Cinematic Wedding at the Fenton Brewery | Northern Michigan Wedding + Family Photographer
Laura and her husband, Santino, both friends of mine since high school, have consistently supported my journey as a photographer! It has been a joy to witness their relationship blossom over the years. Laura's vision for a nostalgic, cinematic vibe for her engagement session and wedding truly came to life, reflecting the elegance and magic of their love story. The wedding was adorned with timeless details and soft lighting that enhanced the romantic atmosphere. Every moment was filled with emotion, making it a beautifully memorable occasion for all who attended.
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The Venue
The Fenton Winery made for a stunning backdrop the entire night. The team worked quickly and effectively to make the night run smoothly, while seemingly as hands-off as possible. Laura and Santino were given plenty of space to enjoy getting ready and there are back doors that kept Laura hidden from view and for us to sneak back in before the reception.
The Details
When I say this wedding was elegant, I mean it! This was a magazine-ready wedding and every detail down to the rings and wedding dress were perfect.
Getting Ready
I had such a fun time capturing Laura getting ready and using various props to give it a romantic vibe. Both parties were getting ready as the same time, so it was fun to run up and down the stairs checking in on both and seeing if anyone needed any assistance.
First Look
Laura didn’t want to do a first look with her husband Santino. But, she did want to be the one to put the boutonniere on her father. So I suggested a private first look with dad and she loved the idea! It was such a sweet and tender moment to witness.
The Ceremony
Bridal Party
Directly following the ceremony, we snuck the bridal party and immediate family away to take some portraits next to the stunning pond on the Fenton Winery property. Laura has always reminded me of the warm golden sun and spring blooms, so I just knew I had to capture her surrounded by her bouquets! It was fun watching both parties get to unwind with their closest friends and families and relax for some portraits before the reception.
Bride + Groom Portraits
Afterwards, Laura and Santino stayed with me to get even more time alone together. Like I mentioned previously, they wanted cinematic vibes to their photographs. So I really went for a nostalgic, vintage vibe, while still keeping her photographs timeless and a true representation of their love.
The Reception
To go along with the cinematic vibe, I documented the reception in a magazine-ready kind of way. I wanted to capture the elegance of the venue, with a nostalgic flash every now and then, and keep the most hands-off approach for the rest of the night. My favorite part was watching her and Santino sneak away. I had previously seen a shorter wedding dress hanging in the room and just knew she planned on doing a dress change at some point! So I sat by the stairs like their own personal paparazzi, waiting for their grand return.
Searra Liggett is an intimate destination and elopement photographer sharing her love of travel, motherhood, and sustainability based out of Houghton, Michigan. She’s always ready to pack her bags and head out on an adventure. Grabbing some sushi and a good book is the way to her heart. She thrives to serve her clients by making each moment an experience over just some pretty photographs.