The Journal
Welcome to the blog where we post all the things.
session stories ● guides & information ● Michigan travel tips ● our own adventures ● + other things… 
Sunrise, Sunset + Northern Lights: Alex & Kate’s Upper Peninsula Elopement
Kate and Alex knew they wanted something unforgettable for their elopement, and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula delivered. Their adventure spanned two days—Thursday was all about exploring, from a sunrise first look at Marquette’s retired ore dock to hiking waterfalls, summiting Sugarloaf Mountain, and catching sunset on Miner’s Beach. Just when the day couldn’t get any more magical, the northern lights put on an incredible show over Au Train Beach. It was the perfect mix of adventure, intimacy, and pure UP magic. See all the highlights from their breathtaking elopement!
Luke + Jasmine | Sunrise Elopement in Marquette, MI
Luke and Jasmine’s Marquette elopement was like stepping into a dream, from the first golden rays of sunrise to a morning filled with adventure and love. Their story began with a heartfelt first look at the Old Ore Dock, followed by a private exchange of vows aboard their boat in the marina. We wandered through McCarty’s Cove and highlighted the Marquette Lighthouse, capturing the day’s beauty amidst towering pines and calm waters. A stop at Harlow Lake brought out the wilderness and adventure of Michigan’s upper peninsula before they said “I do” on a stunning Lake Superior beach at Little Presque Isle Park. Every moment sparkled with magic and their undeniable connection.
Chuck + Shelby | Proposal in the Secret Garden
When Chuck called with his plans to propose to Shelby, he already had all his plans ready to go. Despite a surprise storm, he convinced Shelby to visit the garden before dinner, and with the rain we ended up having the place all to ourselves for a perfect moment.
Matt + Jessica | Upper Peninsula Wedding
Matt + Jessica’s upper peninsula backyard wedding was straight from a fairtytale, but it wasn’t just the sunflowers and sunset that made it beautiful. From their love for each other to the love from their guests celebrating, it was pure perfection.
Paula & Randall | Harbor Springs Christmas Tree Elopement
Paula & Randall travelled north to have the most dreamy Christmas elopement. Choosing to exchange their vows at the majestic Downtown Harbor Springs Christmas Tree and celebrating with a hot drink and s’mores at the Boyne Highlands Enchanted Trail.
Tyler + Jess | Sky Bridge Michigan Proposal
Autumn, love stories and beautiful views on the Michigan Sky Bridge at Boyne Mountain made an epic evening for Tyler’s proposal to Jess. Rain kept the crowds away, hot cocoa warmed us up, and their love for each other kept us shooting ‘til dark.
Dan & Dawns Romantic 5-year Vow Renewal | Little Stone Church on Mackinac Island
Dan and Dawn celebrated their 5th anniversary with a vow renewal at the charming Little Stone Church on Mackinac Island - embracing the tradition of exchanging their vows in a new destination every five years, they made the first unforgettable.
Starting with renewing their vows at the Little Stone Church, followed by a private taxi ride to the Grand Hotel where we created stunning portraits in the secret garden and the famous Grand Hotel front porch, capturing the two of them in timeless and elegant frames.
To end their perfect day, Dan and Dawn took a carriage to The Wood Restaurant, a hidden gem tucked away in the interior of the island.
Mackinac Island’s relaxed pace, breathtaking scenery and romantic vibes make for an ideal destination to celebrate your love story - from proposals and elopements to weddings and vow renewals. If you’re dreaming of a magical celebration, let’s capture your love story in unforgettable ways.