Discovering Vashon Island: A Weekend Wedding Journey

We hadn’t even heard of Vashon Island until an invitation arrived from an old college friend getting married there. They’d moved to the Seattle/Tacoma area for work after college, met a local, and decided to settle down. When it came time to tie the knot, they wanted a venue that showcased the area’s natural beauty while remaining accessible to their local family and friends.

The Journey Begins

Flying into SeaTac Airport, we paired up with two other college friends, rented a car, and headed toward Vashon. We’d heard the island was rural enough to require a car for exploring, so splitting costs for a rental and cabin made perfect sense. Not far from the airport, we found ourselves driving onto a Washington State Ferry. The breathtaking views of Puget Sound confirmed that our friends had chosen an enchanting spot to tie the knot.

Once on the island, we headed straight to our Airbnb. It was as cozy and charming as the photos promised, providing the perfect space to comfortably catch up with old friends before heading out to dinner. 

A Taste of Island Life

Dinner was at The Ruby Brink, a local gem with a fabulous outdoor patio and an impressive menu. We were blown away by the restaurant scene here in general—it seemed far more refined than one might expect on a small, rural island. Later, we uncovered a hidden bar tucked behind a pizza place, where we mingled with locals and soaked up amusing tales of island life.

Wedding Day Honky Tonk

The next morning, coffee and pastries from the Burton Coffee Stand fueled us as we got ready for the big event. Deer frolicking outside added to the serene atmosphere—it felt like we’d stumbled into a surreal oasis just minutes from the bustling city.

The wedding venue was simple but stunning: a lush field with a barn nearby for the reception. With sweeping views of Puget Sound and Mount Rainier, combined with perfect summer weather and a gentle ocean breeze, the setting couldn’t have been better. The ceremony was heartwarming, and the reception was one for the books. A local honky-tonk band played lively tunes, while the food was locally sourced—platters of paella, island-crafted beer, and wine. Our hosts had thought of everything and we danced until well after the stars came out.

Boats and BBQ

The next morning, Sporty’s Bar was our go-to for hearty pancakes and eggs that took the edge off our hangovers. The day unfolded with more festivities at another friends beachside cabin, where friends gathered for boating and BBQ under the sun. Even the newlyweds made an appearance, showing off their dance moves from the night before.

Making an Exit

The next morning as the weekend came to an end, we said our goodbyes, boarded the ferry, and headed back to the airport. Flying over Mount Rainier on the way home, we reflected on the hilarious, heartfelt moments shared with old friends. Puget Sound had captivated us, feeling like a missing puzzle piece we hadn’t realized was missing—and we knew we’d be back someday.