Every 4th of July that Maxx and I have been together we’ve gone up to his parents cabin in Port Austin, Michigan. For all of you non michiganders look at your right hand palm and go to the top of your thumb, that’s Port Austin. It’s a quite town, well village actually. 1 grocery store, 3 bars, 1 coffee shop, 3 putt putt places, and miles and miles of beach. It’s a cozy little town every weekend of the summer, except Labor Day, 4th of July, and Memorial Day. Those weekends thousands of people flock to the tip of the thumb to enjoy all that it has to offer. It’s crazy, but oh so much fun.
Before we went to the cabin we stopped at Maxx’s childhood home in Port Huron, sensing a Port theme? Take that same right hand palm and go to the first knuckle joint on your thumb, that’s Port Huron. We got jerky and amazing BBQ at the Country Smokehouse, that’s where the giant cow comes in. Then spent some time with some friends. After our time there we ventured up the thumb to a place I had never been before. The Sanilac Petroglyphs, ancient Native American carvings in sandstone that show some pretty awesome history. It was fun taking a little detour and getting to learn about the history of the area.
Once in Port Austin we enjoyed some awesome beer, good food, and exploring. There are tons of lighthouses in the area and we were lucky enough to see three of them, two pictured below. One of my most favorite parts of being there is going out on the boat. We tried fishing with no luck, but the views were pretty awesome! Turnip rock, a landmark in that area, was super fun to go around, especially at sunset!
Even though our time was short I loved getting away from the daily grind. It’s been an incredibly fulfilling summer with weddings, work, and friends, but getting out and seeing some new places always makes me happy. I hope that you all enjoyed your holiday weekend and got some time to relax too!
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Zach and Kate brought their wild side from Portland during their May wedding. Both animal lovers, the pair decided to celebrate with their closest friends and family at the John Ball Zoo’s Bissell Treehouse. Wedding planner Kate Wert brought her A game and decorated the reception space with lots of vintage and gold accents. Guests were delighted to hang out with a small owl and chinchilla, courtesy of the zoo. Their simple ceremony at Fountain St. Church beforehand celebrated their love and friends shared some words on love and marriage. The best part was ringing the church bells as they exited, a loud, but beautiful tradition at the church.
Throughout the whole day Zach and Kate were so relaxed and genuinely excited. It was so refreshing to see such a laid back couple truly enjoy every moment of the day. One of the most special parts of their day was when the couple introduced each person at the reception. It was a unique way to learn about the guests and hear stories of how they knew the couple. I loved how intimate it was and made for a great way to connect people from around the country who were there.
The whole wedding went off without a hitch and everyone was so kind and friendly. It was clear how many people Zach and Kate had touched throughout their lives thus far, and each detail fit together in their vision perfectly.
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Kara and Michael’s adventurous spirit was what brought them to Northern Michigan for their intimate elopement. Their family cabin nestled in the woods on Big Platte Lake was a beloved spot for years. When it came time for them to plan a wedding a small intimate gathering focusing on close family and friends was what appealed to them. With less than 30 people celebrating with them it was a day full of love, laughter, and lots of memories.
We first went to Tweddle/Treat Farm, located in the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. A hike through the woods opened up to a gorgeous abandoned homestead that was overgrown with tall grass and flowers. The two of them opted for a long and adventurous portrait session and as a photographer I was so excited to have this time with them before the day began.
What I thought would be a leisurely hike culminated in a climb up a steep sandy mountain. Although the climb seemed endless the couple were so willing to help and take breaks as we pressed on. The view was totally worth it. Miles of beach stretching in both directions, a great view of the farm, and a beautiful breeze. I cannot think of a better place that captures the essence of Northern Michigan.
We witnessed a short and sweet beach ceremony that ended in a group hug and champagne toast. Then we ended the night at the family’s cabin, where neighbors opened up their yards and grills to help celebrate. Kids and adults both changed out of their wedding attire, but not before the couple jumped into the lake for some more photos. Everyone wore fun tee shirts hand picked by the bride and enjoyed the ice cream bar for dessert. Everything was done by a loved one, from the flowers, to the dress, and the food.
This couple’s love for the outdoors and DIY spirit carried through their entire day. Friends and family enjoyed an intimate day that celebrated all of the things that they loved. I was so lucky to be a part of it.
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John and Emalee met at work through a mutual friend. At first they didn’t think it would work out but as they saw each other more the spark grew and the rest is history. That same friend ended up being the officiant at their wedding at the Dorr E. Felt Mansion in Holland, Michigan. Hearing her anecdotes about the couple provided lots of laughs and the drizzle of rain didn’t dampen anyone’s spirits.
Emalee’s dress had a gorgeous long train and the lace matched with the dress her new daughter, Honor, wore. Blending the family together and including her in the day was important when planning. The antique inspired decorations paired perfectly with the mansions already gorgeous space. Emalee and her party even got to stay in the mansion the night before.
Although the guest count was small there was definitely not a lack of energy at their reception, the alcohol was flowing and everyone was out on the dance floor. It proved to be an energetic day that came together seamlessly and I know I won’t be forgetting this wedding anytime soon.
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Meeting Lisa and Brit for the first time was like coming home to be with old friends. Their love for each other and passion for nurturing others was evident. Immediately we were chatting about all of their amazing plans for their day and I was so excited about every part. Their wedding did not disappoint and was the most incredible “Love Fest” as Brit so lovingly called it. When I told them I was offering a discount for LGBT couples in Michigan and Grand Rapids they began to tear up. They had planned their February 2017 wedding around the same time as inauguration as their own celebration that Love Trumps Hate.
Brit and Lisa are both chiropractors and lived in Iowa at the time of the wedding. Both were finishing up school and had big plans to move back to Grand Rapids and open up their own unique Chiropractic space. Many of their friends and family traveled from all corners of the country, one even flew in just for the night of the event without even packing any bags. It was truly a culmination of all of the support they have had throughout their lives.
One of the most special parts of the day was including their daughter in the festivities. Even though they left her original bridesmaid dress back home in Iowa, they had a stroke of luck and found a dress that fit perfectly and matched her mom’s. The group got ready in the gorgeous Lamb Bride space and their first look was such a special moment. I’m always tearing up during wedding’s but seeing the look on Lisa’s face as she saw her bride for the first time was so special.
Their Downtown Market Grand Rapids greenhouse ceremony and reception space was the perfect way to bring the outdoors in, especially during a Michigan February. Long tables lined the space and were adorned with lush greenery provided by Eastern Floral. Although the decorations were minimal the couple’s style shined through, a simple and earth centered theme.
When I think of what it means to love unapologetically this family comes to mind. It was clear how much they do for others when hearing guests talk about how they were a part of the couple’s lives. It is weddings like this, the simple yet beautiful ones, that make a photographer’s job so easy and exciting. I know that they will achieve everything they’ve dreamed of and I cannot wait to see where their journey takes them.
absolutely everything about these photos is amazing! beautiful shots Liv!