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Ashley and Erin | Windmill Island Gardens Queer Wedding | Holland, MI

Weddings

There is just something whimsical about fall weddings and this one was absolutely unforgettable. I am so excited to share with you Ashley and Erin’s beautiful queer wedding they had at Windmill Island Gardens in Holland, MI.

The Beginning

Their love story began when they moved onto the same floor of the Van Vleck dorm at Hope College in Holland, MI in the summer of 2014. The pair quickly became friends and found every moment to spend together, from studying (they were in the same freshman health class), to exploring Holland. During their senior year of college, Ashley and Erin set out on their first official date.

Graduation did not halt their story line as they continued to date long distance, visiting each other as often as they could. At one of Erin’s favorite beaches, Ashley proposed to her during a scavenger hunt she designed for their 3rd anniversary. Erin then proposed to Ashley a year later at her favorite place, Sleeping Bear Dunes.

The Preparation

It is amazing how they incorporated so many colors into their wedding day. Their dog, Sugar, had a cute rainbow bowtie, Ashley’s shoes had a rainbow along the outside and, of course, the floral arrangements were vibrant in every color. Out of all the details I thought were so sweet were the spoons – one said “Will you marry me?” and the other said “Will you marry me too?”. I fell in love with the delicate details of Erin’s dress as she was getting help with the back buttons. Ashley’s suit had such an elegant look to it, especially with the detail around the collar of the shirt.

One of the highlights of the queer wedding was when they did their First Look. I captured how amazed they were by each other before their big day started. Afterwards, they sat down and exchanged cards, and Ashley gave Erin a bracelet before the ceremony. To help ease the pre-ceremony jitters, we took a walk around Windmill Island Gardens, capturing the laughs and smiles along the way. This location truly is a sight to see. Once they were ready, it was time to head down the aisle!

The Ceremony

The moment arrived and friends and family awaited the couple in white chairs that led up to the gazebo. As the ceremony began and the brides made their way down, I imagined their anticipation. After an exchange of vows, Ashley and Erin shared with their guests their unity tree and what it symbolized to them. Together, they poured dirt into the pot. After the exchange of rings and THE kiss, it was official. Ashley and Erin were pronounced Mrs. and Mrs. Walking up the aisle, their guests blew bubbles over them, adding to the beauty of the moment!

The Reception

Once the reception was underway, the newlyweds shared their first dance. There were speeches and the cutting of the cake. Though one of the more significant moments of the reception was Ashley and Erin signing their marriage certificate. After a bit more dancing, they enjoyed a cold treat from The Wandering Cow ice cream truck. They snuggled up in a knit rainbow blanket, complete with hearts.

I hope that any couple planning their own queer wedding can find some inspiration for their day. Thank you for choosing me to be your photographer for such a special moment in your lives!

Congratulations Ashley and Erin!