Cobblestone Farm Wedding - Bianka and Beth

Ann Arbor, MI

Congratulations to Bianka and Beth! What fun ladies! So laid-back and cool. They've actually been together for 20 years, so the declaration of their commitment and love for each other has already been there for two decades. They wanted to wait for the legalization in Michigan to legitimately tie the knot. 

These two met through work at a residential treatment center for children. Bianka said that she found herself looking forward to her shifts with Beth because of her sincerity, humor, and overall desire to help make things a little better for the children. Bagels turned into drinks, and twenty years later they are getting married!

In case you missed their engagement session with the doggies, you can check it out here:
http://lookatthebiggerpicture.com/blog/biankaandbeth

Well, we got rained out at the farm. Rain is good luck for weddings, though. It never broke anybody's spirit. I have to say, the ceremony was truly beautiful. They spoke of how, in a relationship, when you help make each other better people, you end up making the world a better place too. There was a period when they stopped the ceremony and everyone gave a sign of peace to each other. I, myself, am used to this in church, but I thought what a great breath to take right then. People were hugging and happy. This ceremony had a deeper meaning, as these two ladies act on their true deeper meanings to give to the world. Yes, I cried again.

Another favorite part for me was sitting at the "head table" with the ladies and their family! Wow! I'm never at the VIP table, so that was so nice! And, of course, Zingerman's food is THE best wedding food. Hand's down. It was a great time. 

Also!! I would love to point out that they got their flowers from Trader Joe's!! I commented on them, because I loved them so much and they looked so professional! Just a tip for my future brides out there. ;) 

I am honored that I got to document their story. Thank you, Bianka and Beth. Enjoy the preview:

National Shrine of the Little Flower, Club Venetian- Milissa and Ryan

National Shrine of the Little Flower
Club Venetian
Royal Oak, MI

Congratulations to Milissa and Ryan!! What sweet people, and such a fun, loving couple. These two met in orchestra class in high school, about 10-11 years ago. They reconnected  about three years ago and have been together ever since. Ryan proposed on Halloween, with the ring hidden in a jack o'lantern that said "Marry Me".  The hilarious story of the proposal was told by Ryan's mom/Milissa's Matron of Honor, during the toasts. It was funny, because she actually played a big role in the debacle. Keys to where the ring was hidden broke off in the lock, at the exact moment Ryan was downstairs waiting to propose... It was all good fun. I'm sure this Halloween was exciting as it was the first they shared as husband and wife.

The ceremony was absolutely beautiful, at the very well known National Shrine of the Little Flower. WhenMilissa and her father were walking down the aisle, the sun flare through the windows landed perfectly on Milissa and Ryan, as her father gave her hand to Ryan. It was truly something to see.  Another favorite part of the day for me was dancing the hustle with Milissa and the bridal party! Whoo hoo! So much fun.

In case you missed their engagement session in downtown Farmington, you can view it here: http://lookatthebiggerpicture.com/engagement-session-milissa-and-ryan/

Thank you for sharing your story with me. Enjoy the preview...

Thank you to Caedy Convis for second shooting with me!! So much fun and so much talent! 

Henry Ford Museum-Tina and Finn

Henry Ford MuseumDearborn, MI

Congratulations Tina and Finn! What a beautiful, unique, and fun day at Henry Ford! The rain just moved things around- it didn't stop these ladies one bit. Rain is actually good luck in most cultures. I was really glad it rained for them.

These two live in Boston and met online, through OK Cupid. The proposal story is pretty sweet, actually. They were in Saugatuck, visiting Christina's parents. They were watching the sunset on the lake, when TWO rings came out. Yes, they both bought rings and proposed at the same time.

Tina and Finn are so laid back, just all smiles and warmth all day. I loved the Dearborn Inn, where they were getting ready. I met Christina and her pals in one of the old houses on the property- so cool! Their first look was bright, joyful, and tearful. It was a great first look. The ceremony was transferred to the theater due to the rain. There was definitely a sense of history and relevance to having the couple say their vows under the lights, on stage. That was actually my favorite part of the day (aside from all the amazing and different photo opps in the museum)... Their vows were said in secret. It's the first time I've ever witnessed that. Each lady took a turn whispering into the other's ear vows that were only meant for her. It was still and silent in the theater, and then Christina's giggles softened the room. It was really beautiful.

Thank you for sharing your story with me! You two are amazing. Enjoy your preview...

Thank you to Shannon Vandervennet for being such a lovely and talented second shooter!! I had so much fun with you that weekend! Thank you again for hanging in there with back to back weddings!!