{Alpena Engagement | Chelsea + Eric}

{alpena, michigan | september 2020}

Unbeknownst to Chelsea, Eric had picked out the ring in February prior to everything being closed due to COVID and was finally able to pick it up on Friday, June 19th. Eric had Saturday, June 20th, off so Chelsea had previously asked him about a day trip to Mackinac Island. He decided that that would be the perfect time to propose so he stopped at her brother’s house after getting the ring to ask his permission/blessing. In typical big brother mode, he promptly told Eric that he knew what he was getting himself in for. Saturday, they made our way to the Island and ultimately decided to meander around the perimeter. About three miles in, Eric complained about having a rock in his shoe and Chelsea wasn’t sure how that was possible. Now a little suspicious, Chelsea stopped with Eric by the water, he sat down, reached into his shoe, and promptly pulled out an actual pebble. The meandering got underway again until Chelsea stopped at the first clear view of the bridge to take picture and, at that time, Eric pulled out the ring box to propose. It was upside down, which Chelsea told him before promptly giggling out a “yes.”

Some advice from these two for future couples planning their wedding:

Be engaged with the planning. The planning process can be a lot of fun, especially if it’s a team effort. Enjoy it and surround yourself with people who are excited to participate in your happiness.

July will be here before we know it!

{Suttons Bay Elopement | Tatum + Josh}

{suttons bay, michigan | september 2020}

Tatum + Josh

Tatum’s favorite memory of the day: My favorite part of the day was hearing Josh’s wedding vows. His love language is definitely not “words of affirmation” so I know it took him some time and thought to write them and I just loved hearing them. I will cherish those words forever.

Josh’s favorite memory of the day: Seeing Tatum walk out in her dress for the first time. This was a moment I had waited over a year for and she looked absolutely stunning. I couldn’t control the smile on my face as the most perfect bride walked towards me.

Honeymoon location: We went on a mini-moon to Elk Rapids due to travel restrictions with Covid. We stayed at a beautiful house on the water and had a very relaxing trip. We still plan to do a more tropical honeymoon once travel limitations are lifted.

{First Birthday | Collin Patrick}

{mio, michigan | september 2020}

This little boy is one of my favorite little boys out there. I got to watch him come into the world {reference Home Birth // CPD on the blog} and its so crazy that he is already a year old. Where has the time gone?!

While Collin was growing up, every month milestone they would get a pizza and show with the slices how old he was. So obviously we had to do a pizza smash for his first birthday photos. It just makes sense. So enjoy him

{West Michiagn Wedding | Brittany + Hayden}

{zeeland, michigan | august 2020}

Brittany + Hayden

Brittany’s favorite memory of the day: Finally walking down the isle with my dad towards Hayden!! Celebrating with family and friends who love us, it meant the world to us!

Hayden’s favorite memory of the day: Seeing Brittany for the first time in a gorgeous dress and dancing with my wife for the first time.

Honeymoon location: To be determined! Was supposed to be Hawaii but due to COVID plans have changed. We may bypass a honeymoon and buy a house!!

Ceremony Venue: Private Barn | Reception Venue: Private Barn | Getting Ready Location: Private Residence | Officiant: Tom Grabill | Florist: Our Flower Shoppe | Dessert: Holland Cakery ‘n’ Sweets | Hair: Cassie Otten | Makeup: Marie Snyder | Bridal Gown: Spring Sweet | Groom Suit: Combat Gents | Rings: Kessler’s Jeweler | Invitations: Magnet Street |