Michael and Travis’ wedding day at John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids, Michigan was one of those days that felt deeply grounded and wildly joyful all at once. Neutral boho textures, soft earthy tones, and the quiet magic of the zoo as their backdrop made the entire day feel intentional, relaxed, and full of heart. The kind of celebration that’s less about tradition and more about truth. From the moment they were surrounded by their people, it was clear: this wasn’t just a wedding. It was a celebration of perseverance, partnership, and choosing each other again and again.

A Love Story Built on Distance (and Determination)

Michael and Travis technically met at Travis’s birthday dinner while both were in college, Michael attending NMU in Marquette and Travis at GVSU. They were introduced through a friend while visiting Grand Valley, and from there, everything unfolded slowly and intentionally.

What followed was a long-distance relationship that required serious commitment: phone calls, planning, and countless seven-hour drives whenever they could make it work. Even after college, distance still played a role, Travis living in Gaylord and Michael in the Detroit area, but they kept choosing each other. Within a year, they made the leap and both moved to Grand Rapids, where they’ve now built a life together for over 11 years. They’ve bought a home, adopted a cat named Steven and a dog named Marshall, and created a partnership rooted in friendship, resilience, and deep mutual respect.

Their story is one of moving through physical distance, societal barriers, and even a postponed wedding due to Covid, but never losing sight of what mattered most: their relationship and love.

A Day Worth the Wait

After years of patience and postponement, Michael and Travis finally got to have their day, and it was absolutely worth it. Set among the natural beauty of John Ball Zoo, their LGBT boho neutral wedding felt warm, organic, and effortless. The soft color palette paired beautifully with the greenery and textures of the space, creating a calm, inviting atmosphere that let the focus stay exactly where it belonged: on connection. There was laughter, emotion, and the kind of ease that only comes when two people are completely sure of each other. When I arrived it was lovely to see all of their loved ones helping set up and being so supportive of the whole vision. Once the ceremony started there was not a dry eye in the place, each person in attendance moved by the couple’s words of commitment to one another. After sealing it with a kiss and “I do” we headed out with their wedding party to capture some beautiful photos around the zoo. Not long after the party got started!

What They Were Most Excited For

More than anything, Michael and Travis were excited to celebrate their relationship and simply have fun with their friends and family. And honestly? That joy was palpable all day long. From quiet, meaningful moments between the two of them to big, exuberant celebrations with their people, this day felt like a true reflection of who they are together.

Michael and Travis, your wedding was a beautiful reminder that love doesn’t have to be loud to be powerful. Thank you for trusting me to document a day that represents so many years of choosing each other.

To see more weddings like this one check out these other blogs:

Michael and Cody | Downtown Detroit Wedding | Gay Wedding at Chroma Detroit, MI

Rachel and Lauren | Ann Arbor, Michigan | Vibrant Fall Queer Wedding at Matthaei Botanical Gardens & The Big House

Tory and Sage | Camp Pinewood | Queer Wedding Photographer