The clouds hung low in the sky as the Lake Michigan waves crashed in to the shore. The possibility of rain left the air sticky, but it couldn’t deter Stephanie’s excitement for her wedding day. Nestled along the beach, Billy stood anxiously waiting to see his bride. As she walked up behind him, Stephanie hugged him tight and waited for a moment… not wanting the moment to be swept away so fast. When Billy turned to see her, they fell into each other’s embrace … only pulling away to show Billy her wedding dress.
They invited their friends and family to share in their wedding in Michigan where they became husband and wife overlooking a beautiful vineyard. Stephanie and Billy promised to make each other better, to perfect the process of loving each other, and to always support each other in their quest for their dreams. Their love left Michigan better than they found it.
Stephanie and Billy – I think you are something kind of wonderful. What I want to write is a billion words to express my gratitude, but for the sake of time, I hope a simple thank you will suffice. I feel blessed to have been such an important part of your day, and I wish you all the happiness in the world. I hope you are savoring all of paradise in French Polynesia!
Stephanie got ready at a lake house in New Buffalo …
and had lots of sparkling accessories …
Her sister and her mom helped her dress … ensuring everything was perfect.
Billy and Stephanie opted to see each other before the ceremony so they could enjoy cocktail hour with their friends and family.
Billy was clearly excited to see his future wife.
Stephanie looked gorgeous all day long …
Stephanie and Billy surrounded themselves with an amazing group of friends (and one amazing, pup, Zoey). I had a blast hanging out with them.
Oliveti Events designed all of the beautiful floral.
The guys were full of laughter and jokes all day …
And this is the sweetest / cutest flower girl, Alexa!
Stephanie and Billy set aside ample time for photographs around the Willow Harbor Vineyards for photos in this beautiful location.
A personal favorite ….
Zoey wanted to be right at her parent’s side ….
Willow Harbor Vineyards is so picturesque. I never wanted to leave.
Zoey, the couple’s rescue pup, was a part of the wedding, and she sat in the front row watching her parent’s marry.
Many thanks to Kelly, my assistant, for snapping this photo of Stephanie and her dad!
Stephanie and Billy are the type of people who put the needs of those around them first. It was no surprise that they have amassed the most amazing group of friends and family to witness their love.
Sweet vows for an even sweeter couple …
So much love ….
The moment their marriage is official!
Billy made sure their first kiss was memorable.
Stephanie and Billy snuck away for a few moments so we could document their love among the beautiful vineyards.
The light was simply perfect …
Guests enjoyed Harbor Valley’s own pinot noir during cocktail hour as they enjoyed the beauty of the venue.
Stephanie envisioned a romantic spring wedding with elements of mixed metals.
Stephanie and Billy heard some of the most heartwarming speeches … and Steph willed herself not to cry during them.
The first dance …
It is one of my favorite parts of the day to photograph … and this is why.
…. so much love and so much happy!
…. and then it was party time .. complete with lots of dancing and fun!
… and lots of fun!
As the sun set, guests enjoyed a perfect May evening in Michigan.
A huge thank you to all of the team members who ensured the best day ever for Stephanie and Billy.
VENUE : Willow Harbor Vineyards
WEDDING COORDINATOR : Lauren, Oliveti Events
FLORAL : Oliveti Events
BRIDE’S HAIR + MAKEUP : Le Roc Salon (Ashley + Melissa)
MUSICIANS : Gaska Quartet
CAKE : Wild Flour
INVITATIONS : Wedding Paper Divas
VIDEOGRAPHY : Lexoria Wedding Videography
PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT : Kelly Mccue
PHOTOGRAPHY : Brittany Bekas Photography
Awesome Steph and Billy! So well planned, even down to the beautiful weather. We have never been to New Buffalo, but we would love to go back again, cute little town!