The Griffin House isn’t just a venue—it’s a vibe. Sitting on the cliffs of the Columbia River Gorge, this 120-year-old estate has that perfect mix of history, scenery, and straight-up cool factor. The first time I shot here, I was testing out some film, and when I got those images back, I was floored. This place makes it ridiculously easy to get stunning shots—like, it does half the work for you.

Why The Griffin House Just Hits Different

A Griffin House wedding isn’t just about the insane views—it’s about how it feels to be here. There’s something about standing on that cliffside, looking out at the gorge, that just stops you in your tracks. It’s peaceful, it’s powerful, and yeah, it makes for some next-level wedding photos.

As a photographer, I’m always looking for places that just work. The Griffin House is one of them. The natural light inside is a dream, so getting-ready shots are a breeze. Step outside, and you’ve got golden-hour portraits, ceremony shots with a killer backdrop, and a reception tent that lets you party with the view. Every part of this venue is set up to look incredible without feeling overdone.

A Wedding Day That Flows

Some venues make you work to get from one spot to another—not here. The Griffin House is laid out so that everything just makes sense. The ceremony site is right outside, the reception tent is a quick walk away, and there’s no weird logistical nightmare to deal with. That means more time enjoying the moment and less time stressing about where to go next.

The photos below were taking while second shooting for my good friend Kate Ames Photography with coordination by J29 Events and florals by Novella Theory.

editorial style couple walking away at the griffin house wedding in columbia river gorge

ceremony with a view of the columbia river gorge at the griffin house wedding in columbia river gorge

couple walking back up aisle at the griffin house wedding in columbia river gorge

couple embracing on dance floor at the griffin house wedding in columbia river gorge

Hood River: The Bonus Perk

What Makes The Griffin House Stand Out

Plenty of venues look good, but The Griffin House gets it right. The house has multiple levels for getting ready (no awkwardly running into your partner before the first look), and they require a planner or coordinator—meaning your day runs smoothly.

Oh, and they let you bring in your own catering and alcohol. That’s huge. Whether you’re going for a chic plated dinner or tacos and margaritas, you get to make it your day, your way.

35mm film wedding photography at the griffin house wedding in columbia river gorge

A Photographer’s Dream Venue

Let’s be real—some venues just don’t live up to the hype in photos. The Griffin House does. The way the light hits the cliffs at sunset? Unreal. The variety of backdrops? Endless. I’ve shot some of my all-time favorite images here, and I know couples who get married at The Griffin House will walk away with photos that actually feel like their day.

One Thing To Keep in Mind: THE WIND!

The Griffin House is known for its wind—it’s part of the deal with being perched on a cliff. If you lean into it, it can make for some dramatic, cinematic shots. But if you’re planning something delicate, like a champagne tower, just know you might need reinforcements. (Yes, I once saw one literally glued together to survive the wind.)

A Griffin House wedding isn’t just about the location—it’s about the entire experience. The views, the vibe, the seamless setup—it all just works. If you’re looking for a venue that feels effortless but delivers serious impact, this is it. No fluff, no over-the-top frills—just a damn good spot to get married.