Claire and Tom are the 5th wedding we have been fortunate to photograph from this group of wonderful families!  Each and every one of these couples are special to us.  Such wonderful people, and the hospitality and love they have shown us through the years is truly a gift!

Though the wedding was in Michigan, not Cincinnati or Cleveland, they were still thrilled to bring us up to Claire’s families’ lakeside cottage.  This was a special place that Claire came to for summer weekends growing up.  So naturally it was just perfect for their wedding pictures to begin there! The wedding day prep at the cottage had such special moments between Clair’s mother and sisters, as well as her first look with her dad.  This family is very close and we loved capturing these sweet moments!

Tom and the guys were at a super cool cottage just around the corner from Claire. It was a perfect groomsmen location.  Tom’s dad helping him with his tie and getting his hair “just right” were all fun moments that I feel John captured perfectly.

Claire’s parent’s cottage was so cute that we had their first look right on the patio. This was a beautiful “first look”.  So much emotion from both of them. And I have to mention Claire’s big amazing smile, really shows her personality & matches her sweet demeanor and disposition perfectly!

From the cottage everyone hopped on the beautiful red trolly.  I was amazed when EVERYONE removed their shoes and made their way down to the beach.  What an incredible wedding party! They were all so happy for Claire and Tom!

Next up was the ceremony location in Benton Harbor, 12 Corners Vineyard.

The guest were happily greeted with a glass of wine as they walked through the vineyards to the beautiful ceremony location among the apple orchard.  There was a flowered trellis, and a beautiful cross made from driftwood.  Among the blue details, I think I loved this the most.  Outdoor weddings are wonderful for so many reasons, but one for me is the ability to go every direction to capture the vows and moments!  Both John and I loved shooting through the apple trees!!

After the ceremony, were more family groups, wedding party and then capturing the bride and groom in the orchards.  It was nice to get two very different locations for their pictures!

As the sun was setting, the cocktail hour began with a wall of Champaign, letting guest know their seating arrangement.  So cool and perfect for an outdoor event.  There was also the cutest vintage van photo booth!  Very fun for guest pictures & ours!  As the evening progressed the dancing was never ending and the guest were treated with a late night snack, of hot pretzels & hotdogs…like food from their favorite sport, baseball!

I’d like to end with a huge thank you to Tom, Claire and their families for inviting us to capture such a special day with such very special people.  Congratulations Tom and Claire!

Hair & Makeup- Elegant on Arrival-Christina

Florist-Stella Event Design

Dress Shoppe-Grace Loves Lace-Chicago

Dress Designer-Sustainable Grace

DJ-Bee Entertainment

Venue-12 Corners Vineyard
Love when mother nature makes a statement during the vows. 😉 Look at the beautiful driftwood cross above.
Cute Lauren and her baby bump