While at a freshman orientation event at Pepperdine University, Kumudu Weeratunga randomly picked Alex Morris’ tie from a basket, making him her date for the evening as per tradition. “We hit it off pretty much right away,” Alex shares. Six years later, Kumudu and Alex traveled to the South of France, where Alex proposed to his beloved while visiting the royal palace in Monaco. 

With 10 months to plan their nuptials, the pair made sure to hire a professional. “Having a full-time planner definitely helped relieve our stress, and it made the wedding planning experience really fun and enjoyable,” shares Kumudu. “Everything about our day was so perfect because she took the time to understand what my vision was for the wedding, and she exceeded our expectations in every way.”

The pair – who now reside in Boston – chose a venue in Portland, Oregon, so the locale would be convenient for their in-town guests as well as those traveling. They decided upon an art museum in the city since it allowed them to have the both the ceremony and reception onsite. “It was beautiful, unique, and checked all our boxes,” addes the bride. 

To honor Kumudu’s heritage, she wore a traditional Sri Lankan wedding sari and jewelry for the elegant and timeless celebration. Following the vow exchange, she changed into a red lengha choli for the reception. The space was awash in white, blush, and gold hues; three large floral chandeliers comprised of ivory orchids down the center of the hall stunned guests. “I wanted arrangements that were glamorous and unique, which is why I was really drawn to the look of floral chandeliers. They’re so beautiful but not over-the-top, which is pretty in line with my personality,” shares the bride.

Though they paid attention to the beautiful details of their celebration, Kumudu encourages other couples to focus on what guests will remember. “People don’t often remember the finer details of your wedding, but they will remember if the food was good and if there was plenty to drink,” she smiles. “I was very happy with how everything turned out. It was the perfect day.”