As a photographer in the past few years, I have become a huge fan of Traverse City. It only was up until 3 years ago, I had my first visit to Northern Michigan’s infamous wine country. And it was only up until a few months ago I had my first visit to Old Mission Peninsula where the wedding ceremony of Katie and Mark was held. The scenic drive is amazing as you get to see both bays and at the end of the road is a lighthouse where you can walk around on the beach and take in the beautiful waterscape ahead of you.
Katie and Mark’s wedding was filled with their closest friends and family who traveled afar to attend their celebration. And the day began at St. Joseph Catholic Church where everyone was scurrying to get ready and make sure the chapel was beautifully decorated. One of my favorite things about this wedding was Katie’s gown. It’s very possible that it was one of my favorites of the year. Made with burnt-out silk and immaculately detailed, it gave the dress a lacy vintage look and it looked absolutely chic on Katie. Along with Katie’s down-to-earth personality, she completed her gown with a pair of white cowboy boots. Of course she looked absolutely amazing. Shortly after the ceremony, the bridal party rendezvoused at Bowers Harbor Winery, a darling vineyard that barely overlooked Traverse City’s West Bay. Everyone had a moment to have a couple of glasses of wine and really take in the day, which certainly set the mood for the rest of the evening.
It truly was amazing how sweet and tender Mark really is. I can see how he is such a lovable guy around anyone. I also see why Katie and him are a fantastic pair. Katie’s vivacious personality is fun and kind, which makes her so easy to be around, coupled with Mark’s laid back and mild-mannered personality kind of reminds me a moth to a flame.
The reception was the most sentimental part of the evening. The quaintness of Northport Bay Retreat was an amazing setting for friends and family to be snuggled together with an amazing view of West Bay in the background. So many wonderful things was said to the newly married couple that there wasn’t one dry eye underneath the tent that evening. So much of that hit home for me and I’m so grateful I had a camera in front of my face because I too was an emotional wreck.
Katie and Mark, it was an honor to have been a part of such a beautiful day. You both are a beautiful couple that will accomplish amazing things! Congratulations to you both!!!
