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!!

U of M Stadium! NAJETTE AND MIKE

Congratulations Najette and Mike!! U of M stadium Ann Arbor, MI

I am so beyond excited for my dear old friend and dance classmate, Najette! She was one of the sweetest people I have ever met, and many moons later, she still is. I am so happy that she found someone to make her smile everyday.  Mike does just that. What a happy, lovely, sweet couple.

So, I remember hanging out with this sweet lady during all sorts of games back in the day. Hockey, football, etc. Big time. So, when she called me about her wedding photography, I knew instantly that this venue just made sense!! Both Mike and Najette bleed maize and blue. How perfect! They met through mutual friends doing a fundraiser for kids. Mike proposed one weekend in Toronto in town-square.

This wedding was the most emotional I have yet experienced, next to my sister's. Tears were welling up behind the camera all night long.  Najette sang to Mike for the first time! I remember that her voice was amazing, but my memory didn't hold onto this well enough! It was... completely unbelievable. I just want to hear it again and again. On the radio. Did anyone tape that? Seriously. I caught Mike alone a few beats later in the hallway, emotional about Najette's surprise. That made me well up too. There were many loving thoughts of family members who have passed on, especially Najette's mom, and speeches about holding the ones you love near and dear. Family held on tight, tighter, and tighter still throughout the night. The significant dances started out intimate, then just grew to circles of both sides uniting together. It was truly beautiful. Linked arms and hearts. These families are such an important part of Najette and Mike. It was truly touching. I am welling up all over again for the happiness of my friend... I am so happy for you both!

Thank you for choosing me to document your story. Enjoy your preview...

Special thanks to Shannon Vandervennet for the amazing second shooting! I had so much fun with you this weekend!