Eric + Lily | Traverse City Wedding

It wasn’t supposed to rain. And it definitely wasn’t supposed to downpour like it did. And maybe going down to the beach with a metal sword in the middle of a thunderstorm wasn’t the wisest idea, but it was worth it.

When we pushed our way through the heavy wooden doors of the church after the ceremony, the air felt different than it had that morning. The breeze was picking up, the sky was quickly darkening, and it smelled like rain. A quick check of the radar let us know that a sudden massive thunderstorm was making its way toward us, and fast too. So when we checked with Eric and Lily how they were feeling about our original plans for portraits out at the Old Mission lighthouse, we would have fully understand if they were no longer interested. But, these two have the most adventurous hearts and were absolutely down for photos in the rain.

So off we drove, our windshield wipers going furiously, and thunder that shook the road, until we made our way to the lighthouse parking lot. From there it was a mad dash under our tiny umbrellas and by the time we were done, we were all soaked to the bone. But nothing could wipe the smile from Eric and Lily’s faces. They were reveling in that just married feeling!!

And then, just as quickly, as soon as we arrived to their reception, the sun began to peek back out for a festive evening of tiramisu, caricatures, and dancing.

Looking back, I remember talking to Lily on the phone during our discovery call. When I asked her about her wedding vision, she shared that for the most part, her and Eric were pretty untraditional and it was important that their wedding felt like them. I think it’s pretty safe to say that was a success: their wedding day was so uniquely Eric and Lily and that made it all the more special to witness and capture.

Photographed by Miles + Sarah

Wedding Dress | Annina Dirndl

Florist | Moondance Flower Farm

Rings | Arcadian Antiques

Bolo Tie | June Metal

Hair Stylist | New Growth Hair Lounge

Catering & Tiramisu | Folgarelli’s

Alec + Audrey | Bayview Weddings at Gallagher Farms

Northern Michigan always held a special place in Alec and Audrey’s hearts. Audrey’s family had spent every summer in Glen Arbor for nearly 50 years so she had grown up visiting the area and her parents eventually decided to make the town their home (which is where photographed their winter engagement session). Eventually, Alec proposed to her while walking along the Glen Haven beach. So when the two of them finally began to plan their wedding, it was only fitting they would celebrate with friends in family at a Northern Michigan venue.

Bayview Weddings at Gallagher Farms was the perfect setting for their Michigan wedding. The ceremony site overlooked the lake with a stunning view and a large tent atop a big hill with an equally beautiful view set the scene for their reception. Audrey spent the morning getting ready with her girls in a barn amongst the cherry trees while Alec got dressed just down the road at a little cottage over a pond.

Alec and Audrey chose to save their ‘first look’ moment for the altar. When Audrey made her way down the aisle escorted by her father, Alec was overcome by the beauty of his bride. After sharing their personal vows, Alec and Audrey were finally pronounced husband and wife and the party began.

A live band preformed for the energetic crowd as multicolored lights illuminated the tent walls. From a dance-off to a Hora, the reception was filled with hilariously fun moments.

Photographed by Miles + Sarah

Venue and Coordinator | Bayview Weddings at Gallagher Farms - Rose Gallagher

Caterer | Catering by Kelly’s

Band | Bluewater Kings Band

Decorations | Event Theory

Hair and Makeup | Team Hair and Beauty

Wedding Dress | Monique Lhullier

Florist | Amy Kate Design

Engagement and Wedding Rings | Ring Concierge