I couldn’t wait for Hillary & Jonathan’s Shanahan’s Barn Wedding Photography in Charlevoix, Michigan. It was on a gorgeous Friday in September! We stopped in four different Northern Michigan cities throughout the fun-filled day. This was the ultimate Northern Michigan wedding adventure!

The bride and bridesmaids started the day by getting ready in Bay Harbor, Michigan. With excitement for the day to begin, I gathered all the beautiful details to photograph including a cute custom-made Northern Michigan guide created by the bride and groom for guests to enjoy. After the bridesmaids slipped into their champagne and pink-colored gowns it was time for Hillary to get into her wedding dress. It was clear to see that the strong friendship these girls had and how thrilled they were to be a part of this special day! With a little time to spare, we went down to the harbor to capture some images in Bay Harbor before heading to Harbor Springs!

Hillary and Jonathan had a classic catholic ceremony at Holy Childhood of Jesus Catholic Church in the heart of downtown Harbor Springs. After the vows were read and the first kiss was sealed we headed outside for portraits on the church grounds. During the summer there are the most stunning hydrangeas that surround the building and make a great backdrop. Before leaving Harbor Springs we made our way up the hill to grab a photo overlooking the entire town of Harbor Springs. If you haven’t been up there to soak in the view I highly recommend it!

While on our way to Charlevoix we took a pitstop in Petoskey, Michigan to capture some portraits by Little Traverse Bay. I don’t think I have ever seen the lake so calm! The navy blue suits and pastel tones of the bridesmaid’s dresses looked so lovely along the lakeshore. With portraits finished everyone was excited to get to Shanahan’s Barn and join the cocktail hour!

Walking into the barn I was impressed by the lovely draping throughout. It really added a stunning touch to the entire venue along with all the other thought-out details. The navy blue theme carried through in the menus, napkins, and table numbers. There was also a very impressive dessert bar by Simply Sweet by Jessica that had any delicious sweet treat you could think of!

After all the guests took their seats the thoughtful speeches began followed by a delicious meal. At golden hour, a favorite part of the day for portraits, I snuck away with Hillary and Jonathan outside of the barn. The sun was just about to hit the horizon as we walked around the natural settings surrounding this Northern Michigan venue! As we walked back into the barn everyone was awaiting the first dances and ready for the party to begin! You could see all the fun their guests had exploring the beautiful cities of Northern Michigan, a place that Hillary and Jonathan hold dear in their hearts!

If you’re planning a wedding get in touch with us here, we would love to be a part of your big day!