Let’s be real, finding a photographer can be challenging. But for Maddy and Dakota, the wedding odds were in their favor!
They put a plea out to the universe (aka the local Facebook group), and bam! We connected. Over the next three months, emails flew back and forth (mostly late-night ones thanks to Maddy’s awesome third-shift schedule) as we planned their epic bash at the Historic Barns Park in Traverse City.
Maddy’s enthusiasm was wonderful! A few weeks before the big day, she sent me some of her fave online pics for inspiration. I wanted to incorporate those into her day so “Challenge accepted!” and let me tell you, those turned into some pretty killer shots.
The day itself? Pure awesomeness. I arrived at 4 pm and showed them to the sunken botanic garden, a hidden gem just waking up for spring. Think lush bushes and ancient stone walls – the perfect private spot for them to exchange some super sweet (and maybe a little mushy?) vows. I kept my distance and used my longer lens so the moment was theirs. The love between these two was so beautiful.
Speaking of love, Maddy’s accessories held a special place in her heart. Her necklace and bracelet were family heirlooms, passed down from her great-grandmother. Even more touching, a ring pinned to the back of her dress held her great-grandmother’s children’s birthstones. One of them belonged to Maddy’s grandpa, who passed away in 2021. This special piece served as her “something blue” for the day, a beautiful way to carry his memory close throughout the celebration.
The ceremony was straight out of a magazine. Held on the sprawling lawn of the Historic Barns, it was a green and floral explosion. A giant hexagon arch decked out in pale blue, white, and pink flowers framed the whole thing, adding a touch of whimsical fun.
Once they were officially hitched, things got exciting!
I captured all the happy cheers, group hugs with the wedding crew (Maddy’s squad – Audrey, Hope, Mackenzie, and Hailey; Dakota’s crew – Zach, Josh, Austin, and Hunter), and of course, family portraits under the shade of the massive barn (including Maddy’s parents, Mary and Pete, and Dakota’s parents, Amber and Matt).
But the real star of the show? B., Maddy and Dakota’s adorable three-year-old. This little dude wandered in and out photos, adding a dose of hilarious fun to the whole day. I love a good photobomber!
After portraits, it was time for the cocktail hour. Maddy and Dakota finally got to grab a drink and mingle with their guests before making their grand entrance. Speeches and toasts startted the party and filled the evening with laughter and a few tears (happy ones, of course!).
Dinner was a total win – an epic taco feast that satisfied everyone’s cravings from Barrio.
As the sun set, the light filtering through the barn created a magical glow for the first dances. Even B. couldn’t resist joining his parents on the dance floor, proving he’s definitely the coolest kid ever.
The rest of the night was a dance party for the ages! We even saw Great Grandma bust a move (seriously, this family knows how to have fun!). Maddy and Dakota also had some super cute seed packets and little pots as table gifts – a sweet reminder to “let love grow,” and throughout the reception, I snagged some awesome candid shots of everyone having a good time!
A couple weeks afterward, M and D were excited to see the final photos, so I sent them a sneak peek to hold them over. Their reaction? Pure joy! Maddy pretty much summed it up: “OMG I LOVE THEM! Seriously obsessed! Thank you SO much! They’re amazing!”
Maddy and Dakota’s wedding was all about love, family, and having a blast in beautiful Northern Michigan. It was awesome to be there and capture the magic of their special day in photos they can look back on forever. Congratulations and Thank you!
Vendors:
Venue ~ The Cathedral Barn at the Historic Barns Park
Amazing Florals~ Maddy’s Mom, Mary !
Maddy’s Dress ~ Kendra at Lakeside Bridal
Photograper ~ KarunaPhoto
Catering ~ Barrio
Cake and cupcakes ~ Totally Baked Cakes by Ruth Ann
Bartenders ~ Tipsy Chicks
