What a difference a few months can make!  Last we met Kristen and Mike, we excitedly discussed their destination while traipsing through the snow.  But the end of May brought sunshine, full lush greens, and perfect day to honor their love.  They chose to share start their forever at The Homestead Resort in Glen Arbor, Michigan; the same place Adam and I spent our first anniversary.  I’d say Northern Michigan has a knack for celebrating beginnings!  We started our morning at Lillyjade: a full salon located in the middle of the Village.

Kristen and her bridal party were receiving the full works by the friendly staff: manicures, pedicures, and make-up.

Gorgeous, natural wedding day make-up: perfectly fitting for Kristen.

Her dress was one of the prettiest I’ve photographed!  A simple, wrapped bodice with just a hint of glamour complimented by a sheer skirt with lovely flowers.

Two pictures of the rings because I was simply {swooning} over her engagement ring and band!

One of Kristen’s bridesmaids also styled everyone’s hair — including the bride’s!

And while we ladies were having an exciting time getting ready,…

…the gentlemen were getting ready on the floor above; taking the least amount of time possible to get dressed and the maximum amount of time to have fun.
Quite appropriate, I’d say! ; )

{cheers!}

While one sweet princess made sure to get into her shoes, another slipped into her wedding gown.

You’re absolutely breath-taking, Kristen!

Kristen and Mike wanted to be with each other before the ceremony; however, they wanted to maintain tradition while doing so.  Executed by blindfolding Mike with extra coral fabric, a First Look*No Look was arranged a little while before the ceremony.  Kristen and Mike could hold and talk to each other, prayer together, and spend a few moments alone to revel in this momentous time.

I squeal every time I see their excitement!  Kristen is bursting with joy, and Mike – even blindfolded – is beaming!

{moments to remember}

The ceremony and reception took place at Camp Firefly: a favorite for weddings with their unique ceremony set-up.

Incredibly beautiful, right?  I fell in love with the landscape, the pond, the intimacy of the space.

An ecstatic face every bride dreams to see!

{married!}

I love the different unity traditions that emerge during ceremonies.  This wrapping of their hands is beautiful, unique, and memorable.

I tend to sneak around as the bride and groom share their first moments alone as husband and wife.  Oh, I adore these!

While family and the bridal party snuck away for a few pictures, guests were greeted by a destination-themed reception hall.

Pez cake-toppers!  Mike had desperately wanted these and Kristen was making sure to keep these a surprise until the cake-cutting moment — more of that later! ; )

— caught this moment in between gathering family members for pictures; oh, beautiful love —

We only had a few minutes for Kristen and Mike to sneak away for pictures, but Camp Firefly’s landscape allowed for diverse and gorgeous portraits.

…falling to pieces<3

But then…let’s bustle the dress, kick off our shoes, and let’s party!

Mike’s reaction to his surprise cake-toppers!

Intimate First Dances.

<3

Adam and I are so thankful you invited us to share in your lovely wedding day!  What a beautiful location, gorgeous details, and most importantly, a couple so absolutely in love.
Kristen and Mike, we wish you a marriage to match your wedding!  Congratulations, Mr. & Mrs.!     -xo, the Burnetts.