Bridget & Jack’s Hotel Walloon Lake Wedding Photography took place on a radiant, sunny day in Northern Michigan. The couple held an intimate lakeside ceremony and reception on a Friday with their closest friends and family. We see more and more couples getting married on Fridays and think it’s a great idea!
Bridget began the day with her bridesmaids at Hotel Walloon, if you have never been you’re missing out! This three-story, boutique hotel was opened in May of 2015 and offers so many stunning design features that you must see in-person to truly appreciate.
While the girls finished up their hair and makeup I gathered all of the beautiful details to be photographed. I carefully laid out the invitation suite with additional elements like the rings and boutonnière. Photographing beautiful details like these help tell the entire story of the day. Bridget even brought an intricate hanger for her bridal gown to hang on. Sweetwater Floral created stunning bouquets and boutonnieres in breathtaking hues of peach, cream, yellow, coral, and soft blues, & purples. The bridesmaids gowns thoughtfully echoed similar colors and a mixture of textures.
Bridget slipped into her beautiful gown by Berta at Renee Austin Wedding, and did a special first look with her bridesmaids. I always really enjoy doing this, we get some really beautiful and emotional photographs of the bride and her friends! I then took portraits of the bride that highlighted all of her carefully selected bridal details.
Jack and his groomsmen were in good spirits for the day ahead! His best man made light-hearted jokes and remarks that kept the room filled with laughter. Once ready, the group moved outside to get some portraits under the beautiful trees at a park in Walloon Village.
The guests arrived and were directed to a ceremony setup along the shore of Walloon Lake. The ceremony had a charming, natural appeal that highlighted the location. Bridget was escorted down the grassy aisle by her father where Jack was waiting at the end to take her hand. Everyone took their seats to watch Bridget and Jack exchange their vows and rings. The first kiss was in front of a lovely floral piece with the glistening sun reflecting off of Walloon Lake as their back drop.
Carrying the natural theme of the day into the portraits, we walked over to a stunning willow tree on the property. The light dancing through the wispy branches added a beautiful glow to those standing under it. Bridget & Jack then made their way over to the waterfront where we took portraits next to the lake. The sunshine added a golden glow to the already glowing newly weds. The two love Northern Michigan for how beautiful and peaceful it is. I feel that we were really able to capture that spirit in the photographs!
Guests were enjoying cocktails and appetizers in the open reception concept and designed by the incomparable Ann Travis Events. I photographed the reception with the aim of capturing the timeless beauty and details that had been thoughtfully selected.
Jack and Bridget were welcomed into their reception as husband and wife to enjoy the best man and maid of honor speeches. Following the speeches and a little mingling, the couple took a relaxing stroll down to the water. I always get portraits of the newly weds during the reception and sunset. It is a great chance for the couple to get a few private moments together and soak in the day. Sunset portraits allow me to capture relaxed and intimate images, as they did for Bridget and Jack!
Everyone enjoyed a delicious dinner and dessert by Wineguys Catering. The newly weds stepped out under the romantic glow of the party lights & greenery. They shared an enchanting first dance together surrounded by all their guests. After the special dances, the dance floor opened up to the entire crowd. This charming, summer wedding was filled with joy and laughter by all those who attended. I am so happy I was able to capture these long lasting memories for Bridget and Jack!
Hotel Walloon Lake Wedding Photography: Cory Weber