A Barefoot Beach Dream Come True

Amanda and Lucas tied the knot over Labor Day weekend of 2024, celebrating their love with a perfectly planned beachside ceremony in Bay Harbor, Michigan! As an experienced event planner herself, Amanda had a clear vision: a wedding that felt casual yet classy, with an emphasis on meaningful moments, gorgeous scenery, and effortless style. And thanks to a team of trusted vendors—and a little last-minute weather luck—it all came together beautifully!!

Set at the charming Village Suites at Bay Harbor, Amanda and Lucas’s celebration struck the perfect balance between timeless elegance and laid-back charm. Their black and white color palette added a classic, clean aesthetic to the outdoor setting, while barefoot vows on the beach kept things relaxed and deeply personal. Though the forecast looked grim leading up to the big day, the skies cleared just in time, giving the couple a truly stunning backdrop for their ceremony.

“I’ve always wanted to get married on the beach,” Amanda shared. “And it happened! It was amazing.”

-Bride Amanda

With over six years of event planning experience, Amanda took the lead in designing her own wedding—something she had dreamed of doing for years. And while she was completely hands-on with the planning, she credits her support system and incredible day-of coordinator for making the day feel stress-free!

“I’m an anxious worrier, but I surrounded myself with supportive people and trusted my team. The morning of the wedding was actually so much fun—and surprisingly relaxing!”

-Amanda

The Dress & The Dream Fit:
Amanda found her dress at The Dress Shop, and it was love at third sight. “It was the third dress I tried on, and I had my eye on it since the moment I walked into the shop.” The stretchy, ruched material offered both comfort and style, giving her the fitted, confident look she wanted with the freedom to move and enjoy the day.

As for alterations? Amanda had no worries. “I knew I’d be in great hands with Sarah,” she said. “My biggest concern was the bustle—but Sarah made it SO easy for my maid of honor to handle. It looked flawless and stayed perfect all night!” Brides- A bustle is a MUST in my opinion!!! It is a simple system we sew into your dress allowing us to button or hook up the train of your dress so that you can walk and dance with ease as the wedding day goes on!! See below how Amanda’s MOH connected her bustle and made it possible for Amanda to walk around town and dance the night away!!

Ready to book alterations with Sarah Kolis? Do so here!

A Vintage Moment:

We CANNOT move on from the dress without mention of the other dress! For Amanda’s rehearsal dinner, she dreamed of wearing her mom’s 1991 wedding dress. So of course, she went through the vintage redesign process and we created a beautiful new dress!! Just look how PERFECT it turned out!! What a special way to honor the past and make your wedding unique to your family!!

Want to learn more about Vintage Redesigns? Click here!

A Moment to Remember:
Amanda’s favorite part of the day? “Marrying the love of my life with all the people who care about us the most in one place.” That, and seeing Lucas for the first time during their emotional first look.

“I was just so excited to see him and be wrapped up in his arms,” Amanda said. “He told me it (the dress) was perfect… just like me.” -Amanda

Awwww!!!!!

Advice from the Bride Herself:
Amanda’s biggest tip for future brides? “Enjoy the day and trust your vendors. As long as you’ve communicated your vision, let go of the tiny imperfections—they’re usually only noticeable to you. Focus on being present. You only get to live this day once!”

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Vendors Who Made the Magic Happen:

• Venue: Village Suites at Bay Harbor
• Photography: Dave & Ang Photo
• Coordination: 21Jane Events
• Florals: Flowers by Sky’s the Limit
• Dress: The Dress Shop

Amanda’s wedding was a perfect example of what happens when classic style, heartfelt intention, and the right team come together. We’re so grateful to have been part of her journey and wish her and Lucas a lifetime of love, laughter, and barefoot beach days!!!

-Sarah Kolis & Team

P.S. (from Sarah): Amanda and I’s relationship actually goes wayyyy back meeting on the Novi High School Cheerleading team in 2008! Wow time flies! It has always been such an honor to have the Downs family in my life across many different phases and big life moments. What a dream to help Amanda with her wedding dress and transforming mom’s gown too!!! Thank you all, sending love to the Downs family!!! So glad this special day turned out so beautifully!