Henry Ford Museum-Tina and Finn

Henry Ford MuseumDearborn, MI

Congratulations Tina and Finn! What a beautiful, unique, and fun day at Henry Ford! The rain just moved things around- it didn't stop these ladies one bit. Rain is actually good luck in most cultures. I was really glad it rained for them.

These two live in Boston and met online, through OK Cupid. The proposal story is pretty sweet, actually. They were in Saugatuck, visiting Christina's parents. They were watching the sunset on the lake, when TWO rings came out. Yes, they both bought rings and proposed at the same time.

Tina and Finn are so laid back, just all smiles and warmth all day. I loved the Dearborn Inn, where they were getting ready. I met Christina and her pals in one of the old houses on the property- so cool! Their first look was bright, joyful, and tearful. It was a great first look. The ceremony was transferred to the theater due to the rain. There was definitely a sense of history and relevance to having the couple say their vows under the lights, on stage. That was actually my favorite part of the day (aside from all the amazing and different photo opps in the museum)... Their vows were said in secret. It's the first time I've ever witnessed that. Each lady took a turn whispering into the other's ear vows that were only meant for her. It was still and silent in the theater, and then Christina's giggles softened the room. It was really beautiful.

Thank you for sharing your story with me! You two are amazing. Enjoy your preview...

Thank you to Shannon Vandervennet for being such a lovely and talented second shooter!! I had so much fun with you that weekend! Thank you again for hanging in there with back to back weddings!!

U of M Stadium! NAJETTE AND MIKE

Congratulations Najette and Mike!! U of M stadium Ann Arbor, MI

I am so beyond excited for my dear old friend and dance classmate, Najette! She was one of the sweetest people I have ever met, and many moons later, she still is. I am so happy that she found someone to make her smile everyday.  Mike does just that. What a happy, lovely, sweet couple.

So, I remember hanging out with this sweet lady during all sorts of games back in the day. Hockey, football, etc. Big time. So, when she called me about her wedding photography, I knew instantly that this venue just made sense!! Both Mike and Najette bleed maize and blue. How perfect! They met through mutual friends doing a fundraiser for kids. Mike proposed one weekend in Toronto in town-square.

This wedding was the most emotional I have yet experienced, next to my sister's. Tears were welling up behind the camera all night long.  Najette sang to Mike for the first time! I remember that her voice was amazing, but my memory didn't hold onto this well enough! It was... completely unbelievable. I just want to hear it again and again. On the radio. Did anyone tape that? Seriously. I caught Mike alone a few beats later in the hallway, emotional about Najette's surprise. That made me well up too. There were many loving thoughts of family members who have passed on, especially Najette's mom, and speeches about holding the ones you love near and dear. Family held on tight, tighter, and tighter still throughout the night. The significant dances started out intimate, then just grew to circles of both sides uniting together. It was truly beautiful. Linked arms and hearts. These families are such an important part of Najette and Mike. It was truly touching. I am welling up all over again for the happiness of my friend... I am so happy for you both!

Thank you for choosing me to document your story. Enjoy your preview...

Special thanks to Shannon Vandervennet for the amazing second shooting! I had so much fun with you this weekend!

Amway Grand Plaza, McKay Tower-JESSICA AND SHANE

Amway Grand Plaza
McKay Tower
Grand Rapids, MI

Congratulations to Jessica and Shane!! What an elegant, extravagant celebration!

Grand Rapids, MI

Amway Grand Plaza McKay Tower

Congratulations to Jessica and Shane!! What an elegant, extravagant celebration! These two are so fun and connected to each other. I love getting to photograph them because they easily forget the camera and are just tuned into each other.

The two met as co-workers years ago. They had to keep their relationship a secret because they were working together- even from best friends. It all sounds very sneaky and romantic. Years later, Jess and Shane found themselves building a house in Muskegon. They were on a walk by the lake one day, when Shane stopped at a gazebo and proposed. The proposal was caught on film, by someone working on the house with them. Sneaky sneaky.

In case you missed their romantic winter engagement session, you may view it here: https://lookatthebiggerpicture.com/blog/winter-engagement-session-jessica-and-shane  

ArtPrize happened to be our backdrop in the city for the wedding day, which worked out perfectly, as the couple are attached to Grand Rapids and all its main sights. We  played around the blue bridge, the river, Rosa Parks Circle...  The city really is a beautiful background.

I loved the fact that Jessica kept twirling like a giddy little girl. It was adorable.

Thank you so much for choosing me to capture your story. Enjoy the preview!

Special thanks to Caedy Convis, my amazing second photographer!! This day was that much better because of you!

Also, a special mention to the artist, Rena Detrixhe, who created the piece "Watershed", located in public and used in some images. It is a beautiful piece and was so cool to view Jessica and Shane through it!!