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Black Pearl: An Open-Concept Venue with Stunning Panoramic Views
Nestled in the Washougal neighborhood is the event and wedding venue, The Black Pearl. This modern wedding venue is situated on the banks of the Columbia River, providing its guests with magnificent views of Mount Hood and the Columbia Gorge.
The Black Pearl on the Columbia offers over 12,000 sq ft between its upper and lower level. It can accommodate approximately 1,050 guests, making it a fantastic option for couples planning a larger wedding.
This Washington wedding venue offers couples an open-concept industrial space and luxury finishings to make their own for their special day.
Continue reading to learn more about this breathtaking venue and to take inspiration from a recent wedding I photographed here!
The Story Behind The Black Pearl on the Columbia
I always love photographing weddings at venues with a story behind them – and The Black Pearl is no exception. This venue is a space for the community to make their own and gather together in a spectacular location.
In 2009, family-man William “Bill” Sherertz bought the was-Parker House in Washougal, Washington, to transform it into a restaurant. His goal was to create a welcoming space for the community to gather and enjoy great food.
Construction of his restaurant began in 2010 but was postponed when Bill passed away in January 2011. After his passing, Bill’s wife, Kim, and their children decided to, instead, turn this space into a community event and gathering center to honor his memory.
Together, the family worked tirelessly for many years until Bill’s vision finally came to life in 2018 – and in that year, The Black Pearl on the Columbia opened to the public.
The Black Pearl’s conception was rooted in family, community, and merriment, all of which continue to inspire guests today!
The Indoor Spaces
The Black Pearl is a perfect space for guests to come together in a breathtaking location to celebrate the newlyweds.
Floor-to-ceiling windows and polished concrete flooring adorn the upper and lower levels of The Black Pearl. Each floor has a see-through fireplace to serve as a gorgeous focal point using florals, a neon sign, and much more.
Couples can put their unique touch on each space to create unforgettable experiences. For instance, this couple put together a slideshow of their best memories, creating a special moment for their loved ones.
This modern venue is truly a blank canvas for couples to customize and transform into their dream wedding theme!
Climb the sweeping staircases to enjoy the panoramic views of the Columbia River and Mount Hood. Guests can also access the large mezzanine off the second floor. From here, guests can enjoy a striking bird’s-eye-view of Mount Hood, the Port of Camas, and the surrounding lush waterways.
While this venue doesn’t have designated dressing quarters or bridal party suites, don’t let this dissuade you! The wedding party can use the mezzanine to create different spaces using pipe and drape or dividers for extra privacy.
Amenities at the Black Pearl
The Black Pearl includes many luxury details and amenities for creating an unforgettable wedding day.
The venue rental includes several furniture items to comfortably host big and small weddings. For example, it includes various tables (bistro, round, rectangular, and bar height), Mahogany folding chairs, and folding privacy screens.
Couples can use Allseated, an event floorplan design software, to access The Black Pearl’s interactive floor plans and plan their set-up. This is a great way to do a mock set-up of the different event spaces before the big day.
The Black Pearl’s spaces were designed with its guests in mind, with four indoor restrooms on both levels. It’s also ADA accessible – a ramp to access the building, eight ADA-accessible bathrooms, and an elevator to access the upper levels.
A Black Pearl staff member will be on-site during the wedding to ensure a safe and enjoyable guest experience. Additionally, the building has 24/7 security camera coverage for extra security.
This modern wedding venue has a warming kitchen on each floor to accommodate the chosen catering company. Each kitchen has a commercial refrigerator and freezer, two warming towers, stainless steel countertops, and a large and small sink.
Dedicated Outdoor Spaces with Picturesque Views
The outdoor spaces at The Black Pearl are equally as enjoyable as the indoor ones. There are several gorgeous areas surrounding the Black Pearl. Its exterior is covered with lush greenery, perfect for first looks with family and bridal parties!
Guests can also enjoy both upper and lower-level patios with panoramic views of the Columbia Gorge.
The terraces are excellent spots to watch the sunset with guests, as this couple did during their wedding reception! Or take a stroll down the docks at sunset for another beautiful photo opportunity.
Along the venue’s riverside is a wraparound patio that connects to the east-side plaza. Couples can use this extensive patio for additional seating or even a fully-outdoor wedding.
This outdoor space provides spectacular river and mountain views. It also offers couples a unique opportunity to bring a food truck for their wedding caterer!
Plan Your Dream Wedding at The Black Pearl
Look no further if you’re a fan of the Columbia River and want a beautiful indoor space for your wedding day! I highly recommend The Black Pearl to get the best of both worlds.
I’d be honored to photograph such an impactful, special moment as your wedding day. Reach out to me to learn how I can capture your wedding memories timelessly and beautifully.
I had the pleasure of working with the following various talented local wedding vendors:
Hair & Makeup: ALipsticktoMatch
Florist: Élan Events & Design
Planner: MV Events Coordinator
Cake: Simply Beautiful Cakes
Dress: Delux Bridal
Are you in search of inspiration for your own wedding? Enjoy the rest of my captures from this spectacular wedding held at The Black Pearl in September 2022.
