Kyra and Kray are two of the sweetest people I’ve had the pleasure of working with. Their day was filled with so much love and fun! It was an honor to be their Grand Rapids wedding photographer. This classic downtown Grand Rapids inspired wedding had so many amazing details!

The Couple

Kyra found me online after searching for a Grand Rapids wedding photographer and during out coffee meeting we instantly clicked. She told me about Kray and absolutely lit up. It was a clear sign that this wedding would be a blast. She said “We met at running club my freshman year, his sophomore year of college. For us it was love at second sight. When Kray and I met, he was actually in a different relationship. I tried my best to just forget about him, but once he became single, that didn’t last too long.  We joke sometimes that my determination is what got us here, but I’m always happy that I didn’t give up on him”. I’m pretty glad they didn’t give up because seeing them together on their wedding day made it clear it was meant to be.

The Wedding

We started the day in Downtown Grand Rapids for their first look. It is a popular spot amongst Grand Rapids wedding photographers and there were a few other wedding parties there too! We were a bit nervous about the rain but luckily it held off for them and the overcast day provided amazing skies! Their sweet first look was one of my favorites, if you know Kyra and Kray in real life you know how freaking incredible their smiles are. Their wedding party braved the chilly drizzly day and were so willing to just let go and have fun to support the couple. After we finished portraits we headed over to Christ Church where the ceremony was to be held. this simple but beautiful space really was the perfect place for them to seal the deal. With two members of the clergy Kyra and Kray were able to bring their families together in a wonderfully unique way. We then headed to the Revel Center for cocktails and the reception! Revel Center is a relatively new space in Grand Rapids and seems unassuming from the outside. Kyra told me how she couldn’t believe the place was as gorgeous as it is when she first visited. They’ve done an amazing job creating an intimate reception space near downtown.

The whole day was all smiles, I cannot begin to explain the joy this couple radiates. I’m so happy for the both of you and know you have a strong marriage ahead of you!

Check out more from Liv Lyszyk Photography on her website! For more incredible couples see the links below to read more!

Julia and Robert | Riverside Park, Grand Rapids, MI | Grand Rapids Engagement Photographer

Ann Katherine and Jermaine | Meadowbrook Country Club Wedding | Detroit Wedding Photographer

Josh and Ashley | Meijer Gardens, MI | Grand Rapids Elopement Photographer

This GORGEOUS Detroit country club wedding was such an honor to photograph. I love being a Detroit wedding photographer and getting to see all of the amazing suburbs and hidden gems of the city. This particular place feels like an oasis from the city, perfect for Ann Katherine and Jermaine. There is quite the story behind it too if you read on!

The Couple

Ann Katherine and Jermaine found me online as they are both living in Washington DC area. It was no easy feat planning from so far away but these two absolutely nailed it! Their love story began in the summer of 2015 when the two and a large group of mutual friends attended the Vintage Virginia Wine Fest in Centreville, VA. During the event Jermaine played it cool and stuck with some of his friends, leaving Ann Katherine scanning the crowd for him throughout the day. When the group was departing the venue Jermaine rushed on the bus and saved a seat for himself and Ann Katherine. After a long day of wine tasting the two sat together on the bus ride to Arlington and enjoyed a two ounce bag of Planters peanuts, spontaneous karaoke, and terrible jokes. Unsurprisingly, ten days later Jermaine and Ann Katherine went on their first date! The two enjoyed each other’s company over a few margaritas at a local D.C. Mexican restaurant. Ann Katherine gorged herself on chips while Jermaine was clearly too nervous to indulge. What followed was a month-long courtship, during which Jermaine planned some of the most unique dates, including a night out at the Newseum for a movie premiere. Just before Ann Katherine’s 27th birthday they made it official. Jermaine promises to keep Ann Katherine on her toes with spontaneous dates throughout the marriage!

The Wedding

The couple planned on marrying at a different country club not too far from Meadowbrook, but when they experienced a tragic fire it was up to them to quickly search for a new venue just 2 months before! Luckily Ann Katherine’s mother was able to show them Meadowbrook and they fell in love! Not something every couple has to experience, but I knew if they could get through that everything else would be a breeze!

It was so fun walking into where they were getting ready and just instantly feeling at home. Both Ann Katherine and Jermaine are the most welcoming and kind people I’ve met. They both made sure the day went smoothly and even was ahead of schedule! Any Detroit wedding photographer or any wedding photographer for that matter will tell you that rarely happens! Ann Katherine had her makeup and hair done by Jamie Jean Beauty and looked stunning! She also wore a Lazaro Bridal gown that went so well with Jermaine’s gray suit from Men’s Warehouse.

They opted to not do a first look and seeing Jermaine’s face while Ann Katherine excitedly walked down the aisle was such a sweet moment. We got some great photos of their families and then headed out to explore more of what Meadowbrook Country Club had to offer! I loved getting some time with just the two of them and seeing them interact! These two are perfect for each other! We then enjoyed an amazing dinner and a PACKED dance floor thanks to Detroit DJ Entertainment.

It was a full day with lots of fun, family, and photos! Congrats again to the happy couple! Wishing you the best in your long and happy marriage!

For more information on how to hire Liv Lyszyk Photography feel free to head to the Contact Form to learn more! Check out the blog posts below for more weddings and engagements!

Michigan Backyard Wedding Photographer | Chelsea and Cody | Coldwater, Michigan

Jade and Kevin | Grand Rapids Art Museum and Riverside Park | Grand Rapids Engagement Photographer

Emily and Ang | Grand Haven and Muskegon, MI | LGBTQ Wedding Photographer

I have been putting off blogging this wedding because that means that it’s actually over and I never wanted this day to end. Chelsea and Cody of Wildflower and Whimsy are the absolute best! From the very first email when they first were looking for a Michigan backyard wedding photographer I knew we’d be a perfect fit. Chelsea has the most joyous spirit which balances perfectly with Cody’s quiet and gentle demeanor. They just are so lovely!

The Couple

Chelsea and Cody met on a blind date, a fun story that was shared during their sweet ceremony. She says “Cody & I both knew we loved each other the night we met. He’s the ying to my yang, the peanut butter to my jelly. We are completely different but so the same. We share a mutual love of kindness towards everybody, cherishing the little things and never going to bed angry. Our relationship is nowhere near perfect but we work very hard on it every single day. I know this love will last a lifetime”. The pair owns an incredible home decor business and wanted to include as much of their own work and creations for the day. It turned out so special and perfectly captured the two of them.

The Wedding

This Michigan backyard wedding took place on a relative’s property on Coldwater lake in Coldwater, MI. The house bumps up against a canal which allowed the wedding party to arrive to the ceremony by boat! It was a perfectly Michigan entrance! I love being a Michigan backyard wedding photographer and seeing all of the personal touches that each location adds. As I mentioned Chelsea and Cody made all of the decor which really spiced up the place and made it their own! I loved walking through the space and really getting a sense of their style. I got to capture an incredible first look and then we all headed to a friends property! It was nice getting to go somewhere while family and friends finished up the final touches for the couple. After the ceremony we headed on a quick boat ride and then right into the reception. The homemade taco bar thrilled everyone and the dances brought tears to everyone’s eyes. With both Chelsea and Cody losing a parent the memorial table with photos and the memorial dance was so special.

I’m so happy to know these two, it was an honor being their Michigan backyard wedding photographer. They both embody what it is to have a strong selfless relationship. I know that we will remain close for years to come and I’m just thrilled that they are finally married!

For more info on Liv Lyszyk Photography check out the blog posts below! To get in contact please go to the website and fill out the contact form!

Alicia and Todd | Eaton Rapids, MI | Mid Michigan Wedding Photographer

Emily and Ang | Grand Haven and Muskegon, MI | LGBTQ Wedding Photographer

Lisa and Brit | Downtown Market, Grand Rapids, Michigan | LGBT Wedding Photographer

Alicia and Todd had a classic elegant wedding at English Inn in Eaton Rapids, MI! I was so excited to shoot here, the venue is sprawling and sits against a gorgeous river, the perfect backdrop for their ceremony and photos! I haven’t photographed much in the Mid Michigan area, but was so excited to add Mid Michigan wedding photographer to my resume. Even though it ended up being the hottest day in Michigan EVERRRRR (ok I’m only slightly kidding), we pushed through and got so many amazing photographs!

The Couple

Alicia and Todd have known each other since 1st grade! I imagine they had no clue back then that this would be their future. I absolutely love hearing that couples have known each other for so long, it makes for a pretty great story doesn’t it? Alicia said “We weren’t really friends throughout school, but one day I messaged him on facebook we chatted online for a few weeks, then he asked me for a date, the rest was magic”, cue the happy tears. It was so clear that these two were meant to be together and when I asked them what they were most excited about they said “to marry my best friend”. That’s what it’s all about!

The Wedding

Like I said it was HOT! The instant we went outside of the little cottages where they were getting ready I think we all audibly gasped! I was so impressed with how willing everyone was to walk around the grounds to get those perfect shots. The grounds offer a lot of variety which was so nice, we were able to go down by the river, as well as use the actual Inn for some great photos. The ceremony was short and sweet, their officiant spoke about each of them in such a perfect way. All of the family and guests definitely shed a few tears. There was a lavender toss and it was onto the party! They enjoyed some amazing cocktails and appetizers before going into the reception space. I loved how they kept everything classic and elegant, fitting perfectly with the look of the venue itself. I was really impressed with the staff and service as well! Everyone loved getting down on the dance floor after dinner too! All in all this day was such a fun celebration of the couple, I feel like I got to know them so well and I cannot wait to see them grow through this marriage!

If you are interested in seeing more from Liv Lyszyk Photography check out the linked posts below! Liv Lyszyk Photography is now booking for 2019 weddings and elopements in Grand Rapids, Michigan and beyond! Please use the Contact form on the website or feel free to email livlyszykphoto@gmail.com

Nicole and Andrew’s Sunset Elopement in Fennville, MI

Erica and Nathan’s Intimate Backyard wedding in Fenton, MI

Winnie and Eric’s Michigan State University Engagement session in East Lansing, MI

Ashley and Josh had the most gorgeous intimate Meijer Gardens Elopement! I love being a Grand Rapids elopement photographer, especially when I get to go to one of my favorite venues in the area! These two also did their engagement session at Meijer Gardens in the winter so coming back and seeing how different it is during the summer is a real treat!

The Couple 

These two met online and after dating for 4 years decided it was time to start their lives together as husband and wife! Ashley has such a sweet and caring personality and Josh is so level headed and calm. Getting to know them was so fun, especially since Ashley has an art background and went to Kendall College with me! Both of them said how important it was to keep the ceremony and celebration small and all about family!

The Elopement

Everything was kept simple, about 15 people attended, most of which were close family. Ashley’s dress was simple and elegant, form fitting without being too tight! She looked absolutely incredible with her formal updo and bouquet from Stems Market. Josh rocked the dark gray suit and was definitely one of the most dapper grooms I’ve worked with! 

We did a first look with the two of them but also a father first look which if you ask me was the greatest thing ever! I wish every first look was as incredible and emotional as this one, but quiet intimate moments are amazing too. We headed to the Japanese garden for the ceremony who was officiated by the groom’s brother, something he was very proud to do. After that we got a chance to explore the grounds and even did a secret first dance in the conservatory. 

This gorgeous day was such a fun time! If you are looking for a Grand Rapids elopement photographer check out Liv Lyszyk Photography  and contact for more info! To see more from Liv check out the blog posts below! 

Winnie and Eric’s Adventurous Michigan State Engagement Session! https://livlyszyk.com/winnie-and-eric-michigan-state-university-east-lansing-mi-michigan-engagement-photographer/

Erica and Nathan’s Intimate Backyard Wedding https://livlyszyk.com/michigan-backyard-wedding-photographers/

T and R’s Traditional LGBTQ Wedding https://livlyszyk.com/t-and-r-mason-mi-lgbtq-wedding-photographer/

The Couple

These two have an epic and long love story! Meredith and Greg met at Applebee’s while they both were working. Meredith says “He was a cook, I made the plates pretty.  He was the only one that made my job easier.  We bonded over a love of swimming, Clive Cussler books and our senses of humor.  We love movies, outdoor activities, our pets and 17 years later, decided it’s time to make it official”. When I met Meredith and Greg in person their absolute joy was so apparent and got me super excited to work with them! I was even more excited to check out Apple Blossom Chapel and Gardens because even though I’m a Grand Rapids wedding photographer, and it’s only a short trip away, I hadn’t ever been there!

The Wedding

When describing the wedding Meredith told me they wanted it to feel like a big backyard party with their friends and family. The tented reception space and gorgeous ceremony space felt just like that. They did a gorgeous first look under the old apple tree, and Greg’s reaction was so perfect! We grabbed some wedding party photos and then got ready for the short and sweet ceremony. A little humor, a lot of love, and some vows later, these two were finally married! We were able to enjoy cocktail hour and proceeded to enjoy their huge pig roast! Fun fact, Greg works in catering, so he was able to help prepare a lot of the food we got to taste!

I love when I’m able to connect and meet family and friends at weddings, and this group of people was the best! I chatted with the group at my table and enjoyed hearing the stories about the couple throughout the years. The couple is clearly so loved by everyone they meet! I enjoyed getting to take them out during sunset and getting some more photos, as well as their gorgeous sparkler exit!

Being a Grand Rapids wedding photographer I’m always on the lookout for amazing venues in the surrounding areas. Apple Blossom was the perfect place for this couple and I’m so glad we were able to get so many amazing photos! Congrats you two!

Thank you to Apple Blossom Chapel, Pistachio’s catering, Redefine Med Spa, and Dixie May Donn for their help in making this day special! Congrats again to Meredith and Greg on their gorgeous Michigan Summer wedding!

If you are looking for a Grand Rapids wedding photographer and would like more info please use the contact form on my website or email livlyszykphoto@gmail.com to see more check out these blog posts below!

Nicole and Andrew | Apple Blossom Chapel and Gardens | Sunset Elopement Photographer

Winnie and Eric | Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI | Michigan Engagement Photographer

Emily and Maija | Grand Rapids, MI | LGBT and Same Sex Photographer

Nicole and Andrew had the most gorgeous intimate wedding early this June! They needed a sunset elopement photographer and while I never thought I be so lucky, I got chosen to capture their big day! With only about 15 people in attendance, they wanted this evening to be simple and all about joining their family together. Hearing all about their plans got me so excited for this challenge! I’m so happy with how it turned out!

Their Story

After meeting online the two instantly had a connection. Nicole says that they didn’t sleep for the first few weeks. After their first date it was love at first sight and they haven’t left each other since. Andrew’s son is a huge part of their love story and Nicole is so happy to help raise him. During the ceremony there was a special gift for him, but you’ll have to read about that below! Even before meeting them I could tell how much they cared for each other.

The Wedding

This was my first time at Apple Blossom Chapel and Gardens in Fennville, Michigan. It’s a quaint little place nestled in amongst the trees and is perfect for weddings of all sizes. This elopement was held in the tiny chapel on the property. I never considered myself a sunset elopement photographer especially because before this year I didn’t had a ton of night time portrait experience. So I’m glad that I had the experience to make it the best it could be! Anyway, during their short and sweet ceremony Nicole surprised their son with an engraved watch. Seeing her take the time to make it special for him as well was a testament to her sweet nature. I don’t think there was a dry eye!

After the ceremony we snapped some family photos and then proceeded around the property to experiment and play with my lighting to get some portraits. I absolutely loved having so much time to spend with just the two of them. Normally I’m feeling restrained by a timeline so this was a real treat! I think it really turned out well!

I’m so happy that now I can say that I’m a sunset elopement photographer! These two were so gracious and sweet throughout the whole process. They are definitely stuck with me as their lifelong photographer now! Congrats again you two! I can’t wait to see you grow as a new family!

Congrats again to Nicole and Andrew! For more information on hiring Liv Lyszyk as your wedding photographer feel free to fill out the contact form to get in touch! To see more amazing couples check out the blog posts below!

Meredith and Greg | Apple Blossom Chapel, Fennville, MI | Grand Rapids Wedding Photographer

Erica and Nathan | Michigan Backyard Wedding | Michigan Wedding Photographers

Lisa and Brit | Downtown Market, Grand Rapids, Michigan | LGBT Wedding Photographer

I knew from the first email that Erica send me that we were going to be a great fit. After looking through some other Michigan wedding photographers Erica was really drawn to my work, and I think it might have been the quickest someone has hired me! She told me of their vision of a simple backyard wedding in Nathan’s parent’s backyard! I was absolutely ecstatic since I LOVE intimate weddings, especially when the location has meaning. Getting to know the two of them throughout the planning process was so fun and the day of their wedding was a blast!

Their Story

Erica and Nathan met through mutual friends at a party! After feeling a bit of a spark started talking on the phone and chatting online. It took about a month for Nathan to ask her out on a date, but she says she had never been so excited for a date before. Clearly that spark never fizzled out and the rest is history! Their relationship spanned over 7 years but both of them say it was worth the wait and perfect timing for their relationship.

The Wedding

I loved the backyard where they got married had a beautiful line of pine trees, a rustic fence looking out on a farm, and a gorgeous deck! Basically a dream for Michigan wedding photographers. It was so fun using the space for photos. Nathan commented that the photos we took made him see it in such a new light. The morning ceremony took place under a gorgeous arbor, and the grass was even mowed in the shape of a heart. A sweet touch from his parent’s who did a great job making it feel cozy.

They had a short and sweet ceremony that celebrated their love for each other and God. We then went to The Laundry in Fenton, Michigan for a brunch reception! The casual day was perfect for Erica and Nathan, who wanted to keep the focus on family. They even had a small cake made for their grandparents, whose wedding anniversary is the same day!

It was a joy seeing these two say “I do”! I’m so glad that out of all of the Michigan wedding photographers they chose me to capture it! I know these two will have a lifetime of happiness!

This gorgeous Cog Hill Country Club Wedding in the Chicago Area was the perfect way to jump into my main wedding photography season! Davis and Matt told me about their vision for an elegant travel themed wedding and I was so excited to see their vision come to life! These two met on a dating site after Matt read Davis’ bio saying “Talk to me about pizza and traveling.” Flash forward to January 7th, 2016 where Matt met Davis for a slice of pizza in Lakeview. One slice of pizza turned into two beers and four hours of wonderful conversation.

Their Love Story

When I asked about their proposal they said “Our first international trip together was to Iceland in 2017! On the first day, we hopped in our car and drove to Vik, Iceland.  The main attractions were the black sand beaches (look them up!) and we were so excited to be on the trip we had been planning for months! We were walking around the beach taking pictures, looking at the beautiful black rock formations, listening to the waves, and just enjoying the moment. Davis saw a big rock down the beach, pointed to it, and said, ‘Let’s go climb that!’ After scrambling to the top, she started taking photos. She was turning from side-to-side with her back to Matt. And when she finally turned around, he was down on one knee!!”

She said yes.

Their Wedding Day

When I arrived where Davis was getting ready I could just feel the love surrounding her. The sweet first looks with her parents and bridesmaids brought tears to everyone’s eyes, including mine! The day was filled with so many stories of their love and connection, hearing their vows really captured exactly how excited they were to be married! After a delicious dinner the whole wedding tore it up on the dance floor! Their DJ, a family friend, kept everyone moving and grooving until it was time for their international flag send off! Perfect as they were jetting off for their European Honeymoon!

I’m so thankful for the chance to be a part of this gorgeous Cog Hill Country Club Wedding! It was so perfect and captured the essence of Davis and Matt! Congrats you two!

 

Emily and Ang’s epic love story was 10 years in the making. When these two reached out and told me about themselves I immediately wanted to work with them, and quickly became friends with the pair! Their simple church ceremony held at St John’s Episcopal Church in Grand Haven, Michigan was filled with a beautiful sermon about the meaning of love and marriage. With a few qitty jokes peppered in, the program included so many little details that celebrated Emily and Ang’s love. After the ceremony the wedding headed to the Century Club Ballroom in Muskegon, Michigan. Despite the impending ice storm everyone kept warm in the book and fantasy themed space. Emily spent a good chunk of time crafting the paper flower centerpieces with friends at a bar and the attention to detail was perfect.

When asked about how they met Emily writes “We met online through a text-based role-playing game in 2006. (We tended to write as brothers. Yeah, that’s kind of weird now) Ang is from Australia and I’m from Michigan, so time zones were a mess but we both love hockey & books & so regularly chatted for a few years over AOL instant messenger (RIP). In 2008, Ang did the Australian thing and took a big trip around North America. I invited her to stay with me in Lansing, Michigan for a week. She came, we went to a Red Wings playoff game, and she’s been coming back every year ever since. (Probably because of the hockey!) We became best friends and had planned to spend our lives together even though we thought our relationship was platonic at first. Spoiler: it wasn’t”.

With Emily living in Michigan during their relationship and Ang living in Brisbane Australia the pair looks forward to finally getting to be part of each other’s every day lives in a practical way – to be able to give hugs or make dinner or bring each other coffee. Also being able to have each others’ back without worrying that there’s a 21 hour plane trip in between us if something goes wrong. And being able to share a house and make a home! It’s clear already that the two of them are just smitten in their new home in Australia and we all look forward to seeing how much they blossom on this new journey!