Last Thursday, I attended the Art of Weddings at the LUXE Autohaus in Portland. I spent the better part of the evening either a) feeling like I was too far along in the planning process to really be there, or b) wishing that an event like this had taken place eight months ago because I could’ve booked 90% of my vendors in one stop. And I went to the event alone, so that was kind of a drag. But there were fun parts too: Tons of vendors who are new on the scene (in business for a year or less), half a dozen independent wedding dress designers, and lots of yummy treats to sample. And not that I’m any kind of Portland aficionado (hope to get there one day), but for whatever reason, I rarely venture into southeast Portland — especially not to go to luxury car showrooms — so it was a little adventure too.

One of the big highlights was the Noah Peterson jazz trio (pictured above). How I didn’t find these guys online when I was looking for a jazz band, I’ll never know. (Maybe they need a little SEO from a trusty web designer…) Peterson Entertainment has a myriad of different jazz ensembles of various sizes and styles.

Missionary Chocolates is amazing. Only in Portland would you find vegan chocolate truffles that taste this good. I tried them all and, seriously, you would never guess you were eating something without any animal products. I couldn’t choose a favorite, although the cinnamon chipotle (second row, far right) is a stand-out for uniqueness. Super spicy and flavorful.

I couldn’t believe that Oh Baby Lingerie was giving out $50 gift certificates, but I’m planning to check them out this weekend to see if I can find a bustier for my wedding dress fitting. I tried to get some photos of their pieces in the fashion show, but I was too far away to get any decent pictures of the runway. Both Oh Baby and Lille Boutique had pieces in the show, and they both used models of varying ages and body types. I give them huge kudos for that.

Swanky Tables had a great candy station set up, complete with vintage favorites like rock candy. They coordinate all kinds of small events — bridal showers, bachelorette parties, wine tastings, etc. — and they also provide standalone elements, like candy stations, for larger events. I think it’s completely brilliant to find a niche market and focus on the details. Annette clearly has a vibrant, fun aesthetic, and I bet she’d be a blast to work with.

I wasn’t just about the food, I promise, but Pure Sweet is definitely going in my mental rolodex. I’m planning to DIY the edible favors for our wedding, but if I run out of time, that is something I’d like to pass off into their very capable hands. I just ate one of their cookies this afternoon and it was pure, rich chocolately goodness.

One of my hands-down favorites of the evening was Duchess Clothier. Their business cards, their collateral, everything is so unbelievably well done. And in the fashion show, they had actual customers modeling their custom suits — these adorable guys in their pinstripe, patterned, and even mustard-yellow velvet suits. Too cute.

Speaking of which, I was really impressed by all the custom wedding attire designers. The fashion show showcased so many dress styles that you’d never see anywhere else. I am constantly inspired by the talent I see in Portland, especially in areas like art, craft and clothing design.

Oh, and did I mention that Duck Pond was there giving away complimentary glasses of wine? And brides got to keep their wine glasses. I highly recommend the next Art of Weddings to any bride-to-be in the Portland metro, or anyone else who wants to check out some of the freshest, most original vendors in the Pacific Northwest.