Magical Wooded Wedding Clio, MI | Northern Michigan Wedding + Family Photographer
Back in 2023, Dakota + Gary reached out to me in search of a wedding photographer. At the time, they wanted to do an engagement session to practice in front of the camera and just get the vibe of how I would work on a wedding day. Of course I said, ‘Let’s do it!’
Fast forward to their dreamy wedding in their family’s backyard, there was nothing short of enchanting. When I asked them what they wanted me to take away from the night, they wanted me to truly showcase the celebration of their families joining.
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The Details
All of the details, down to the table design, was straight from the Secret Garden! Mushroom vases dotted the tables, and fresh garden flowers filled the bouquets and lined the tables. Dakota picked out the prettiest floral lace fabric to transform into a veil, too! I also love that their puppy, Connor, was included in everyway possible; so, I made sure to incorporate something of him in all the detail pictures like the treats on the traditional ‘details’ photograph.
Groomsmen Getting Ready
The groomsmen were a hoot! They just wanted to relax and have a good time, so I was sure to incorporate that by just freely documenting them getting ready. It wasn’t until I lined them up for a portrait that I gave them a few playful prompt to get them warmed up and ready for the wedding!
Bride’s Portraits
I absolutely adored documenting the bridesmaids getting ready and ‘tending’ to Dakota! It even inspired some photographs I took at the very end. The house was filled with so much love and support for their dear friend and family member.
The First Look
These two wanted a private vow reading where they could tell each other how much they meant to one another, enjoy some personal stories, and some inside jokes. All the while, I quietly walked around documenting their story unfold and this next chapter in their book.
Connor even dressed up for the occasion!
Bridal Party Portraits
The most important elements Dakota wanted in her pictures was laughter, fun, and dancing. So we did just that! While I always have a list of the ‘must-have’ photographs from a wedding day, I incorporated some fun prompts based on the party! There was a lot of laughter involved, which made for wonderful candid images to look back on! My favorite moment from this part of the day, was having the bridal party walk around the couple to capture them in a blur of motion.
The Ceremony
Bride + Groom Portraits
Sneaking away for bride + groom portraits is probably my favorite part of every wedding. Dakota and Gary had just finished their vows, went down the list and got pictures with all immediate family, signed their marriage licenses, and knew it was time to take some space away while everyone else settled in for the reception. I love allowing this time for my couples to relax and enjoy being married, just the two of them (and Connor in our case). Later in the day, I also love to sneak my couples away for a sunset session! Even if there isn’t a stunning sunset, it’s nice to be able to get another breather and my couples are usually relaxed and super comfortable in front of the camera by this point.
Reception
Like I said, Dakota’s biggest request for her photographs was for me to capture the party that would be the reception. I made sure to pay special attention at the dance floor, watch for smiles and laughter under the tent, and to document the love and joy that is their family.
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.