A Photographer's Guide to Gold Mountain Golf Club Weddings in Bremerton, WA
If you’re planning a wedding in Kitsap County and love the idea of lush Pacific Northwest scenery paired with an elegant, well-run venue, Gold Mountain Golf Club in Bremerton, Washington is one of those places that truly delivers.
As a local Kitsap County wedding photographer who has photographed multiple weddings at Gold Mountain—and who lives nearby—this venue holds a special place in my heart. Not only is it consistently beautiful in every season, but it’s also one of those rare venues where the scenery, layout, and staff all work with your wedding day rather than against it.
This guide is meant to give you an honest, behind-the-scenes look at what it’s really like to get married at Gold Mountain Golf Club, along with insider tips to help you make the most of your day.
Why Couples Love Gold Mountain Golf Club
Gold Mountain Golf Club is best known for its “Wedding in the Woods” ceremony site, which feels tucked away and intimate while still being part of a polished, professional venue. The towering trees, filtered light, and natural surroundings create a peaceful atmosphere that feels distinctly Pacific Northwest—without requiring a long hike or remote logistics.
From a photography perspective, the venue offers a rare combination of:
Forested ceremony space
Open golf course views
Clean, light-filled reception areas
Easy transitions between locations
That variety means your gallery feels rich and dynamic, even without leaving the property.
The Ceremony: “Wedding in the Woods”
The outdoor ceremony site is one of Gold Mountain’s strongest features. Nestled among trees, it offers a rustic feel that doesn’t require much additional décor. The setting naturally draws focus to the couple, which is something I always appreciate when photographing ceremonies. Plus, the venue has some beautiful decor pieces available for use like their rustic, log aisle markers and their decorative arch.
Insider Tips for the Ceremony:
Time it right: Late afternoon ceremonies tend to offer the most flattering light filtering through the trees, especially in spring and summer.
Minimal décor works best: The space already has so much natural character—simple florals or greenery complement it beautifully.
Footwear matters: The ground can be uneven in places, so consider block heels or ceremony shoes you’re comfortable standing in.
I’ve seen the venue during a variety of weather conditions such as the perfectly picturesque Golden Hour and the traditional rain and grey skies we’re known for in the PNW. Yet, I haven’t seen this space look anything other than gorgeous. The trees provide some cover from rain, wind, and bright sun, but if you get lucky enough to get the sun shining through the trees… your photos will be pure magic (if you value a dramatic shot, make sure your photographer gets the wide portrait shot at the back with the full length of the trees in frame).
The Reception: Olympic Room & Terrace
The Olympic Room and Terrace offer flexibility depending on your guest count and wedding style. The space is filled with natural light and transitions easily from dinner to dancing, which helps keep the energy flowing throughout the evening.
Up to 70 guests for a seated terrace ceremony
Up to 150 guests for a seated dinner with a dance floor
Because everything is so close together, guests never feel shuffled around—which makes the day feel relaxed and intentional.
Photographer Insight:
While I personally love watching The Olympic Room come to life under the glow of the string lights at night, it’s also gorgeous during golden hour, when soft light pours through the windows and spills out onto the back terrace. From a photographer’s perspective, the terrace is often underused—despite its gorgeous views, dramatic trees, and beautifully tiered steps. I always recommend asking your photographer to capture a wide shot of the reception from the walkway leading into the Olympic Room. It’s a scene-setting image that adds context and depth to your gallery and helps tell the full story of the day.
The terrace can also be a wonderful option for a first look or family portraits, depending on the weather and lighting conditions.
If your timeline allows, sneaking away for just 5–10 minutes at sunset can result in some of the most romantic images of the day. The area behind the main building overlooking the pond is my favorite spot for golden hour portraits at Gold Mountain—and it’s surprisingly versatile, working beautifully for couple portraits and family/wedding party photos.
Getting Ready at Gold Mountain
Another convenient feature of Gold Mountain Golf Club is the large bridal/getting ready suite. It’s spacious, private, and functional—everything you want on a wedding morning.
Couples often use this space for:
Hair and makeup
Final outfit details
Storing personal items and décor
Taking a quiet moment to breathe before the ceremony
From a photography standpoint, having a designated getting-ready area on-site keeps the day running smoothly and allows your story to unfold in one cohesive location. It’s also a great spot for the newly weds to take a private moment after the ceremony, enjoy their specialty cocktail, and/or sign their marriage license.
Wedding Day Flow: What Works Best Here
Because Gold Mountain is a single-location venue, it’s especially well-suited for couples who want a smooth, low-stress timeline.
A typical flow that works beautifully here:
Getting ready on-site
First look on the terrace or behind the main building (optional)
Ceremony in the woods
- Family portraits on the course (popular) or behind the main building overlooking the pond (my personal preference)
Cocktail hour on the terrace
Sunset portraits overlooking the pond
Reception and dancing in the Olympic Room
This layout minimizes travel time, keeps guests comfortable, and allows you to stay present throughout the day.
The Staff & Planning Experience
Gold Mountain offers both comprehensive wedding packages and à la carte options, which is ideal for couples who want flexibility without starting from scratch.
Having an on-site Sales Manager makes a noticeable difference. Communication is clear, expectations are well-managed, and couples often mention how supported they feel throughout the planning process. I’ve worked with plenty of wedding professionals, but what’s special about the team at Gold Mountain is that they seem to genuinely care about your experience.
Their staff is always checking in, keeping the venue on track, and bringing the couple food/drinks. They’re always there, but in a way that doesn’t feel intrusive or overbearing.
Why Gold Mountain Is a Great Choice for Kitsap County Weddings
For couples searching for wedding venues in Kitsap County, Gold Mountain Golf Club offers:
Easy access for local and out-of-town guests
Scenic variety without leaving the venue
Professional coordination and reliable staff
A setting that feels elevated yet approachable
It’s especially well-suited for couples who want an outdoor feel with the comfort of a structured venue.
Final Thoughts From a Local Wedding Photographer
As someone who photographs weddings throughout Kitsap County, Gold Mountain consistently stands out as a venue where days flow smoothly, couples feel taken care of, and the setting enhances—not complicates—the experience.
It’s not flashy or trendy in a way that will date your photos. Instead, it offers timeless Pacific Northwest beauty, thoughtful design, and a calm energy that translates beautifully into wedding images.
If you’re considering getting married at Gold Mountain Golf Club, it’s absolutely worth a tour—and if you’re already booked there, I’d love to help you envision how your day could look.
