One thing that I will always be thankful for is the honor of capturing an entire wedding day from start to finish, no matter how big or small one may be. I’m thankful to all of my couples for choosing me to document everything from the little details, to the first kiss as a married couple, and the intimate and raw moments as newlyweds!!
Wedding Destination – Marquette Michigan
Virginia and Matthew spent their day in the upper peninsula of Michigan in the small town of Marquette. Along the shoreline of Lake Superior, this little town has a rich history that has shaped its character and captivated generations!! From the town’s historic downtown to the stunning cliffs and dense forests, Marquette is truly a hidden gem for any couple to elope!!
The two of them decided to stay in a local lodge that fit their entire wedding party and family for their wedding weekend!! We started their wedding day with a slow morning at their cabin, getting ready, taking in the views of the lake, and enjoying time with their close family and friends. All of their details – dress, invitations, shoes, jewelry, and rings – perfectly fit into the setting of their cabin.
With a slow and relaxed morning, everyone was able to spend time doing the things they loved while getting ready with their favorite people. Matthew and his groomsmen stayed in the attached cabin. It was so much fun to go to their private beach and walk around together & get ready for their first touch!
Instead of doing a first look, Virginia and Matthew decided to do a first touch. This was such a sentimental moment that I didn’t include it in this for everyone to see, but if you are decided to do a first look or first touch, feel free to send me a message for your own wedding HERE!
After, I had so much fun walking around and playing with Virginia and her girls! I could tell that they were all ready for the wedding ceremony, but it was the best way to slow down, take in the moment, and relax before we drove to the local church in town!!
Virginia & Matthew decided to get married at Saint Peter Cathedral, right in the heart of Marquette! This has to be one of the most beautiful Catholic churches in all of the UP! The entire ceremony was spent around the Lord, and it was only to draw Matthew & Virginia that much closer to the next step of their relationship into marriage!! I also had the pleasure of taking newlywed photos of these two in the church’s courtyard that I know they will cherish forever!!
Wedding Reception at Landmark Inn in Downtown Marquette
From the very beginning of wedding planning, Virginia & Matthew had the hope of having a Victorian and beautiful wedding reception. I remember how excited they were that they found Landmark Inn just north of downtown Marquette!! As you step through the doors, you are immediately felt with nostalgia straight from the 19th century. Everything from the wooden floors, original fireplace, and vintage photographs truly encapsulates everything they dreamed of for their day!!
There were so many details put together by Virginia that made their night that much more beautiful: gorgeous tablescape, delicious food, and emotional speeches. So many tears were shed amongst the group, and I could tell how loved these two were by the people who made the trip up to Michigan. This was one of my favorite memories from their day, and I know that they will look back on these photos and remember the exact feeling they had from each second.
The rest of the night, I had the pleasure of documenting the newlyweds in some of the most stunning locations I have ever witnessed!! We started by walking around the town of Marquette to make sure we had time taking in the history and presence of where they got married only a few hours before. Then we made a short drive to a local boat dock where there were many beautiful sailboats and lighthouses in the distance. The entire time we were here, I could tell just how happy and joyful Virginia and Matthew were feeling that it even made me emotional! As the sun began to dip under the trees, we decided to make our way to a local park where we could capture more of the setting of Lake Superior! The feeling of walking through the warm sand, listening to all of the seagulls, and watching the sun glow through the trees was a surreal experience!! Finally, we ended up close to the city along the cliffside rocks where Virginia & Matthew dreamed of seeing the sunset on their wedding day. I am very happy to say those dreams became a reality, and I can’t wait for them to always look back on their entire day, just like a movie.
