Make a New Tradition

There are all kinds of interesting and unusual wedding traditions we bet you've never heard of, like in South Korea, it is traditional for the bride and groom to exchange wooden ducks or geese to symbolize their fidelity, as both of these birds mate for life.

Or in Germany, the bride and groom will work together using a two-person saw to cut through a log, representing the obstacles they'll face in life and will have to overcome with teamwork.

In Poland, guests are invited to buy dances with the bride during the reception while her maid of honor collects the charges and the donations go toward the couple's honeymoon. Whether you want to honor old traditions, or make some new ones of your own, Kiana Lodge is ready and thrilled to help you bring them to life for your picture-perfect Seattle area wedding.

There's a reason we've been voted "Best Wedding Destination" – you might even say a beautiful wedding at Kiana Lodge is a tradition all its own!

Break Away from the Ordinary

In recent years, more and more couples are opting out of the traditionally formal wedding ceremony for something a little more rustic and relaxed. Of course, this doesn't mean it can't be beautiful.

The storybook serenity of our historic lodge near Seattle, with a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, provides a ceremony space warmer and homier than a typical wedding venue, but also surrounds guests with Northwest history and rustic elegance.

The outdoor wedding is also in line with this trend, and Kiana Lodge has you covered there too, from the weathered driftwood that anchors the 1,000-foot private waterfront to the gorgeous gardens and lush green lawns, couples can have a ceremony that feels unique and personal instead of overtly formal or cookie-cutter typical. No matter where on the grounds you choose to have your ceremony, you know it will be unforgettable.

Looking Forward to Fall

Planning a fall wedding in Seattle? It's time to think flowers. When September rolls around, you'll be right on trend with a profusion of greenery. That's right. Wedding planners predict leaves will outnumber flowers in fall wedding bouquets and centerpieces.

But erase that image of jewel-toned fall foliage. This trend is all about flowing and fabulous greens, from fine grasses and ferns to heavenly scented baby eucalyptus. We'll also be seeing window box-style planters dressing up earthy farm tables - a trend that couldn't be more perfectly suited to our rustic and romantic setting.

When you're ready to start planning your fall wedding in Seattle, let the wedding planners at Kiana Lodge share their insight on blending contemporary trends with timeless traditions.

Do The Brew

Nothing says summer like an ice cold beer, and nothing says summer at Kiana Lodge like the 2nd Annual Kiana Lodge Brew Fest! On June 7, soak in the stunning early summer views from our waterfront lawn while enjoying lawn games, festival food and live music.

With nearly a dozen different Seattle area breweries on hand, including Bainbridge Brewery, Silver City Brewery and 7 Seas Brewing, there'll be a tasty variety of top-notch flavors to sample.

Your ticket comes with a commemorative glass and tokens for drinks and food, so start your summer off on a spirited note with an icy cold glass of local craft beer at the Kiana Lodge Brew Fest.

Make Mom's Heart Soar

If you're thinking that the usual flowers and chocolates aren't quite going to cut it for Mother's Day this year, we have something that will wow mom like never before: a seaplane flight to Kiana Lodge for a lavish Mother's Day brunch.

On May 10, we're teaming up with our friends at Kenmore Air to offer two scenic flights direct from their Seattle/Lake Union terminal. Take off at 10:30 am or noon for the 15-minute flight over Puget Sound to beautiful Kiana Lodge, where family gatherings are made even more memorable by a beautiful Mother's Day Buffet featuring Kiana Signature Salmon and other delicious Kiana culinary treats.

If mom is afraid of flight, you can still enjoy the bountiful Mother's Day Buffet at Kiana Lodge, served 11 am – 2 pm. She may even forgive you for your terrible twos.

Warming Trend

Spring is in the air at Kiana Lodge and we couldn't be more excited to see our quintessential Northwest wedding venue back in full bloom. Our towering fir trees, fragrant cedars and breathtaking waterfront view are among the many reasons that "Here Comes The Guide" chose Kiana Lodge among the "Top Ten Washington State Wedding Venues with Striking Scenery."

What else grabbed their attention? The crystal blue Agate Passage, light-filled Garden Atrium and "warm, elegant and rustic" romance of the historic Main Lodge with its floor-to-ceiling fireplace and open-beamed construction. (We have to agree, it is pretty spectacular!) But don't take our word for it, come see Kiana Lodge for yourself.

Easter Egg-travaganza!

The Easter bunny is coming to Kiana Lodge on April 5, just in time to be the special guest at Seattle's best Easter Brunch and Egg Hunt.

Kiana's Easter Brunch begins at 11 am and features a delicious assortment of signature dishes, including Kiana Salmon, Honey Cured Smoked Oven Roasted Ham and Fried Chicken, plus sides and sweets aplenty, such as Baked French Toast, Cornbread Strata, classic Mac 'n Cheese and Banana Pudding.

After brunch, kids gather for the Easter Egg Hunt while their parents sip Bloody Marys and Mimosas at the cash bar. Don't have reservations yet? Hop to it! Purchase your tickets on BrownPaperTickets or call us at (855) 656-8873

Columbia Winery Comes to Kiana

Speaking of farm-to-fork goodness, on March 25, 2015, we'll pair a four-course Northwest-grown dinner with wines from Washington State's first premium winery to create the ultimate Pacific Northwest culinary experience.

The menu is still top secret but if our sold-out Valentine's Day dinner is any indication, you can bet it will be a delicious melding of flavors including local salmon and shellfish, wild mushrooms and more.

The $45 per person price includes dinner, wines and gratuity. Dinner is at 6 pm, with full open bar cocktails available an hour before.

Fresh Florals

A quick review of 2015 wedding trends reveals that free-spirited, fresh-picked arrangements are getting the nod from floral-focused brides this year. We can't think of a look that's better suited to the rustic beauty of Kiana Lodge.

In keeping with the farm-to-fork culinary trend, seasonal flowers that are locally grown create a "just picked" aesthetic that resonates here in the Pacific Northwest.

Our expert wedding planners can point you in the direction of nearby Seattle wedding florists who specialize in creating arrangements with this year's trendy unconstructed look.

And don't forget, Kiana Lodge's abundance of blooming gardens will add lots of natural color to your bridal backdrop.

Wine Time

Make plans now to explore the Washington State wines of Kestrel Vintners, a top-notch Yakima Valley winery that showcases the unique terroir of the Pacific Northwest. Kiana Lodge welcomes Seattle wine lovers to meet the winemakers on Wednesday, January 28 for a four-course Wine Dinner paired with selected Kestrel vintages, including the Falcon series Old Vine Chardonnay and Wine Maker Select Cabernet.

Menu highlights include Salmon Aspic, Kobe Beef with Bacon & Blue Cheese and a sublime pairing of Apple, Sharp Cheddar and Chocolate.

The Less Paulish Trio will be on hand performing Swing-era tunes for dancing. Seating is limited; be sure to make reservations early for what is sure to be one of the best Seattle events in January.

Address: Kiana Lodge

This Year, Resolve to See Kiana

Here's a New Year's resolution with a bonus! Whether you're planning a wedding or a corporate event – or have simply never been to Kiana Lodge – this year, resolve to make a trip to this magnificent place just a short ferry trip from Seattle.

In addition to weddings and corporate events, Kiana Lodge hosts a handful of open-to-the-public events that offer guests an opportunity to leave their everyday cares behind and be transported – at least for an evening – to a setting of magical beauty.

Enjoy Valentine's Day dinner in the rustic Main Lodge with its stone fireplaces and exceptional cuisine; attend a Washington Wine dinner pairing the culinary specialties of the Pacific Northwest with one of the state's premier wineries or simply come for an exploratory tour.

There's no better, more beautiful backdrop for your Seattle meeting or event than this tranquil and historic setting.

Address: Kiana Lodge 14976 Sandy Hook Rd. NE Poulsbo WA 98370

Hours: Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Phone: (866) 738-4307 or (360) 598-4311

New Year's Eve in Seattle

Skip Seattle restaurants and nightclubs and head to Kiana Lodge (via a convenient complimentary shuttle from Clearwater Resort Casino) for a New Year's Eve to remember. This first-ever celebration begins at 6 pm with open bar, followed by Seattle's best buffet dinner and dancing. A DJ will spin tunes all night long, wrapping it up at midnight when fireworks light up the sky over Puget Sound.

Toast your fellow merrymakers with Champagne and late-night snacks, drop into the photo booth for Instagram-worthy moments and mingle by the cash bar. This is sure to be Seattle's most sought-after New Year's Eve soiree, so make plans now as space is limited to just 300 like-minded revelers. Address: Park at Clearwater Resort Casino for complimentary shuttle to Kiana Lodge

Meeting of the Minds

Sometimes the best breakthroughs happen when the scenery shifts. At Kiana Lodge, our Puget Sound setting is the frequent backdrop for breakthrough corporate retreats, company picnics, team building events and meetings that inspire and engage.

Whether you're planning a small Seattle meeting or a sizable get-together, our Main Lodge and Garden Atrium deliver all the high-tech essentials in a secluded setting anchored in hospitality and privacy.

Add exceptional catering by our in-house culinary team and you're got everything you need for a rewarding, creative event that leaves your group feeling reinvigorated and ready to reach new heights of productivity.

Why not kick off 2015 with a welcome shift of scenery?

Rustic Romance Works

The wildly popular rustic and refined wedding trend seems here to stay, say the editors of Bridal Guide. Homespun with healthy doses of glamour, rustic Seattle weddings are anchored in the romance of the Pacific Northwest.

From our beautiful Puget Sound setting and barn-like lodge to menus that sparkle with a local culinary spin, Kiana Lodge is an earthy, yet always elegant, backdrop for this most beautiful rustic Seattle weddings.

Among our most popular (and oh-so-romantic options) are cedar crackling fires in the Main Lodge and bonfires on the beach. Add the magic of location just far enough to make it feel a world away, and you'll understand why Kiana was awarded "Best of Weddings" by TheKnot.com.

Seattle's Newest New Year's Eve Soiree

Tired of the "same old same old" celebration? Chart a course for Kiana Lodge and ring the new year with its 2015 New Year's Eve Party.

The fun begins at 6 pm with open bar, followed by buffet dinner and dancing. A DJ spins tunes all night long, wrapping at midnight, when fireworks over the Puget Sound, a champagne toast and late-night snacks create a fine welcome to 2015.

Party favors, a photo booth and cash bar keep the mood fun and festive. Sure to be Seattle's most sought-after New Year's Eve soiree, we encourage you to book early – Kiana Lodge is taking just reservations for just 300 revelers. (At $50 per person, it may also be Seattle's best value.)

Address: Park at Clearwater Resort Casino for complimentary shuttle to Kiana Lodge

The Wonder of a Winter White Wedding

While Seattle summer weddings unfold against a backdrop of brilliant flowers, winter works its own brand of magic on Seattle brides and grooms. From fresh fallen snow to fur-trimmed accessories, horse-drawn sleigh rides to snowflake sugar cookies, there's something very hot about a cold weather wedding.

Let the event planners at Kiana Lodge share the latest winter wedding trends for creating warmth indoors while winter winds blow outdoors.

Consider hot beverage bars, peppermint swizzle sticks, brides maids in snow boots sipping signature cocktails like hot buttered rum.

For décor, nothing delights like miles of traditional evergreen garland embellished with white roses and pepper berries.

Layering is the key, say our expert Seattle wedding planners, who blend plush fabrics and jewel tones with natural, rustic elements to create an "oh, wow!" winter setting on beautiful Puget Sound.

The Finery of Fall Foliage

Just when we thought the landscape at Kiana Lodge had reached its peak of perfection, along comes fall in the Pacific Northwest. The breathtaking display of evergreens is courtesy of Mother Nature -- although our dedicated groundskeepers deserve at least some of the credit.

We can't imagine a more spectacular backdrop for a fall Seattle wedding than Kiana's six acres of fragrant cedars, tall firs and colorful, beautifully manicured gardens.

And if an outdoor "Indian Summer" wedding isn't in the cards, rest assured, Kiana Lodge's lovely Garden Atrium is a light-filled space with high arching skylights and floor-to-ceiling windows that give indoor events the airy look and feel of their outdoor counterparts.

For a unique Seattle wedding, Kiana Lodge pairs an elegant setting with access that couldn't be easier.

Love Lives Here

"It was a magical night"....."the wedding was flawless"....."Everything was perfect." Pardon us while we burst with pride, but we love it when we hear from happy Seattle brides and grooms (and their grateful parents) who've tied the knot on our Puget Sound shores.

What makes them write such glowing testimonials about a Seattle wedding? We think it's the ease of planning a local wedding that feels like a destination wedding in every imaginable way. From the ferry ride to the grounds (six acres ablaze in fall color) to 1,000 feet of private no bank waterfront, Kiana Lodge feels a world away.

Of course reminders of our proximity to Seattle are plenty. Just taste our award-winning Kiana Signature Salmon, Dungeness Crab Cakes and wines from Washington State winery Hogue Cellars.

Upcyled Style

Move over Mason jars...the wedding planners have spoken. These days, savvy Seattle weddings boast a more imaginative mix of décor. Think repurposed wine crates and vintage milk bottles overflowing with armloads of fresh flowers.

This homespun-meets-high-end hybrid resonates with today's eco-friendly brides and nowhere is this earthy elegance captured more perfectly than Kiana Lodge, where beautifully manicured gardens and shimmering Puget Sound form an exquisite backdrop for the refined, yet rustic beauty of the Northwest wedding.

Whether you turn over the décor to the experts or dream of incorporating your own DIY touches, Kiana Lodge's team of experienced wedding coordinators will help you create the wedding of your dreams.

And for the record, we're still fans of the Mason jar!

Fall for a Seattle Wedding

A profusion of flowers, paved pathways that meander through beautiful gardens, a rustic lodge with soaring cedar beams and skylights...this is the timeless beauty of Kiana Lodge. And it just so happens, a wonderful woodland setting like ours is this year's top wedding trend, according to the editors of The Knot.

At Kiana Lodge, we're here to make the rustic woodland wedding dreams of Seattle brides come true.

From mini terrariums on tabletops to flower crowns for our youngest attendants, the earthy, elegant beauty of Kiana Lodge provides endless inspiration.

After you've fallen in love, fall for a Seattle wedding that blends rustic romance with a touch of wedding-worthy glamour.