Chris and Stephanie had an absolutely beautiful and intimate wedding ceremony in Houghton Lake, Mi this last April. This wedding is especially close to my heart. I first met Stephanie when we were in kindegarten, but it took us a couple years to become friends. Once we hit third grade, a friendship formed, and by fourth grade we were BFFs along with our friend BriAnna. Skip ahead twenty or so years and Stephanie meets Chris, her other half. They are SO great together and I just love watching them be a team and do life together. I still remember when they got engaged, and BriAnna came over to talk about it, and she caught me just SOBBING on my couch. It is so amazing seeing someone you’ve known and loved for so long having everything come together. I honestly couldn’t be happier for them. I love that she did her wedding HER way, even if other people didn’t like it. That is how all weddings should be! It’s about the bride and the groom, and you can do your day however you’d like.

Chris and Stephanie (literally) tied the knot at her grandparents house on Houghton Lake where she spent so many of her childhood days running around and playing. It was the perfect backdrop for the wedding of their dreams. Their baby, Phoenix, crawled around during the ceremony, playing with rose petals and sitting on his mom’s dress. It was laid back, personal, and absolutely perfect. BriAnna officiated it (her first wedding, and she did amazing!) while close family (and their dog) watched. I even got to be a witness and sign the marriage license for the first time!

A couple of fun facts about this wedding. 1. Stephanie wore her mom’s veil for the day, and had a seat set aside for her photo since she passed away when we were young. It was such a beautiful touch! And 2. after they said I do and shared a kiss, they played “Forever” by Chris Brown (a la The Office) and danced around with their wedding guests. It was such a fun way to celebrate!

Big thanks to Michelle at Bliss Salon in Gaylord, Mi for the hair and makeup! The dress was found at To Have and To Hold in Traverse City, Mi.