While I was back on the island over New Years I was excited to see that not one but TWO of my upcoming 2012 couples were adventurous enough to do an island visit in the middle of winter.  While they were there we took advantage and organized engagement shoots... 

Although it was chilly... it was so fun and an unique experience for all of us.  I don't have the opportunity to do photo shoots in the snow very often!!  Plus I love being able to share this magical island in the winter. It is such a beautiful and serene place this time of year that most of my couples never get the chance to see.

It's not very often that I get the chance to leave the island and experience a mainland Northern Michigan wedding...  I was stoked to photograph Katie and Eric's wedding at the Boyne Country Club.  

Katie and Eric have had quite a busy year... when we first met (via phone) they were living in Chicago then as the year went on they moved to Denver. So not only did they plan an amazing wedding but they moved across the country.  Their wedding was so personal. You can tell these two love the outdoors and nature yet have a sense of class and elegance.  Their wedding was a perfect mix.. kind of like Chicago meets Denver with a Northern Michigan twist.

So this is what I knew about these two going in:  they love hiking, climbing, all things outdoorsy and cool...  the ties with their family and friends are strong and touching (as with each speech reactions ranged from hearty laughs to teary eyes) ... that this wedding was going to be incredibly personal and full of fun meaningful details (from the hand made arch, to the mini trees)... every little detail of this wedding was purposeful and heartfelt.  What I was not expecting was the crazy dance party that ensued... Katie and Eric can GET DOWN!!  They were rockstars on that dance floor!!  It took everything I had not to join in myself... (okay.. so maybe I did a little dance move or two in the corner... shhhh)!

Katie & Eric,  It was so much fun to be a part of your day!  You two truly know how to have fun and enjoy each other.  Your personalities blend so well together I can see how you can support and push each other as you climb mountains!    May you two continue to climb every mountain and explore the world with the same joy and groove as your beautiful day!!

Love,
A

I've only got a quick second but I wanted to post this sneak peak of Katie and Tom's wedding. 

I met with this adorable couple last year and totally clicked with them and their families...  amazing people through and through... in fact one reason I have to run is because their parents have returned to the island and I'm off to meet them at an art show...

I will definitely be writing more about this wedding and all their special additions when I post their slideshow in a little while... but for now...  hopefully the pics speak for themselves... in how cute and fun and simply adorable these two are.

(plus a side note they are the same couple I did an engagement shoot with in Chicago back in October)

Katie & Tom...  I must admit I was a little sad when your wedding was over ... but at least I know anytime I'm back in Chicago we can meet up at POPS...  ;-)  . . but no "grandma" this time :-)

Love
A

It can't be the summer already... can it really... I swear just yesterday was my last weekend on the island for the season and I was getting a call from Gordon and an email from Michael...  both with the same date.. both from NY...  both ... marrying Anissa... now this is just strange...  okay, ... two names,... I guess I can relate.

Must admit the weather was about the same as it was in October so it really could have been yesterday...  but even though rain was all day for the forecast... and a chilly 56 degrees (when they needed 57.5 for the string quartet)... we met the day before and I whole-heartedly convinced them not to worry about the weather (which seems to be a common theme so far this year... and yet... just look what happened... beautiful sun came out just in time for everything!!

It was so much fun to have Anissa and Michael for my first island wedding of the season...  we had a blast, playing croquet ...  one of the best parts was the surprise for Anissa & Michael.  The moms had a special surprise guest... "Straight No Chaser" and incredible men's a capella group from Indiana University.

Anissa & Michael.. congratulations on your wonderful wedding. It was so much fun to be a part of your day.  You are two incredible people who are truly beautiful inside and out and obviously inspire those around you to be better people as well.  May you continue to love and surprise each other more and more every year!

Love,
A

I've been back from Florida for less then a day and was so excited about this wedding I wanted to get some pics up as soon as I could.

The past few days have been unbelievable.  I couldn't think of a better way to kick off 2011 wedding season.  There are so many things I want to say about Loni and TJ and their wedding.  I don't even know where to begin.  

 As I sat and listened to the many heartfelt speeches during the dinner, it was clear to see that Loni & TJ have individually touched the hearts of so many.  Here were two people whose paths in life had been parallel for years...  separately inspiring those who crossed their paths.. but now finally their paths have joined to become one.  I have no doubt that together these two will continue in an even stronger way... to inspire and encourage each other and those around them.

And did I mention, for every heart touching moment... there was comic relief.. I'm surprised that the laughter echoing from the house didn't break any noise violations. But this too is an example of how Loni and TJ live life ...  to the fullest!!     





Loni & TJ, You two are truly incredible.  Your zest for life is contagious and an inspiration. I feel so lucky to have been a part of everything.  May your lives grow better and better with everyday.  I so look forward to keeping in touch!

Love,
A

Oh.. and to every body else... did I mention that one of the biggest laughs came as TJ was getting his hair done... oh yes... TJ officially is the first groom I've had with his own hair dresser...  and boy did his buddies tease him ... (you knew I had to call you out buddy).  I should mention that TJ and I are old college friends... so I'm allowed to make fun of him :-)