Milwaukie-Portland Elks Lodge #142

Wedding Reception

Ceremony

Reception

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Our Wedding

We’re creating an audio keepsake of our wedding and would be honored to include your voice. If you’ll be at the reception, look for our retro phone guestbook—you can pick it up and leave us a message right there. If you’d like more time to think about what you want to say, you can also call in using the number below. You’ll be able to call and leave a message through the end of July 2026, so there’s plenty of time to share your stories, memories, advice, or even your favorite moments from the reception itself. For ideas and suggestions on what to say, please visit:<a href="https://lifeonrecord.com/caller-tips/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">lifeonrecord.com</a> To leave a message, call 1-800-437-3009 and enter invitation number 103076.

LifeOnRecord

Sean and Chelsea’s story began in Seaside during Summer Convention for the Oregon State Elks Association—though neither of them quite knew it yet. Their very first interaction happened at the President’s Reception, when Chelsea asked for a rum and Coke. Sean had been instructed to help clear out the alcohol… and let’s just say the drink he made was far stronger than expected. A few moments later, Chelsea returned for more Coke to balance it out, giving them a brief second conversation before the evening carried on. Sean is still convinced that Chelsea was trying to avoid him after the awfully strong drink he made... They didn’t cross paths again until much later that evening in another lodge’s hospitality room. Chelsea was chatting with one of Sean's long time friends, Jasen about his job while Sean quietly joined to listen—meanwhile, Amanda (Jasen's wife) playfully teased that Jasen was standing in the way of Sean’s chance to talk to Chelsea. From that moment on, Sean and Chelsea were inseparable for the rest of the night, talking and laughing with friends until nearly 3 a.m., and then continuing to text until 4. The very next day turned into an all-day first date—complete with Chelsea meeting Sean’s parents while impressively (and bravely) battling a serious hangover.From that day forward, they have spent nearly every single day together, building a relationship filled with laughter, friendship, and unwavering love. What started with an unexpectedly strong drink became something even stronger—a partnership they can’t wait to celebrate with the people they love most.

Our Story

Photos

Jimmy Simmerman has been Sean’s steady partner in crime since childhood—his older brother, golfing buddy, and loyal sounding board when Sean needs advice or just a friend to talk to. Growing up together and going on family trips to Maui, late-night bon fires at the beach or Ocotillo Wells riding dirt bikes, James has always been the first to celebrate Sean’s big moments and the one to help steady him through the rest. As Best Man, he’s honored to stand beside Sean on June 6th, 2026, in Maui, HI, and to share the laughter (and a few embarrassing stories) that come with a lifetime of memories. Sean loves to boast about how lucky he is to have an older brother like "Jimmy", thank you for being apart of our special day.

James Simmerman

Jason Cowls met Sean as young teenagers while volunteering as docents at the Lyon Air Museum at the John Wayne Airport in Orange County, CA. Their friendship took off through shared adventures—countless country concerts, late nights exploring local bars, and chasing every aviation event and air museum they could find. Despite time and distance, Jason has been a steady, adventurous constant through every chapter of Sean’s life. We’re so happy to have him standing with us on our special day.

Jason Cowls

Kat is Chelsea’s longest best friend and (second) cousin, the person who’s been by her side through every season of life. She’s the one who helps Chelsea see the creative and colorful side of the world—whether she was helping Chelsea making earrings as a kid or patiently trying to teach Chelsea the ukulele. With a small circle of family to lean on, Kat has always been the steady, loyal one who shows up through thick and thin.

Kat Atchison

Wedding Party

Q + A

Located off Highway 205, this hotel features an on-site bar and restaurant and an outdoor swimming pool and hot tub. All guest rooms offer free Wi-Fi. Portland International Airport is 18 miles away. A cable TV, a microwave, a refrigerator and a work desk are offered in the rooms at the Best Western Plus Rivershore Hotel. The temperature-controlled rooms also offer tea and coffee-making facilities and select rooms feature river views. At the Rivershore Best Western Plus guests can dine on American cuisine for lunch and dinner at the Rivershore Bar &amp; Grill and enjoy the late-night cocktail lounge which offers video poker machines and karaoke. A business center and a fitness center are featured on-site at the hotel. Laundry facilities are available as well as a 24-hour reception. Clackamette Park is 5 minutes’ walk from the hotel. Oregon City Shopping Center is 2 minutes’ drive away.

Best Western Plus Rivershore Hotel

Located in Portland and with Oregon Museum of Science and Industry reachable within 2.3 miles, Bluebird Guesthouse has concierge services, non-smoking rooms, a garden, free WiFi throughout the property and a shared lounge. Featuring a shared kitchen, this property also provides guests with a terrace. The inn has family rooms. At the inn, rooms have a desk. Featuring a private bathroom with a shower and free toiletries, certain accommodations at Bluebird Guesthouse also feature a city view. The rooms have a closet. The accommodation offers an à la carte or continental breakfast. Governor Tom McCall Waterfront Park is 3.1 miles from Bluebird Guesthouse, while Oregon Convention Center is 3.2 miles from the property. Portland International Airport is 6.2 miles away.

Bluebird Guesthouse

Located along the South waterfront in Portland, this hotel is 10 miles from Portland Airport (PDX). It offers several amenities such as a gym and free WiFi. The Residence Inn Portland Downtown/RiverPlace offers nearby access to the Portland Streetcar and bus lines. The rooms at the Residence Inn Portland Downtown/RiverPlace have a fully-equipped kitchen with a refrigerator, a microwave and a dishwasher. They also include a seating area and flat-screen TV. The Residence Inn Portland serves a complimentary hot buffet breakfast daily. Guests can also enjoy free tea and coffee in the lobby, or visit the 24-hour Market which sells sandwiches, snacks and ice cream. Local restaurant dinner delivery is also available. The Residence Inn Portland by Marriott is conveniently located near downtown Portland entertainment district and the Oregon Convention Center. Guests can enjoy the nearby walking and cycling trail.

Residence Inn by Marriott Portland Downtown/RiverPlace

Hyatt House Portland / Downtown is set in the Riverplace district in Marquam Hill, 1.1 mi from Portland and 8.7 mi from Vancouver. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant and complimentary Wi-Fi. Studio rooms and one-bedroom suites offer fully equipped kitchens, separate living and sleeping spaces. All rooms include a 42-inch flat panel TV, work space, coffee/tea maker and private bathroom. Meeting room space with floor-to-ceiling windows is available for small or large groups. A complimentary breakfast is offered at the hotel inducing an omelet bar and fresh fruits. The H BAR, features a selection of premium wines, cocktails and local Portland beers. Oregon Convention Center and Moda Center is 2.5 mi from Hyatt House Portland / Downtown, while the Portland Art Museum is 1.2 mi away. The nearest airport is Portland International Airport, 6.8 mi from the property.

Hyatt House Portland/Downtown

Adjacent to the Willamette River and Tom McCall Waterfront Park, this eco-friendly Portland hotel features a complimentary morning coffee, tea, and an evening wine reception. Access to a local fitness facility is offered. Large windows decorate the bright, modern rooms of the RiverPlace Hotel. Plush bathrobes, a flat-screen TV and a coffee maker are included in each guestroom. There is an on-site restaurant, King Tide Fish &amp; Shell, serving fresh, local food with beautiful views of the river. This relaxing, waterfront restaurant also features a heated porch with rocking chairs. Bicycles are available for rent at the property for the length of stay. There is a bicycle path near the property that runs along the river front. The Portland Saturday Market is 15 minutes' walk from Kimpton Riverplace Hotel. Pioneer Courthouse Square is 10 minutes' drive from the property, while OMSI is 0.9 mi away. Portland State University is 0.5 mi from the hotel. Portland Union Station is 1.5 miles away. RiverPlace Hotel is 13 miles from Portland International Airport (PDX).

Kimpton Riverplace Hotel by IHG

This Portland hotel is on the waterfront and is within 5 minutes' walk of Riverplace Marina, which features shopping and dining. The hotel offers rooms with flat-screen TVs and a conference center. Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront rooms are equipped with a 47-inch flat-screen TV, seating area, work desk, and the bathrooms include granite countertops, rain shower heads, lighted mirrors and sliding barn doors. The hotel offers room service. Dining options at the Portland Marriott include, featuring Proof•Reader Whiskey   Craft   Kitchen, where guests can savor the nuanced flavors of more than 150 types of local and global whiskeys, also offering craft cocktails and authentic Pacific Northwest cuisine. The highlight menu is the High Proof Burger, infused with whiskey. Guests at the Downtown Portland Marriott can work out and stay fit thanks to the hotel's on-site fitness center. The Marriott Downtown is 2 miles from the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry and the Oregon Convention Center.

Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront

This boutique hotel is located in downtown Portland, 5 minutes’ walk from the Portland Art Museum. A fire pit and furnished patio is available for guests. Rooms feature a flat-screen HD cable TV. A work desk, small fridge, and coffee-making facilities are included in each modern guest room at The Hotel Zags Portland. Over 500 pieces of local art are on display in The Hotel Zags Portland. A 24-hour concierge service, assisting guests with a variety of local attractions, is available. Guests can take advantage of free passes to a nearby 24-hour fitness center and adult lap pool. The gym is one block from the hotel. Zags Restaurant &amp; Patio is featured onsite, offering dishes inspired from the French and Italian Rivera cuisine. Waterfront Park and Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery are both within 10 minutes’ walk from the hotel. The property has complimentary continental breakfast included

The Hotel Zags Portland

Less than 5 minutes' walk from The Max Lightrail, Hilton Portland Downtown features an on site restaurant and bar. Rooms offer cable TV with per-per-view options. Free WiFi is offered in the lobby. At the Hilton Portland Downtown, all rooms include down comforters and allergen-free feather and down pillows, coffee/tea making facilities, Signature bath products, a desk, hairdryer, and ironing facilities. HopCity Tavern offers American gastro pub cuisine, seven local microbreweries on tap, and twelve Northwestern wines by the glass. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late night. There is a 24-hour fitness center on-site. Valet parking is also available at the Hilton Portland Downtown. The Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall and Pioneer Courthouse Square are within a block of the hotel. The Moda Center and Providence Park are a 5 to 10-minute drive from the hotel.

Hilton Portland Downtown

Attractively set in Portland, WorldMark Portland Waterfront Park has air-conditioned rooms, a fitness center and a terrace. This 3-star resort offers a 24-hour front desk and an ATM. The property provides a business center, a concierge service and organizing tours for guests. At the resort, rooms include a closet and a flat-screen TV. The private bathroom is equipped with a shower, free toiletries and a hairdryer. The rooms will provide guests with a fridge. WorldMark Portland Waterfront Park has a grill. Guests at the accommodation will be able to enjoy activities in and around Portland, like hiking and cycling. Popular points of interest near WorldMark Portland Waterfront Park include Lan Su Chinese Garden, Governor Tom McCall Waterfront Park and Portland Union Station. Portland International Airport is 8.7 miles from the property.

WorldMark Portland - Waterfront Park

This Portland hotel is a 2-minute drive from the Oregon Convention Center. The design hotel offers an on-site restaurant, live music club and unique guest rooms with free WiFi. Jupiter Hotel features a 32-inch flat-screen TV in every guest room. The rooms are also equipped with bath amenities, chalkboard doors and painted murals on the walls. Hey Love Restaurant and Bar at the Jupiter NEXT is open for lunch and dinner daily and brunch on weekends. Downtown Portland is a 5-minute drive from the Jupiter. The Moda Center and Memorial Coliseum are one mile away.

Jupiter Hotel

Located only 0.8 mi from downtown Portland, Jupiter NEXT offers modern accommodations near several attractions. The International Rose Test Garden is 3.4 mi away, while Powell's City of Books is 1.2 mi away. An lobby restaurant and bar is located on-site at the hotel. Offering city views of Portland, each guest room at Jupiter NEXT features chalkboard doors and a 60-inch flat-screen TV with cable channels. All units in the hotel are equipped with a work desk, air-conditioning, and a private bathroom with free toiletries. Guests can enjoy a private garden retreat with city views at the property, along with fresh air patios. In addition to having over 6000 square feet of meeting and event space, additional property amenities include free WiFi throughout the hotel, keyless entry, self check-in kiosks, and a digital concierge service. Oregon Convention Center is 0.7 mi away, while Moda Center is 1 mi away. Voodoo Doughnuts is an 18-minute walk from Jupiter NEXT, while Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is 1.1 mi away. Multnomah Falls is 40 mi away, and Portland International Airport is 5.6 mi from the property.

Jupiter NEXT

Located in Portland and within 1.4 miles of Oregon Convention Center, Tiny Digs - Hotel of Tiny Houses features a garden, non-smoking rooms, and free WiFi. The property is around 2 miles from Lan Su Chinese Garden, 2.3 miles from Oregon Museum of Science and Industry and 2.3 miles from Moda Center. Governor Tom McCall Waterfront Park is 2.8 miles away and Portland State University is 3 miles from the hotel. Guest rooms has air conditioning, a fridge, a stovetop, a coffee machine, a shower, free toiletries and a closet. Each room includes a private bathroom and a hairdryer, and certain rooms at the hotel have a patio. At Tiny Digs - Hotel of Tiny Houses all rooms have a seating area. Portland Union Station is 2.3 miles from the accommodation, while Portland Art Museum is 2.7 miles away. Portland International Airport is 4.3 miles from the property.

Tiny Digs - Hotel of Tiny Houses

Located in downtown Portland's West End, on the edge of the Pearl District, are the Crystal Hotel and Ballroom blocks – an area that could be renamed “rock ‘n' roll row.”The Crystal Hotel has 51 comfortable guestrooms, each inspired by a song or performance from the Crystal Ballroom's past 100 years. Colorfully painted panels and headboards anchor the rooms, while deeply-hued walls, black velvet drapery and animal print upholstery lend a rock ‘n' roll vibe. Our queen rooms have convenient access to individual bathrooms down the hall. Large windows afford views of the city from all angles. All overnight guests receive complimentary use of the subterranean, saltwater soaking pool. Al's Den is an intimate music venue named for Al Winter, Portland's gambling overlord who, in the 1940s, managed his vast empire that spanned the Pacific Northwest and into Las Vegas from this very location.

McMenamins Crystal Hotel

Travel

People call it the “crown jewel” of the Oregon State Parks system, and once you visit, you know why. Silver Falls State Park is the kind of standout scenic treasure that puts Oregon firmly onto the national—and international—stage. Its beauty, boundless recreational opportunities and historic presence keep it there. Where else can you walk behind a waterfall? Check out the famous South Falls and see what a 177-foot curtain of water looks like from behind. It’s part of the Trail of Ten Falls, a spectacular, nationally recognized hiking trail that weaves through a dense forested landscape. The trail passes a series of breathtaking waterfalls along a rocky canyon, and descends to a winding creek at the forest floor. This 7.2 mile loop is considered to be a moderate hike, with an overall elevation change of 800 feet.&nbsp;Several connecting trails with separate access points make shorter routes. For everyone’s safety— absolutely no pets allowed on the Canyon Trail.&nbsp;Pets on leash are allowed on all other trails.&nbsp;New Trail:&nbsp;The North Rim Trail opened in July 2023. The one-mile trail is highly accessible with a width of 6 or more feet of compacted surface. The trail includes a viewpoint of the North Falls. Visitors can access the trail from the new North Canyon Trailhead and day-use area and the North Falls Trailhead and parking area. Boots, bikes, paws, hoovesThe park offers more than 35 miles of backcountry trails for mountain biking, hiking or horseback riding (see guided ride info below). Bears and cougars live in the more remote park areas. Daytime activitiesThe South Falls day-use area has spacious lawns, barbecue stands, picnic shelters, tables, a playground, horseshoe pits, an off-leash area for dogs, and a charming creek.&nbsp;Ever since the opening day in 1933, visitors have been using these grounds for potlucks, family reunions and weddings. New North Canyon day-use area&nbsp;has picnic tables, ADA-accessible restroom and 59 new parking spots, including three that are ADA accessible. The new area also provides access to the Nature Play Area for kids and the new accessible North Rim Trail with viewpoint of North Falls.

Silver Falls State Park

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is ranked as one of the top science centers in the United States and has an international reputation for its innovative exhibits and educational programs.&nbsp; Located along Portland’s south waterfront, OMSI sits on a 17-acres, formerly occupied by a historic sawdust-fired power generation plant. OMSI incorporates the original smokestack and turbine buildings to blend together technology of the past, present, and future. The museum contains five exhibit halls, hundreds of interactive exhibits and eight laboratories, 300-seat, four-story Empirical Theater, 200-seat Harry C. Kendall Planetarium/Laser Light Venue with state-of-the-art video projectors.&nbsp; OMSI also hosts the USS Blueback for public tours, providing a unique look at the people, history, and technology associated with the last non-nuclear-powered submarine built by the U.S. Navy. Finally, OMSI also runs one of the largest science outreach education programs in the United States with outreach programs serving seven Western states, educational field trips and hands-on lab sessions in their eight interactive laboratories and camps and classes throughout Oregon and the Pacific Northwest for youth as well as families and adults.

OMSI

The Oregon Zoo connects communities to the wonder of wildlife to create a better future for all. Perched on a hill of 64 forested acres just minutes from Portland city center, they are a hub for science, conservation, education and animal well-being delivering the highest quality of care to 165 species and subspecies. The Oregon Zoo is one of the most visited cultural landmarks in the Pacific Northwest, with around 1.5 million visits each year—inspiring guests and community members of all ages, abilities and backgrounds by creating safe, welcoming spaces. Through their tickets and memberships, as well as support from the Oregon Zoo Foundation, they are able to make a difference for wildlife at home and around the world. The community’s support helps the zoo protect more than 20 endangered and threatened species — from California condors to Oregon silverspot butterflies.

Oregon Zoo

Things to Do

Registry

What Is Cocktail Wedding Attire?

Cocktail Dresses to Add to Your Cart ASAP

What Guys Need to Know About Dress Codes

We’re keeping things semi-formal with a relaxed, beachy-vintage vibe. Think cocktail attire with a summer twist: lightweight dresses, linen or unstructured suits, and polished separates in warm, muted colors or playful pastels. Comfortable sandals or dressy flats are fine for those who prefer them, but please avoid beach flip-flops. Portland evenings can be cool—bring a light shawl, blazer, or wrap.

Sean & Chelsea

Sean & Chelsea

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