Hey sweet friends!
Today I get to share the most EPIC wedding celebration that recently took place at Empire Bluffs, part of the stunning Sleeping Bear Dunes here in northern Michigan!
Rebecca and Josh’s journey to the altar began at Bliss Fest a few years back, a magical music festival where their hearts found the rhythm of love.
Fast forward to the big day, and these two amazing people wove their hearts together at the breathtaking Empire Bluffs, surrounded by nature’s beauty, and friends and family.
Sometimes you meet a couple who seem to defy nearly every convention and tradition. Their style is eclectic, irreverent yet joyful.
I was so excited to photograph their day!
Even more after R+J’s engagement session. The views, love, and celebration were incredible.
Picture this: a scenic backdrop of dunes and a radiant sun shone over Lake Michigan. As guests made the 20-minute trek to the ceremony site, the anticipation was palpable. But trust me, the view was worth every step!
I was positioned halfway to photograph guests and the wedding party arriving on the trail.
Rebecca, a vision of bohemian beauty, stunned in a sleeveless lace wedding dress paired with combat boots, warrior priestess jewelry, and braided hair. Meanwhile, Josh rocked an all-purple suit, proving that wedding attire should be whatever you want. It’s your day!
The ceremony was nothing short of magical, filled with sacred rituals and a specially crafted altar. Rebecca’s entrance, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of female drummers, added an extra layer of enchantment to the celebration.
The couple exchanged vows, sealing their commitment in a way that was as unique as themselves.
One of the most touching moments?
The blending of water from their home river and sand from the dunes in a glass jar.
This symbolic gesture, done as part of their vows, serves as a reminder that even when life gets a little shaky, everything will settle and become clear again.
Their nephew was the ring bearer. He was right on time :).
After the ceremony, the celebration continued at Rebecca and Josh’s riverside home.
Friends and family, adorned in vibrant colors, danced the night away with One Hot Robot performing along with a feast and treats created by Josh + friends and family.
R+J had Michael Carrizales roast the pig to perfection.
Josh’s Aunts Gina and Donna created all the fun and unique desserts.
Congratulations, Rebecca and Josh!!!
Your gathering was a tribute to a love deeply rooted in the earth.
From expressing themselves to the heartfelt rituals, Rebecca and Josh crafted an experience that echoed the essence of their souls and the path that led them into each other’s arms.
When two bohemian spirits join and celebrate, it’s only fitting that the special day be as unique as they are!
So here’s to Rebecca and Josh – may your love continue to bloom, and your jar of blended water and sand always remind you that even in the stormiest times, clarity and calmness are just a shake away. :)
