Last weekend, we officially wrapped up our last wedding (that we have scheduled at least!), and I am shocked/ecstatic/so.so.so blessed for all the beautiful weather we’ve had this summer!  Only a handful of weddings had a few drops of rain, and even those were handled well, with understanding, and sweet responsiveness.  Joe and Michella were one of these sweet, sweet couples.  The raindrops were held at bay (err, lake?) during their Michigan lakeside wedding, then came showering down during the cocktail & dinner hours, and finally letting up for family pictures at the reception site.  But, oh, THE LOVE!  And for the record…one of the best aisle reactions I’ve ever witnessed!  Absolutely stunning!  I simply have to get started on these two…

One of the benefits of being a husband & wife team is the ability to be in two places at once.  While Adam was photographing Joe getting ready at his home, I was with the ladies at their hotel in Stevensville, Michigan.  Can I simply say I adored the intricate details of Michella’s wedding day wardrobe?  Her flowered gown, her rhinestone veil,…and dazzling Toms!

…a shoe dazzle that surely means much more to Michella. ; )

Oh, my brides & their gorgeous locks of hair.  ADORE, ADORE!

You are STUNNING!  The bluest of eyes, radiant smile…

— and finally a bride.

A handsome man so very eager to see his bride!

Joe and Michella chose a bright orange and pink theme for their Rocky Gap Beach wedding along the shores of Lake Michigan in St. Joseph.

Their bright theme accented the breezy blue waves and overcast skies.<3

While I encourage a First Look for multiple reasons, I always support my brides & grooms who want a tradition first look at the alter.  And might I say, Joe’s reaction (as well as his mother’s reaction!) did not disappoint!  He is speechless…and rightfully so with such a beautiful woman about to be his bride.<3

*squee, squeeeee!

You two are perfect for each other.  Truly.

Mr. & Mrs.!  Congratulations!

Immediately after their receiving line, the raindrops started to come down slowly, then more quickly.  We decided on a few quick snapshots of the entire bridal party and then focused a bit more time on the newlyweds before the rain started a bit more heavily.

–> look at those waves!

An evident contentedness that even rain couldn’t dampen.  Love love, love my couples & love their love.  SO MUCH LOVE!

While the bridal party drove around town in their Hummer limo, Adam and I drove to the reception site at Lake Michigan Hills Golf Club to photograph a few details.

Michella’s family made this fun photo-scene for their guests.  A beautiful build and a great chance for them to capture fun candids!

Definitely sweet mixed with a little play. ; )

Once the rain had let up, we headed out to the green to photograph family pictures and had just enough time for a few of Joe and Michella too.

I always look forward to First Dances (all four of them this time!); its one of the first moments they’re alone, to quietly talk and be simply together.

And to truly get the party going, they had some searchin’ and tossin’ going on!

Who doesn’t love a packed dance floor?!  Lake Michigan Hills offers a huge dance floor, and I’m so happy Joe and Michella’s guests took advantage of it…and bringing a Star Wars mask?  Top notch idea.  Hats off to you, Sir.

What a day, what a night.
You are beautiful.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!  You two were such a blessing to work with from the very beginning.  The planning, the engagement session, our little coffee shop date, and finally your wedding day: we’re so happy to have been with you since the beginning of this amazing journey.
And we’re thrilled for both of you as you begin your family and build your life together.<3  Good wishes & blessings sent your way!  Mwah!
xo, the Burnetts.