Every love story is unique, but some are truly extraordinary. Enter, Anna and Nick. In the heart of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, on a picturesque summer day, the couple embarked on an adventure that would culminate in a wedding weekend filled with personal touches, breathtaking scenery, and a celebration of love that will be cherished forever. Bride Anna gave us ALL the details about her stunning wedding, and my hope is that this #RealBride story inspires you as you plan or dream of the perfect wedding!! This is the story of Anna’s unforgettable wedding experience, set against the stunning backdrop of Marquette, where classic elegance met adventure and spontaneity.

The Big Day

On July 30, 2022, the stage was set for a wedding day that would leave a lasting impression. The couple chose the Holiday Inn in Marquette as their venue, where they were blessed with a flawless Upper Peninsula summer day. The weather, a delightful 75 degrees with abundant sunshine and a gentle breeze, provided the ideal setting for their dream outdoor ceremony. Anna and Nick shared a non-traditional “first look” at sunrise, against the breathtaking backdrop of Dead River Falls.

“Throughout our relationship some of our favorite times were spent on what we called “Sundates”, frequently included breakfast out and waterfall hikes. It was the absolute BEST way to start our wedding day, just the two of us. The only people who knew we did this this were my maid of honor and our photography team.” (Anna).

When asked to describe his bride, groom Nick answered “Her dress was perfect and I can’t imagine her wearing anything else. She was absolutely beautiful.”

The Ceremony
The ceremony was beautiful! The bride’s brother officiated with a personalized touch that reflected the couple’s unique relationship and shared values. During the ceremony the bride and groom exchanged heartfelt vows they had written themselves, making the promises they made to each other all the more meaningful. Anna shared about their unique “ring warming ceremony” where their weddings rings were passed among their families to bless and honor while Anna and Nick spent that time writing down exactly how we were feeling in that moment/on our wedding day. So special!

As the day continued to unfold, the celebration continued with dinner and a non-traditional dessert option- pies and cheesecakes. Yum! Surrounded by their closest family and friends, the bride and groom danced the night away!

A New Adventure Begins

I’m not sure about you, but I certainly did not hike 10 miles the day after my wedding. But to Anna and Nick, of course they would plan a hike! Following the wedding, the adventure continued as the couple embarked on a 10-mile hike, carrying the bride’s gown and the groom’s change of clothes to capture stunning bridal portraits against the backdrop of Munising Falls and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The pictures speak for themselves, check them out below!

“It was an unforgettable experience and the photos are incredible. Very much a reflection of our zest for life and adventure, we’ll cherish those photos and memories forever.” (Anna).

All about the Dress

Central to this remarkable wedding was the bride’s dress—a gown that captured her essence and radiated elegance. After visiting various bridal shops, the bride found her dream dress at Ivory Loft in Fenton. The experience of working with Beth, the shop’s owner, was unparalleled, and the bride’s journey to finding “the one” was filled with a sense of clarity and excitement.

Though the dress was a vision, alterations were necessary to make it truly perfect for the bride. This is when Anna and Sarah met at her gown fitting, and Sarah worked her magic to alter the dress perfectly for Anna. Alteration included: reshaping the back neckline, adding cups, adjusting the straps, hem multiple layers, and make precise adjustments to ensure a flawless fit. The bride’s apprehensions were replaced with awe and admiration when she saw the transformation—her dress looked brand new and fit like a glove.

I am SO grateful to bride Anna for sharing her wedding story, well, adventure rather! Anna also recently shared with me that their son, Lincoln, was born just 3 weeks ago, on their first anniversary! It would seem that the adventures continue for Anna and Nick. Best wishes to you 3!!

Vendors:

Dress: Ivory Loft

Alterations: Sarah Kolis

Photography: TruVision Studios

Flowers: Samara Floral Co

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