to storybook wedding venues, Thornewood Castle in Lakewood, Washington, is a dream come true. With its breathtaking Tudor-style architecture, lush gardens, and stunning waterfront views, this historic estate is the perfect backdrop for an elegant and romantic wedding. As a wedding photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing unforgettable love stories at this one-of-a-kind venue. In this post, I’ll share the highlights of a recent Thornewood Castle wedding, along with tips for couples planning their special day here.
A Fairytale Setting: The Beauty of Thornewood Castle
Built over 100 years ago, Thornewood Castle is a rare gem on the West Coast, offering a timeless elegance that transports couples and guests to a bygone era. From its intricate stained-glass windows to the charming courtyard and English gardens, every corner of this venue is designed for romance. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, Thornewood Castle provides an enchanting setting for your wedding day.
A Love Story Captured at Thornewood Castle
Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing Iris & Dan's wedding at Thornewood Castle, and every detail was straight out of a fairy tale. What made this wedding even more special was the beautiful blending of cultures – the bride, of Chinese heritage, and the groom, of Romanian background, incorporated meaningful traditions from both sides into their celebration.
The bride walked down the aisle in the sunken English Garden, surrounded by vibrant florals and the castle’s majestic facade. Later, during the reception in the historic great hall, lively Romanian dances brought everyone to their feet, creating an incredible atmosphere of joy and unity. As the sun set over American Lake, we captured golden hour portraits that radiated warmth and intimacy.
The Best Photo Spots at Thornewood Castle
For couples dreaming of stunning wedding photos, Thornewood Castle offers endless opportunities. Here are some of the best locations to capture picture-perfect moments:
The Grand Staircase: Perfect for dramatic first-look shots.
The Sunken Garden: A lush and colorful setting for romantic portraits.
The Lakeside Dock: Breathtaking sunset and reflection shots.
The Castle Interior: Vintage, moody, and elegant – perfect for getting-ready shots and reception ambiance.
The Hall of Mirrors: A breathtaking space with ornate detailing and stunning reflections, ideal for artistic and dramatic portraits.
Tips for Planning Your Wedding at Thornewood Castle
If you’re considering this historic wedding venue, here are a few tips to make the most of your big day:
Book Early: Thornewood Castle is a sought-after venue, so secure your date well in advance.
Consider the Season: Spring and summer offer lush gardens, while fall provides a rich, warm color palette.
Plan for the Weather: While the castle offers beautiful indoor settings, having a rain plan is always a good idea.
Golden Hour Magic: Schedule portrait sessions during golden hour for the most magical lighting.
Embrace the Venue’s Charm: Opt for classic, elegant decor that complements the castle’s historic beauty.
Incorporate Cultural Traditions: If you and your partner come from different backgrounds, find meaningful ways to blend traditions, making your wedding even more special.
Why Thornewood Castle is a Dream Venue
As a photographer, I can confidently say that Thornewood Castle is one of the most breathtaking wedding venues in Washington. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and fairytale ambiance make it the perfect place for couples who want a wedding straight out of a storybook.
If you’re planning your wedding at Thornewood Castle and are looking for a photographer to capture your love story, I’d love to help! Contact me today to discuss your vision and how we can make your wedding photography dreams come true.
Interested in seeing more weddings at Thornewood Castle? Check out my portfolio for more wedding inspiration!