nearlywed summer 2025

MarriedEAT, DRINK, & BE

SERVICING WEST, SOUTHWEST, & CENTRAL MICHIGAN

With over 30 years of experience as the premier caterer in West, Southwest, & Central Michigan, Distinctive Catering & Bar Services is here to help you create a spectacular event! Distinctive Bar Services can be used in conjunction with our top-notch catering services, or as a standalone service. Our fully customizable bar packages are all-inclusive and are designed to appease all of your guests at an affordable price.

Our menu is fully customizable to suit each and every type of event. With our transparent pricing structure and vast array of options, we are able to cater to all types of budgets, no matter how big or small. Our serving staff and bartending staff are fully licensed and are highly passionate about making your event a great success. In addition, our event coordinators have over 20 years of industry experience and will walk you through the planning process from start to finish. We understand that planning a wedding is a once-ina-lifetime task, and we are more than willing to help as much or as little as you'd like during the entire process!

january 16, 2026 / 5-9pm grand rapids public museum

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letter publisher from the

There’s something truly magical about getting married in Michigan. From our pristine lakeshores to charming small towns, vibrant cityscapes, and Up North escapes, Michigan offers a stunning backdrop for one of life’s most important celebrations.

In this issue of nearlywed , we invite you to explore all the ways you can make your wedding day unforgettable. We’re excited to share new local gems, talented new vendors, two gorgeous fashion shoots (long and short dresses? Yes, please!), and much more inspiration to help you create your perfect day.

Our favorite part of every issue is the real Michigan weddings featuring couples who have infused their weddings with local charm and personality. Their celebrations showcase the beauty of our state, and we hope they inspire you to create a day that reflects your love story in the most magical way possible. We are mindful of including a list of all participating vendors, so you can find the professionals who can bring your vision to life.

As you plan your wedding, we’ve included all the practical tools you need to stay organized, including our wedding checklist, budget planner, essential tips for obtaining your marriage license, and making name changes after your big day. But nothing is more important in the planning process than finding the perfect vendor team.

Toward the back of the magazine, you’ll find our exclusive vendor directory, filled with detailed information about Michigan’s top wedding professionals. Each listing includes helpful descriptions, photos, and contact information, so you can easily connect with the right vendors for your celebration. These are vendors we know and love, and we wholeheartedly recommend them as Michigan’s leading wedding planning resource.

And don’t worry, we see you online! So, for even more wedding inspiration and resources, we encourage

you to visit our website at nearlywed.com . There, you’ll find a more robust online vendor directory, along with blog posts covering the latest wedding trends, planning tips, and hundreds of real Michigan weddings for hours of inspiration. And don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and Pinterest to stay up to date with the latest trends, celebrity nuptials, valuable tips, and endless wedding inspiration!

Lastly, thank you for trusting nearlywed to be part of your journey. We’re honored to be with you every step of the way as you plan a wedding that reflects the beauty and love of both you and our great state.

Happy wedding planning!

Kelly Stroburg Publisher

olive branch

S T U D I 0 S

Your wedding flowers are more than just a bouquet they hold memories of one of the most important days of your life.

At Olive Branch Studios, we specialize in turning those florals into a stunning, museumquality piece of art that will preserve their beauty forever.

nearlywed digital we are your digital planning resource!

With nearlywed, the magazine is just the beginning of your wedding planning journey. Make sure to visit us online at nearlywed.com for even more inspiration, advice, planning resources, and an online directory of Michigan’s premier wedding vendors.

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2025 covers

SUMMER 2025

Photography Abby Rosenbaum

Styling Rebecca Voigt

Hair Shannon Bishop

Makeup Aubrey Emerson

Model Maya Riddle

WINTER 2025

Photography Michelle Cuppy

Styling Rebecca Voigt

Hair Shannon Bishop

Makeup Ashlyn Sinishtaj

Model Isabella Paul

Floral Styling Malorie Evens

Hana Abboud Ardell dress and sleeves. Ariel Taub Cassidy birdcage veil. Oscar de la Renta chain necklace. Anuja Tolia snake earrings. Elisa Johnson Lyric Leigh sunglasses.

Pilar Aleece June gown. Chosen by KYHA Balmat floral sheath veil.

LET’S GET GLOWING

Every bride deserves to radiate confidence on her wedding day, and our expert bridal skincare solutions are here to help you achieve that perfect glow. With personalized care from experienced skincare specialists, we address your unique skin concerns through tailored treatments. Our stepby-step approach ensures your skin looks flawless and camera-ready, giving you the confidence to shine on your special day. Contact us to schedule your skincare consultation today!

features

50 ethereal gowns

62 artistic cookies

68 party dresses

76 featured wedding

This page, from top: Maya & Nicky, photo by Jaymi Joy Photo; Artisan Buttercream cake, photo by Julie Page. Amangiri photo courtesy of Aman Resorts. Sareh Nouri Elsie 3D floral lace scoop neck gown with chapel train, starting at $6,990, at The Wedding Shoppe, Berkley; 248.541.1988; theweddingshoppe.net.

Photo by Michelle Cuppy. Previous page: Alexis Zalik romper, $465, and Mignonne Gavigan Rubi earrings in pink multi, $295, at Leigh’s, Grand Rapids; 616.942.6300; leighsfashions.com. Hana Abboud Odette sleeves, $150, at Hana Abboud, Dearborn; 313.900.1783; hanaabboud.com.

Photo by Abby Rosenbaum.

letter editor from the

There is no day in our lives that we prepare for with such tender anticipation as a wedding day. Beyond the carefully selected flowers, the meticulously chosen menu, or the perfect dress, lies something far more profound — the moment when we publicly declare that we have chosen to love another person completely.

What makes a wedding so deeply moving is not its perfection, but its authenticity. It’s the trembling hands exchanging rings, the voice that cracks during vows, the unguarded joy that cannot be choreographed. These genuine moments remind us that beneath the beautiful styling and thoughtful details lies what matters most — two people brave enough to promise each other forever.

In this issue, we celebrate both the artistry of wedding design and the depth of human connection that gives it meaning. As you turn these pages, you’ll find endless inspiration for creating a beautiful celebration. For ethereal gowns that turn bridal fantasy into reality, turn to “Dream World” (page 50), or keep the party going all night long in one of the chic bridal cocktail dresses in “Apres Soiree” (page 68). Beyond fashion, designing your perfect day is all about the details, like the truly beautiful custom cookies created for “Sugar Rush” (page 62), Banter & Charm’s gorgeous wedding stationery (page 40), and Artisan Buttercream’s stunning wedding cakes (page 38).

But it’s the stories — and people — behind the details that truly give a wedding meaning. In “Modern Trousseau” (page 30), we talk to designer Sarah Kolis about creating a wedding wardrobe for a client close to her heart — her sister. And in “A Dream Come True” (page 78), we get an inside look at one couple’s stunning celebration overlooking the border between the two countries they call home.

It’s stories like these that remind us that a wedding is more than a single perfect day. It’s both an ending and a beginning — the culmination of one journey and the first step of a new one. It deserves to be honored not just for its beauty, but for its significance in the grand story of our lives.

Cheers to your journey, Editor

Located in Downtown Grand Rapids, our facility was custom-designed and renovated by local architects. Facility rental includes ample free parking on-site with unique, separate areas for ceremonies & receptions.

contributors

Michelle Cuppy is a wife, mother, and fashion photographer based in Los Angeles and Grand Rapids. Beyond the world of fashion, Michelle has earned recognition for her editorial photography, which seamlessly blends storytelling with imagination. Her love of art and nature is infused into her work and made evident in her innovative use of color and light to transport the viewer into her world. Beyond the world of photography, she also loves traveling, reading, and spending every possible minute being outdoors.

Mickey Lyons is a Detroit-based lifestyle, travel and food writer. Her work has appeared in publications including NBC News , Lonely Planet and Eating Well. She has a monthly column in Hour Detroit, where she writes about food and beverage. She lives in Hamtramck with her golden retriever, Mack.

Abby Rosenbaum’s knack for artfully capturing candid and emotional moments has made her one of Michigan’s most sought-after wedding photographers. In 2020, Abby established StudioStudio in Ann Arbor, a creative space for rent, and continues to build that community while accepting wedding commissions and other client work. When not shooting, Abby enjoys time with her young kids, watching bad reality TV, and is a clean beauty and slow fashion enthusiast.

Shalee Super , known online as Shalee Wanders, is a Michigan-born travel writer and blogger whose passion for adventure has taken her to more than 50 countries. Her work has been featured on Pure Michigan and in numerous publications, including Travel + Leisure, USA Today, nearlywed , and more. 2025,

PUBLISHER AND SALES DIRECTOR

Kelly Stroburg

EDITOR

Rebecca Voigt

GRAPHIC DESIGN

032 Outsourcing

COPY EDITOR

John S. Schultz

CONTRIBUTORS

Michelle Cuppy, Angela Flynn, Mickey Lyons, Kerri Molitor, Blake Miller, Giuseppa Nadrowski, Julie Page, Abby Rosenbaum and Shalee Super

DIGITAL DIRECTOR

Shalee Super

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Haley Bieniewicz

DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Kelly Stroburg

DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT AND SALES

Michelle Farino

DISTRIBUTION Advantage Circulation Consulting, LLC.

ADVERTISING INFORMATION

616.334.4065 | kelly@nearlywed.com

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS editorial@nearlywed.com

REAL WEDDING AND STYLED SHOOT SUBMISSIONS nearlywed.com

Nearlywed is published by GRB Ventures Publications P.O. Box 957 Ada, Michigan 49301

616.334.4065 info@nearlywed.com

Julie Page , owner of Collab Creative, is an editorial and brand photographer based in Ann Arbor. Her extensive experience in both design and photography shapes her thoughtful approach to visual storytelling. Through authentic connection, she produces compelling images that are purpose driven.

All content copyright © GRB Ventures Publications 2025. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed written permission of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in nearlywed 2025. No responsibility can be accepted for the quality of goods and services supplied by advertisers or printer’s errors. All advertisements are accepted and published under the representation that the advertiser is properly authorized to publish the entire contents and subject matter thereof.

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Where love stories begin...

At The Wedding Shoppe, we believe that every dress holds the promise of a beautiful love story. Let us help you find the dress that will make your own love story unforgettable.

Two Shops, One Vision

By Rebecca Voigt

Photography by Dominika Stypula-Nawrocki

Beloved Bridal in Ann Arbor has been a favorite with Michigan brides since its opening in 2019. With a second location now open in downtown Detroit, we caught up with founder Ashley Sheehan to learn about Beloved’s next chapter.

What inspired you to start Beloved Bridal?

Our Ann Arbor boutique was born out of a simple wish: that bridal could feel more fashion, less tradition-for-tradition’ssake. We took over an old shop and transformed it into a fresh, modern space for brides who want to stand out — starting with a bold shift in designers and a clear point of view. My sister Meg and I had a mission to bring something new to Michigan brides. We were joined by our youngest sister, Chelsea, in 2020 and expanded our Ann Arbor shop that year.

Why did now feel like the right time to expand to Detroit?

We’ve spent the last few years building something special in Ann Arbor, connecting with incredible brides who wanted more from their dress-shopping experience. And along the way, we kept hearing the same thing: We wish there was something like this in Detroit. Detroit has always inspired us — its energy, its creativity, its unapologetic point of view. It feels like the perfect home for our next chapter. We’re ready to bring a more elevated, fashion-driven bridal experience

to a city that knows good design when it sees it. With a new focus on luxury labels and exclusive collections, this space is for the bride who’s ready for something bold, intentional, and beautifully her own.

How will the stores differ? How will they be the same?

At their core, both stores are built on the same foundation: a love of fashion, a dedication to the experience, and a belief that every bride deserves to feel seen and celebrated. Whether you’re in Ann Arbor or Detroit, you’ll find a team who gets you, a space that feels like stepping into your dream wardrobe, and a curated collection that pushes beyond the typical.

But each location has its own personality. Ann Arbor is our original — it’s warm, approachable, and full of designers that mix cool-girl ease with romantic details. Detroit is our bold big sister — elevated, polished, and luxe from the moment you walk in. With gowns starting at $3,000, Detroit’s lineup leans into high-end fashion and exclusive labels you won’t find anywhere else in the state.

What designers will be available in the Detroit store?

KYHA, Alexandra Grecco, Sarah Seven, Flora, Tina Valerdi, Bronx and Banco, Alyssa Kristin, Dany Tabet, Jane Hill, and another exciting designer that we are hoping to announce soon.

Opening our second location in downtown Detroit is more than just a business move — it’s a fullcircle moment for us as a brand and as sisters. We’re building something that goes beyond the dress. It’s a space where women feel empowered to choose what speaks to them — free from pressure, free from tradition, and full of joy. We’re so proud to bring this experience to Detroit and to be part of a community of incredible brides who are ready for something different.

To learn more visit belovedbridal.com.

Let the Games Begin

By Kerri Molitor

Newly opened in Grand Rapids, Silva is a “dinnertainment” venue ready to host your wedding, bachelor or bachelorette party, or any special event. Located in a historic 1921 furniture factory, Silva combines games and curated events with music and theater performances within their unique 1,400-person venue.

“Our whole vision at Silva is for people to put down their phones and meet someone new,” explains event director Karina Thornquist. “You can enjoy billiards, darts, bocce ball, or any of our scheduled entertainment — from a sword swallower to a costume party.”

Silva also offers multiple spaces for private parties and events. Their biggest space has room for 1,400, but Silva also offers smaller spaces for 25 to 250 people, including the Library, the Conservatory, the Archive, and patio and lounge areas near the bocce court.

With an on-staff photographer, an in-house chef team, and multiple baking and pastry chef partners, Silva can help couples execute any kind of wedding or private party. Their latest offering includes mini weddings, which come with a pre-set theme and decorations, cake, and drinks. For larger events, couples rent the room and bring in outside vendors or utilize Silva’s in-house services. Silva can also tie in its roster of entertainment vendors to any event.

“We can do whatever our customers want,” Thornquist says. “We have the team to execute it and access to a wide range of vendors and entertainment. We just want to make it perfect and fun.”

To learn more visit silvagr.com.

Historic Elegance Meets Modern Luxury

La Isla Bonita

By Rebecca Voigt

Peter Island Resort, the largest private island resort in the British Virgin Islands and a renowned honeymoon destination, is back — and better than ever. Since closing in 2017 when hurricanes Irene and Maria ravaged the Caribbean, the resort has undergone a complete reimaging that has transformed it to a new level of luxury. Now located on a spectacular stretch of Deadman’s Beach, the resort offers guests new beachfront rooms and suites, two redesigned villas, two restaurants, a yacht club, and a 10,000-square-foot seaside spa. When paired with the island’s many natural wonders, the resort’s intimate, casual elegance makes it the perfect destination for a romantic escape.

To learn more visit peterisland.com.

Flowers That Pop

By Kerri Molitor

Nicole Ludema, the artistic mind behind the new boutique Niksi Home & Floral, loves to create floral arrangements that are intentionally designed. Her downtown Grand Rapids shop features pre-made bouquets and carefully curated artisanal and vintage home goods. The store also sells gift cards ideal for bridal showers or thank-you gifts.

Ludema also provides floral services for weddings and other events available for pickup at her store and offers setup and teardown services on a case-bycase basis. Her nearly 15 years of event floral experience, combined with her background as an event and interior designer, allows her to approach wedding florals with the entire space in mind.

“My style is very color-forward and big-picture,” Ludema says. “There are a million different tones for roses or other flowers, all of which help show the full spectrum of color throughout a design to add richness and depth. It’s also helpful for me to know what the room looks like, what linens were chosen, and what the bridesmaids are wearing. I want my bouquets to pop in the environment that they’re in.”

Every floral design created at Niksi Home & Floral is unique and customized to the couple’s vision and budget. Ludema works closely with each couple to identify and develop their ideal floral design.

“It’s important to have mutual trust with my clients,” she says. “I love when a client comes to me with specific ideas, but I also love to help them articulate their vision and bring it to life.”

To learn more visit niksiathome.com.

Chapeau de Mariage

By Giuseppa Nadrowski

In the early 1990s, Boswell Hardwick, the founder and owner of Metro Detroit-based Boswell Millinery, was doing hair and makeup for editorial photo shoots for both local and national publications. It was during this time that he saw legendary rap artist LL Cool J don his iconic bucket hat — a hat that would inspire Hardwick to begin his millinery journey.

“I really wanted a hat like that, so I decided that I would just make one,” he says. “I had a background in sewing and my mom always sewed.”

He fashioned a pattern out of a grocery bag, made the hat — which he describes as more of a “top hat” — and wore it out. “It was a hit,” says Hardwick, who is also an esteemed fashion photographer, artist, and art director.

“I wore it to this awesome concert, and a couple weeks later, I was on the front page of one of the local newspapers.”

While he may have put millinery on pause soon after, he decided to revitalize his passion in 2019 when a former client asked him to create a hat for an event. “I had kept everything from the ’90s, so I decided I would dig up some of my old stuff and see if I could make a go of it,” he says. “I made this really huge, frothy, ostrich feather extravaganza.”

His client won an award for donning the best hat at the event.

“It got me excited about hats again,” Hardwick says. He decided to create a few designs to show some of his industry friends in Paris. They were “incredulous,” he says. “I thought, if I can impress these people, then maybe I really have something here. It really inspired me.” In 2020, he went back to Paris for the launch of his inaugural collection, Ghost, at the Place des Vosges. Boswell Millinery was officially back.

Since then, Hardwick has gone on to show two headwear collections at Pitti Uomo in Florence, participated in three exhibitions in Paris, and has created custom designs for the editorial shoots of celebrated photographer Ellen von Unwerth and fashion stylist Mike Adler. He’s also worked with luminaries such as Academy Award-winning actress Diane Keaton and legendary R&B artist Usher.

“Music videos and fashion editorial shoots — that’s really kind of a sweet spot for me,” Hardwick says. “I want to do interesting, kind of outrageous things.”

Today, his collections are hand-crafted and comprised of ready-to-wear pieces and one-ofa-kind, couture designs. This year, Hardwick launched his first bridal line, Ceremony 25. “I like the idea of being a part of somebody’s really special day,” he says.

The collection is a romantic vision of nature and femininity with abounding floral inspiration. Using horsehair, Hardwick’s bridal creations are a whimsical portrait of his artistry. “Generally, {horsehair is} not a fabric that’s seen,” Hardwick says. “It’s unseen — so I loved bringing it to the light because it’s really a beautiful, versatile fabric.”

From his Floral Mohawk to his

Bridal Bucket Hat and his classic yet cutting-edge fascinators, each hand-made piece reimagines traditional wedding-day fashion for the modern bride. Take his Bridal Helmet for example.

Comprised of handmade poppies and glistening with crystals, the Bridal Helmet, which takes up

to 35 hours to create, epitomizes Hardwick’s elevated vision for the collection and his brand.

“It’s a difficult niche. Hats were de rigueur in the ’40s and ’50s until the early ’60s, when it kind of all ended,” he says. “But the thing I like about hats is that hats are transformative. A hat will

change you. A hat will make you feel differently. A hat will make you look different. A hat will make people see you differently. I love that it will just make you feel special.”

To learn more visit boswellmillinery.com.

Let Them Eat Cake

Whether you’re planning an elaborate bachelorette party or a last-minute elopement, a sweet treat from A Bite

More Bakery’s Quick Order cake menu is the perfect addition to your celebration. Launched in early 2025, the quick order line features cakes that are beautiful, timeless, and highly detailed. From designs curated to match their flavors — think Triple Chocolate,

Cookies & Cream, and Strawberry Vanilla — to wedding-ready, customizable designs like the Fresh Flower Meadow Cake, there’s something for everyone and every style.

“I had been receiving cake requests for last minute get-togethers and celebrations, and I wanted a way to be able to serve this portion of my community,” says McKenna Sturos, owner of A Bite More Bakery. “They are the

embodiment of custom designs, just available at a last-minute notice and easy to order.”

Starting prices for Sturos’ quick order cakes range from $20 to $160, and orders can be placed two months to three days prior to your event.

To learn more visit

THE BARN AT FRENCH VALLEY

Voted Top 3 Leelanau County Wedding Venues

style Modern Trousseau

For her sister’s wedding, couture

bridal designer Sarah Kolis created a collection of looks that are unabashedly feminine

By Mickey Lyons | Photography by Penny Ralene Photography

It’s not often that a bridal designer gets the chance to create a full, old-fashioned trousseau for a client. Especially in the U.S., it’s no longer commonplace for a new bride to have separate, bespoke outfits for her shower, rehearsal dinner, wedding day and next-day honeymoon departure.

Don’t tell that to Sarah Kolis and her sister, Melissa Schreiber, though. When Schreiber got engaged in September 2023, Kolis — not only her sister but a bridal designer as well — wasted no time sketching and designing a full range of outfits for the upcoming nuptials. Luckily, the two share an aesthetic sensibility that veers toward classic lines and femininity.

That sensibility is not overwhelmingly delicate or ethereal in a wispy sort of way. What it is, is unabashedly feminine, a

celebration of vitality and girlyness — in a girl-boss kind of way. All shades of white, of course, but also pale pinks and eyelet lace and scalloped edges on strong-lined jackets, a blend of ultra-feminine style and a retro vibe.

As a graduate of Michigan State University’s textile and apparel program and a veteran of New York Fashion Week, Kolis knew all about combining creativity, hard deadlines and customer relations to showstopping effect. She’s also a seasoned pro at scouting unique fabrics and adding vintage touches from studios around the world, including her favorite shop in London, where the dressmakers of the late Queen Elizabeth II frequently gathered inspiration.

From her design studio in Novi, Kolis masterminded an entire wardrobe custom-made for each occasion. As with any designer-

client relationship, the process was a partnership, but Schreiber wasn’t afraid to allow Kolis to surprise her. “Melissa, as many brides do, got decision fatigue,” Kolis says. “So a couple of weeks in, she said, ‘I am done making decisions.’ ”

Since she knew her sister so well, Kolis felt comfortable surprising Schreiber with the first of her eight outfits — the engagement pictures dress, a sweet rose-colored cocktail dress with lace and appliques that caught the autumn light beautifully.

The full trousseau included a bridal shower dress, two bachelorette party dresses, rehearsal dinner dress, a robe, and a bridal brunch ensemble. Kolis also designed and made the mother-of-the-bride dress and jacket as well as her own looks for the shower and rehearsal dinner.

But the star of the show was the fairytale princess wedding gown — with pockets. When the two sat down to talk through the design, Schreiber did have a very strong sense of the romance she wanted, plus one specific detail.

“Poof sleeves,” Schreiber says.

“And then poofier, and then even more poofy,” Kolis adds.

The final gown, in ivory silk with French alençon lace appliques, is a sweeping statement of grand romance and sweetness.

And those sleeves — poofy and more poofy — signal for both sisters that sweetness can make a bold statement in the right designer’s hands.

To learn more visit sarahkolis.com.

Natural Wonders

Fragrances inspired by the beauty and power of the Great Lakes

By Rebecca Voigt | Photography by Julie Page, Collab Creative

From the fresh and aromatic lakes to the earthy aromas of the surrounding landscape, the Great Lakes are the inspiration for Great Lakes Olfactory, Connie Hicks’ line of handcrafted perfumes and lotions. Each scent is a tribute to the beauty, power, and diversity of these natural wonders, evoking everything from an invigorating walk on the beach to a cozy lakeside campfire. Hicks’ meticulously crafted fragrances are made with the finest natural ingredients, and each scent is named after one of the Great Lakes at different times and seasons. Available in 5ml to 50ml bottles, these made-in-Michigan fragrances are not only perfectly giftable, they’re also the ideal finishing touch for your wedding day.

Great Lakes Olfactory Michigan, Huron, and Erie 30ml Eau de Parfums, $70 each, at gloperfume.com.

How Sweet It Is

A Northern Michigan florist dedicated to spreading joy through flowers

By Kerri Molitor

Kalin Sheick started Sweetwater Floral with $500 and a handme-down Ping-Pong table in her basement — but her passion for spreading joy through flowers grew the business into a successful wedding and event florist, a retail shop in Walloon Lake, and a schedule full of private workshops.

Today, the Sweetwater Floral team is known for an organic and garden-inspired style that reflects the natural beauty of Northern Michigan, where the company is based. Sheick and her team pride themselves on getting to know their couples as people, instead of transactional relationships, and they develop designs with each couple’s intricacies and personal stories in mind.

“We always joke that we’re your favorite florist’s favorite florist,” Sheick says. “When I started, the wedding industry felt so serious and aesthetically driven. I wanted to flip that on its head to focus on the people and the relationships first. We’re not just another vendor you sign a contract with. We aim to be the easiest vendor and the one you have the ultimate trust in.”

The company offers packages for every budget — from fullservice that includes delivery, installation, and teardown, to the a-la-carte Sweetwater Collections that can scale from small

elopements to large 300-person events while allowing couples to pick only the items they need from multiple design palettes.

Beyond the wedding, Sweetwater Floral creates arrangements for rehearsal dinners, morning-after brunches, welcome and bachelorette parties, and other special events. Sheick and her team also offer fun terrarium bars, grab-and-go bouquet bars, and flower crown or centerpiece workshops. Sweetwater Floral’s retail shop in downtown Walloon Lake offers gifts and daily flower orders, and it also features the company’s design studio, hosts workshops, and welcomes couples for meet and greets with the entire design team.

Sweetwater Floral prides itself on making couples’ floral dreams come true and helping them have a stress-free day, but their approach to client relationships is what sets them apart.

“The thing I am most proud of in this company is we do not have turn-and-burn clients,” Sheick says. “We make life-long clients. We see them on their wedding day, and then for grandma’s birthday or baby showers a few years later. We are a company that develops life-long clients in a short-term client industry.”

To learn more visit sweetwaterfloral.com.

PHOTO BY MICHAEL MURPHY

Wink Boudoir believes every bride deserves to feel beautiful, empowered, and confident—capturing this moment with a timeless gift for the one you love.

www.winkboudoir.com | 734-564-4866 | hello@winkboudoir.com

food & drink

Artistic Delights

Karen Williams crafts the cake of your lifetime

By Giuseppa Nadrowski

by Julie Page, Collab Creative

For Karen Williams, the owner and self-taught artist behind Artisan Buttercream, her delectable, luxury desserts are “an unforgettable experience.” Known for her oneof-a-kind wedding and celebration cakes that feature her custom, divine flavors and her painterly decorations, Williams seeks to create lasting memories with every bite.

So, it’s surprising to discover that it wasn’t always about cakes for Williams — or any type of cooking. “The kitchen was just the room that I had to pass through to get to the rest of the house. It was never something that I was interested in,” Williams says.

Before launching her Lathrup Village-based cake business, Williams was a financial manager at Ford Motor Co. It was only by happenstance that Williams got a taste of what her future would hold.

Randomly, she was asked by a family member to bake a cake for a birthday, and much to Williams’ delight, it was a smashing success. A year later, she was asked to bake for another event — she created a pound cake that decidedly won over a host of guests. Not only did they rave about the cake’s flavor, but they continued to order more over the next month. More events and requests for her cakes followed, and soon Williams was crafting her original masterpieces every weekend with a steady clientele, all while balancing her full-time corporate job — until layoffs swept her office.

“I had never not been employed and was like, ‘Oh my, what am I going to do,’” Williams says. “I talked to a couple people, and they were like, ‘You already have something! You’ve been working two full-time jobs. Just try it and give yourself the opportunity and the chance for at least a year, and if it doesn’t pan out, you can jump back in the workforce.’” Heeding their advice, Williams took the plunge into her true passion and launched her beloved business in 2017, creating artistic yet delicious desserts for weddings and events.

From exquisite flavors like her classic vanilla bean, delightful red velvet, and refreshing lemon to her “light and airy” buttercream that “people rave over,” Williams’ bespoke cakes are a picture of edible artistry. Using only the highest quality ingredients, each cake is “scratch made with love and dedication,” says Williams, who prides herself on her customer service. “You are getting a dessert that is customized to your liking but that is going to be made with passion and love.”

For weddings, expect nothing short of extraordinary. “I take into consideration the couple’s desires in terms of their design and the ambiance that they’re going for, but also trying to make sure that they incorporate flavors that are going to pair well.” The goal? To create a cake that the couple’s guests will not only remember but will continue to talk about.

“This is the cake of your lifetime, right? This is the showstopper — the centerpiece of your reception,” Williams says. “When I think about wedding cakes, I try to incorporate something that’s going to give your guests the oohs and the ahhs that you deserve.”

To learn more visit artisanbuttercream.com.

Photography

Lucky Charm

Banter & Charm creates beautiful wedding stationery tailored to your style

By Blake Miller

WhenSarah Guse Brown was planning her wedding in 2008, she knew exactly what she wanted her invitations to look like. But when she began searching for a stationer who would allow her to customize everything from the fonts to the paper, she says she “could not find anyone to do it without it being out-of-this-world expensive.”

So, she took matters into her own hands. Without any experience in graphic design, she taught herself “a bunch of design programs” and created her own wedding stationery — and she ended up loving the design process. It didn’t take long for friends and family to notice her work, and soon they were asking Brown to design their wedding invitations

as well. The high interest inspired her to open an Etsy shop offering custom invitation suites. “It became this fun side gig,” she says. Eventually, Brown took the leap of faith to turn her side hustle into a full-time career, launching her full-service stationery business, Banter & Charm.

Now, most of the elements of Brown’s letterpress designs are bespoke. “My design process is a hybrid where I allow clients to be really involved in the creation of each aspect of the stationery, but I offer a foundation of options to start with,” she explains. Based in St. Joseph on the west side of the state, the mom of two works in tandem with her clients, who choose from 14 different layouts,

a variety of fonts, paper types and weights, decorative elements like monograms, and embellishments such as wax seals and delicate silk ribbons.

“My process really allows couples to commission wedding invitations perfectly tailored to their style without an over-the-top, lengthy, complicated custom design process,” she says. “The invite is the first thing your guest receives. It sets the tone for your wedding. And I want to help couples achieve that with beautiful wedding stationery.”

To learn more visit banterandcharm.com

Your love is forever; celebrate in timeless elegance at the Ballroom at CityFlatsHotel .

Soaring, vaulted ceilings. Marble columns and genuine terrazzo floors. A sweeping, grand staircase. And, best of all, a team of experts who are ready to make your wedding dreams come true.

We also have a gorgeous Ballroom in scenic Port Huron on Michigan’s Thumbcoast.

Visit us today at WWW.CITYFLATSHOTEL.COM or call (844) 550-CITY

Jamie & Sarah Photography

Ryan Inman Photography

Sydney Marie Photography

Kate Touzel Photo

Ryan Inman Photography

A Desert Oasis Calls

Magnificent honeymoon destinations for an unforgettable adventure

By Shalee Super

F rom Sahara dune camps to luxury sandstone retreats, escape to bucket-list-worthy desert honeymoon destinations. These hidden oases throughout the globe are equal parts romantic and mesmerizing. Ride camels at sunset, dive into infinity pools, or sip espresso as elephants make their morning commute. No matter which destination you choose, it’s guaranteed to be the adventure of a lifetime.

Our Habitas AlUla, Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is an up-and-coming destination with a lot to offer adventurous newlyweds looking for extraordinary landscapes and impeccable hospitality. Our Habitas AlUla Hotel opened in 2021 as a fully sustainable retreat, offering 96 rooms, including villas and suites. The entire estate is an Insta-worthy dream, with backdrops of towering red rocks and vast, endless desert. ourhabitas.com/alula

Paradero Todos Santos, Mexico

Not your typical Mexico honeymoon, in all the best ways — Paradero Todos Santos calls itself an “experience-inclusive hotel,” meaning here, experiences come first. Blending in with the desert of the Baja Peninsula, this otherworldly luxury resort is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Surf, sail, or siesta with your new spouse as you enjoy wedded bliss in this unforgettable destination. paraderohotels.com

travel

Amangiri, Utah

Tucked away among the sandstone cliffs of remote southern Utah, Amangiri is one of the most famous desert resorts in the world. The 44 guest rooms and suites are situated on a 900-acre estate with private guest-only offerings that range from hiking and boating to private air tours. Its remoteness and exclusivity have made it a favorite retreat for celebrities and honeymooners alike. aman.com/resorts/amangiri

The Joshua Tree House Tucson, Arizona

A design-forward desert escape on the edge of Saguaro National Park, the Joshua Tree House Tucson sits on 38 acres of unspoiled wilderness in the Arizona desert. Featuring six unique suites, the inn was thoughtfully designed to create an intimate retreat connected with nature. Sip coffee from the rooftop terrace, take a plunge in the canyon pool, or pack a picnic for a hike. Planning a dreamy desert elopement? The entire inn can also be rented for micro-weddings. thejoshuatreehouse.com/tucson

Our Habitas Namibia, Namibia

Live out your safari dreams at Our Habitas Namibia, which beautifully blends romance, luxury, adventure, and wildlife. The resort is situated on a nature reserve of 51,000 acres, home to elephants, zebras, lions, giraffes, and many more of Africa’s iconic wild animals. Elevated on a hill above the savanna, the hotel offers tent rooms with captivating panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Wedding, honeymoon, and all-inclusive packages are all available upon inquiry. ourhabitas.com/namibia

Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort

by Anantara, Abu Dhabi

A short drive from the bustling city of Abu Dhabi is the edge of the Rub’ Al Khali Desert, an ideal destination for luxury desert retreats. The Qasr Al Sarab Resort is a star among many hotels, and it excels at combining luxury and romance in its newly modernized estate. Take a dip in your private pool from your one-bedroom honeymoon villa before setting off into the desert by camel for a private sunset dinner. anantara.com/en/qasr-al-sarab-abu-dhabi

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Desert Modern

By Blake Miller

Infuse your home with organic, contemporary home décor and accents that are simultaneously rugged and elegant

1 Julo Blue and White Dinner Plate, $17, at Crate & Barrel, Novi; 248.643.6610; crateandbarrel.com.

2 Caraway Sauté Pan in Perracotta, $145, at caraway.com.

3 Greentree Home Rope Taper Candles, $30 for two, at Thistle & Bess, Ann Arbor; 734.369.6092; thistleandbess.com.

4 The Cozy Comfy Home Wedding Guest Book, starting at $53, at etsy.com.

5 Lobmeyr Alhambra Double Old-Fashioned Tumbler, $355, at KNEEN & Co., Chicago; 312.643.1190; kneenandco.com.

6 Harrow Throw in Cream, $96, at Stoffer Home, Grand Rapids; stofferhome.com.

7 Nambe Copper Canyon Chip & Dip, $150, at The League Shop, Grosse Pointe; 313.882.6880; leagueshop.com.

8 S|H Ceramic Mug in Matte Black, $30, at Stoffer Home, Grand Rapids; stofferhome.com.

9 “Desert at Dusk” Canvas by Susan Singer, $799, at Pottery Barn stores and potterybarn.com.

10 Nymphenburg Cactus Flower Painted Table Flowers, $610, at KNEEN & Co., Chicago; 312.643.1190; kneenandco.com.

11 Billy Reid x Williams Sonoma 3-Piece Cocktail Shaker & Strainer Set, $80, at Williams Sonoma stores and williams-sonoma.com.

12 Modern Sprout Coastal Desert Rose Bonsai Hydro Grow Kit, $24, at City Bird, Detroit; 313.831.9146; citybirddetroit.com.

13 S|H Saddle Velvet Designer Pillow Cover, $82, at Stoffer Home, Grand Rapids; stofferhome.com.

14 Bishop Nightstand, $749, at Stoffer Home, Grand Rapids; stofferhome.com.

dream world

Opposite Page: Milla Nova Meadow floral lace applique gown, $3,250, at Viero Bridal, Royal Oak; 947.224.8407; vieroweddingdresses.com.

PHOTOGRAPHY

MICHELLE CUPPY

STYLING

REBECCA VOIGT HAIR

SHANNON BISHOP MAKEUP

ASHLYN SINISHTAJ

MODEL

ISABELLA PAUL, ENDLESS MANAGEMENT

FLORAL STYLING

MALORIE EVENS, HONEYBABY FLORAL DESIGN & FARM

Hana Abboud Rosie off-the-shoulder rose embellished column gown, $3,000, at Hana Abboud, Dearborn; 313.900.1783; hanaabboud.com.

This Page: Watters Lumen hand-beaded draped tulle corset gown, $3,390, at Spring Sweet, Holland; 616.303.3013; springsweet.com. Opposite Page: Pilar Aleece June gown, $1,899, at The Wedding Shoppe, Berkley; 248.541.1988; theweddingshoppe.net. Chosen by KYHA Balmat floral sheath veil, $1,050, at Beloved Bridal, Detroit; 734.834.4696; belovedbridal.com.

This Page: La Premiere Ideal high neck gown with detachable bow, starting at $3,400, at Becker’s Bridal, Fowler; 989.593.2595; beckersbridal.com. Opposite Page: Chosen by KYHA Blanc gown, $5,295, at Beloved Bridal, Detroit; 734.834.4696; belovedbridal.com.

This Page: Enzoani Sharon corseted lace gown, starting at $3,700, at Becker’s Bridal, Fowler; 989.593.2595; beckersbridal. com. Opposite Page: Reem Acra Des Fleurs column gown, $12,500, at Reem Acra, New York; 212.421.3200; reemacra.com.

This Page: Watters Lumen hand-beaded draped tulle corset gown, $3,390, at Spring Sweet, Holland; 616.303.3013; springsweet.com. Opposite Page: Ines di Santo Josselyn strapless basque waist gown with detachable sleeves, price upon request, at Roma Sposa, Birmingham; 248.723.4300; romasposa.com.

sugar rush

Delight your guests with custom wedding cookies inspired by the beauty of the four seasons

BY REBECCA VOIGT

PHOTOGRAPHY

JULIE PAGE, COLLAB CREATIVE

Summer

Inspired by the beauty of blooming gardens and the magic of new beginnings, these cookies capture the essence of a romantic summer wedding. Vanessa Shmanske of Sweet Details incorporated charming shapes like butterflies, bows, and engagement rings to highlight the special details that make a wedding day unique. “Printed backgrounds echo the invitation suite, creating a cohesive and dreamy aesthetic that ties the entire celebration together,” Shmanske says. “This is one of our favorite details to add here at Sweet Details GR.” Individual cookie favors start at $65 per dozen and custom sets start at $75 per dozen, at Sweet Details, Grand Rapids; sweetdetailsgr.com.

Fall

Feminine florals inspired these fall cookies designed by McKenna Sturos of A Bite More Bakery. “I went with a soft color palette with neutrals and orange hues to play with the autumnal theme,” Sturos says. The added touch of gold provides depth and further interest. Decorated sugar cookies start at $6 per cookie, at A Bite More Bakery, Brighton; abitemorebakery.com.

Winter

A black-and-white color palette sets the tone for these elegant winter-inspired cookies designed by Amanda O’Neal of Sweet Mae’s Desserts. Gold details and anemone flowers give the set depth and beauty. “I take most of my inspiration from the invitations and photos of décor,” O’Neal says. “I love it when a client sends me a mood board.” Wedding cookie sets start at $65 per dozen, at Sweet Mae’s Deserts, Plymouth; sweetmaesdessertsmichigan.com.

Spring

These soft vanilla-almond cookies with vanilla-bean flecked icing and custom hand-piped designs, created by Laurel Kosel of Laurel Twist & Co., are elegant with a balanced, subtle sweetness perfect for spring. “These cookies were inspired by the many hues of spring, the timeless elegance of Bridgerton, and, unintentionally, my own wedding,” Kosel says. “They reflect a personal blend of delicate beauty and nostalgia.” Custom wedding cookies start at $72 per dozen, at Laurel Twist & Co., Ann Arbor; laureltwist.com.

après soirée

Keep the party going all night

in a chic mini dress paired with fashion forward accessories

PHOTOGRAPHY

ABBY ROSE PHOTO

STYLING

REBECCA VOIGT

HAIR

SHANNON BISHOP

MAKEUP

AUBREY EMERSON

MODEL

MAYA RIDDLE

This page and previous spread: Hana Abboud Ardell dress and sleeves, $3,400, and Ariel Taub Cassidy birdcage veil, $520, at Hana Abboud, Dearborn; 313.900.1783; hanaabboud. com. Oscar de la Renta chain necklace, $1,990, and Versace Mini Top Handle Bag, $2,995, at Leigh’s, Grand Rapids; 616.942.6300; leighsfashions.com. Anuja Tolia snake earrings, $36, at Ferne, Ann Arbor; 734.369.2526; ferneboutique.com. Elisa Johnson Lyric Leigh sunglasses, $563, at Coup D’État, Detroit; 313.782.4480; shopcoupdetat.com. Sam Edelman Kia block heel sandals, $120, at samedelman.com. Opposite page: Untamed Petals Harlow dress, $528, and Linda Richards New York white ostrich jacket, $396, at Ivory Loft, Fenton; 810.629.7320; ivoryloftbridal.com. Panconesi Blow Up Solar Ring, $1,351, and Half Moon Hoops, $826, at Coup D’État, Detroit; 313.782.4480; shopcoupdetat.com. Adorro Sabrina bow hair clip, $14, at Ferne, Ann Arbor; 734.369.2526; ferneboutique.com. Loeffler Randall Margot bow mule in rose, $375, at Leigh’s, Grand Rapids; 616.942.6300; leighsfashions.com. MOOCHI tights, $9, at amazon.com.

This page: SANS FAFF Sicily Snatched Blazer, $795, Alexander McQueen sunglasses, $485, and Balmain B-Buzz small bag, $1,550, at Leigh’s, Grand Rapids; 616.942.6300; leighsfashions.com. Anuja Tolia Dellacorte earrings, $36, at Ferne, Ann Arbor; 734.369.2526; ferneboutique.com. Benefeet Sox tights, $14, at amazon.com. Alexander Wang vintage Tasha bandage boot, stylist’s own. Opposite page: Sareh Nouri Truly Madly Deeply pearl embroidered square neck mini gown, $4,990, at The Wedding Shoppe, Berkley; 248.541.1988; theweddingshoppe.net. Lié Studio Molly hair clips, $185 each, and Bruce Eris 14k gold diamond ring, $1,904, at Eugenie, Detroit; 313.556.2110; eugeniedetroit.com.

This page: Oscar de la Renta long sleeve cocktail dress with radzimir skirt, price upon request, and small pavé rose earrings, $390, at oscardelarenta.com. Cult Gaia Paloma clutch, $348, at Leigh’s, Grand Rapids; 616.942.6300; leighsfashions.com. Yves Saint Laurent vintage Tribtoo 105 pumps, stylist’s own. Opposite page: Ines di Santo Ariadne sequin tulle mini dress with beaded fringe, price upon request, at Roma Sposa, Birmingham; 248.723.4300; romasposa.com. Justine Clenquet Milla earrings, $413, at Coup D’État, Detroit; 313.782.4480; shopcoupdetat.com. Lié Studio Margaret necklace, $380, and Edith necklace, $440, at Eugenie, Detroit; 313.556.2110; eugeniedetroit.com.

a dream come true

A picture-perfect wedding day overlooking the Detroit River

By Angela Flynn | Photography by Alicia Frances Photography

It was a gorgeous summer day in downtown Detroit — not a cloud in the sky with the sun’s bright rays glistening off the Detroit River. On July 13, 2024, the city produced a most picturesque backdrop for the wedding of Allyson and Kyle Connor.

While they split their time between Michigan and Canada, where Kyle plays professional hockey for the Winnipeg Jets, saying “I do” in Detroit was an easy decision for the couple.

They met in 2017 through Instagram. “Throughout talking, we realized what a small world it was,” Allyson says. “Our family homes were only a few miles from one another, and we had grown up in the same area of

Michigan as each other. We finally went on our first date the summer of 2018. From that point on we were pretty much inseparable.”

About five years after that first date, Kyle planned a romantic weekend in Traverse City, including winery tours, a private sailboat ride, and an idyllic walk on the beach, which is where he popped the question. “It was perfect, and private, and I was so excited to say yes!”

Allyson says. “I couldn’t have imagined a more incredible, intimate, thoughtful proposal. It was perfect, a dream come true.”

With Kyle’s hockey season taking a break during the summer, they knew it would be an ideal time for their

featured wedding

big day. “We chose to get married in July so that we would have some time to enjoy newly married life together before the hockey season started back up in September,” Allyson says. “Also, you can’t beat a Michigan summer and the beautiful weather that it brings.”

They chose to wed at The Icon in Detroit after it was recommended by their wedding planner, Lauren Postma of Lo and Co Event Design. “I can’t imagine going about {wedding planning} without our amazing planner,”

Allyson says. “Her vision for creativity and detail was next level and is truly what made the overall design of our space come to life on the wedding day.”

Wedding planning — especially long-distance wedding planning — was made seamless with the help of Postma, which is why Allyson strongly recommends couples partner with a planner if possible. “If hiring a planner is in the budget, I think that it’s 100 percent worth it to do so,” she says. “Having someone to keep you on track with a timeline and checklist was a life saver.”

On the morning of the wedding, both Allyson and Kyle prepared for their day at the Shinola Hotel, booking suites with a terrace so they could relax, play cards, and snap fun photos while getting ready with each of their wedding parties. From the Shinola, they made their way

to The Icon, where they became Mr. and Mrs. Connor in front of 130 of their family and friends.

“We loved the idea of our ceremony being outside on the grounds, alongside the Detroit River,” Allyson says.

“The large outdoor patio area was perfect for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres following the ceremony, and we loved the bright and airy feel of the atrium for our reception.”

With their first anniversary approaching and the entire planning process behind them, Allyson has some simple advice for couples to remember from start to finish.

“Just have fun!” she says. “Enjoy the wedding planning process and the wedding day, because it really does fly by. Try to soak in every single detail and spend as much time with your partner as you can.”

featured wedding

VENDORS

Photographer Alicia Frances

Photography

Wedding Planner Lo & Co Event Design

Ceremony & Reception The Icon

Officiant Nichole Bertucci

Wedding Gown Piera’s Bridal Couture

Wedding Shoes Kailee P. Wedding Shoes

Wedding Suit Tom Ford

Rings & Jewelry Wachler Estate Collection

Hair & Makeup Team Glam Detroit

Bridesmaids Billy J Fashion Boutique

Catering Cutting Edge Cuisine

Cake & Desserts Sweet Bree’s Bakeshop

Music & Entertainment The Elysium

Experience

Florals Brunette Blossoms

Stationery Mackenzie Joan Designs

Event Rentals Detroit Chiavari, Fabulous

Events, Event Theory, and Modernly Events

Linens BBJ La Tavola

Draping & Lighting Display Group

Transportation Motor City Vintage Rentals

Videographer The Smiths

Photo Booth Mammoth! Party

real weddings

Meghan + Dave

Linnea + David

Marlee + Samuel

Madison + Nicholas

Olivia + Connor

Shibandri + Abishek

Emily + Gabe

Marya + John

Desiree + Julian

Grace + Jackson

Meagan + Luke

Emma + Chipper

Photo by The Fourniers

Chloe + Spencer

June 16, 2024

West Michigan

Photographer

The Fourniers

Wedding Planner

Modern Day Collective

Ceremony + Reception Venue

Greencrest Manor

Wedding Gown

Oscar de la Renta

Wedding Shoes

Bride — Gianvito Rossi

Groom — Stubbs & Wootton

Wedding Suit

Ralph Lauren

Hair + Makeup

Eric Gerson Makeup

Bridesmaids

Maid of Honor — Milla

Bridesmaids — Various

Catering + Bartending

Millennium Catering & Events

Cake + Desserts

Bert’s Bakery

Music + Entertainment

Bluewater Kings Band

Florals

Modern Day Collective

Stationery

Chloe Rowe Studio

Event Rentals

Special Occasions Event Rental & Design and Gigi & LaClede

Linens

Special Occasions Event Rental & Design

Transportation

Great Lakes Motorcoach

Videographer

Our Story Creative

Rehearsal Dinner

Greencrest Manor

Officiant

Brother of the bride

Additional Vendors

Hand-Painted Champagne Bottle —

Anna Schwartz Art

Chelesea + Aaron

September 7, 2024

Southeast Michigan

Photographer

Patty Leonor

Wedding Planner

LDT Events

Ceremony + Reception Venue

Anthology Events at Book Tower

Wedding Gown

Made With Love, Ivory Loft, and Sarah Kolis

Wedding Shoes

Bella Belle

Wedding Suit

Men’s Wearhouse

Hair

Team Glam Detroit and Katie Lynn Locks

Makeup

Team Glam Detroit and La Beautiquecheri

Groomsmen

Men’s Wearhouse

Catering

Anthology Events at Book Tower

Cake + Desserts

Desserts by Anthology Events

Music + Entertainment

Bluewater Kings Band and Midtown Strings

Florals

Jen House Design

Stationery

Peppermint Press

Transportation

Motor City Vintage Rentals

Videographer

Sprouts Content Creation

Rehearsal Dinner

Le Suprême Restaurant at Book Tower

Officiant

Nichole Bertucci, A Simple I Do

Additional Vendors

Dog Concierge — Plus the Pups

Favors — Vice Golf

Hotel — ROOST Detroit at Book Tower

Maya + Nicky

October 27, 2024 West Michigan

Ceremony

Groomsmen

StudioSuits

Cake + Desserts The Cakabakery

Chelsea + Vishan

November 30, 2024 Outside Michigan

Photographer

Salt Atelier

Ceremony + Reception Venue

Bendooley Estate, Australia

Wedding Gown

Liz Martinez Bridal

Wedding Shoes

Gucci

Wedding Suit

Wolcott St.

Hair + Makeup

Sophie Lau

Catering + Bartending

Bendooley Estate

Cake + Desserts

CAKED by Carissa

Music + Entertainment

Red Soda Band

Florals

The Flower Pursuit

Stationery

Ginger & Hum Studio

Videographer

Salt Atelier

Madison + Nicholas

October 26, 2024

West Michigan

Photographer

Andi B Photography

Wedding Planner

On This Day Events

Ceremony Venue

Cathedral of Saint Andrew

Reception Venue

Venue3Two

Wedding Gown

Justin Alexander, Renee Austin Wedding

Wedding Shoes

Badgley Mischka, Magnanni, and custom Converse

Wedding Suit

Coppley 1883, Fitzgerald’s Men’s Store

Rings + Jewelry

Rings — Almassian Jewelers

Earrings — Tiffany & Co. and Shashi

Hair

Cheeky Strut

Makeup

Kosmetics by Katie

Bridesmaids

Dessy Group

Groomsmen

The Black Tux

Catering + Bartending

Martha’s Catering

Cake + Desserts

Nantucket Baking Co.

Music + Entertainment

Adrian Butler

Florals

Events by Ludemas

Stationery

Pretty Petal Papers

Event Rentals

Events by I. Candy, Events by Ludemas, and Venue3Two

Linens

Martha’s Catering

Transportation

Affordable Limousine

Videographer

Stephen Norregaard

Rehearsal Dinner

Bistro Bella Vita

Officiant

Fr. Dat Tran, C.S.P

Additional Vendors

Tan — Grand City Tanning

McKenzie + Drake

June 15, 2024

Southeast Michigan

Photographer

Blaine Siesser Photography

Wedding Planner

Simply Brilliant Events

Ceremony Venue

St. Aloysius Parish

Reception Venue

Anthology Events at Book Tower

Wedding Gown

Alyne by Rita Vinieris, The Wedding Shoppe

Wedding Shoes

Badgley Mischka

Wedding Suit

Sam Michael’s

Hair + Makeup

Todd’s Room

Cake + Desserts

Cantoro Italian Market

Music + Entertainment

Bluewater Kings Band

Florals

Jen House Design

Stationery

Invitations by Caitlin

Event Rentals

Event Source

Linens

Luxe Event Linens

Videographer

Black Tie White Dress Productions

Rehearsal Dinner

Kamper’s Rooftop Lounge at Book Tower

Emily + Gabe

September 14, 2024

Northern Michigan

Photographer

Nathan English Photography

Wedding Planner

Fox & Fern Events

Ceremony + Reception Venue

Cherry Basket Farm

Wedding Gown

Sarah Seven NYC

Wedding Shoes

Stuart Weitzman

Wedding Suit

1701 Bespoke

Rings + Jewelry

Boone & Sons Jewelers

Hair + Makeup

Onsite Bridal

Bridesmaids

Amsale

Groomsmen

The Black Tux

Catering

Island Thyme Catering

Bartending

Tonic and Lime

Cake + Desserts

Moomer’s Ice Cream

Music + Entertainment

2Bays DJs and Mike Davis Trio

Florals

Linnaea Floral

Stationery

Rebecca Green Design with custom illustrations by the bride’s sister, Elizabeth Vogt

Event Rentals

Timeless Event Rental, Eleve Events, and Redi Rentals

Linens

TC Tented Events

Transportation

Blue Lakes By The Bay

Photo Booth

Happy Snappy Photobooth

Rehearsal Dinner

Glen Arbor Township Hall

Officiant

Family friend

Desiree + Julian

Meagan + Luke

August 31, 2024

West Michigan

Photographer

Chrystin Melanie Photography

Ceremony Venue

Princeton Christian Reformed Church

Reception Venue

Amway Grand Plaza Hotel

Wedding Gown

Beloved Bridal

Wedding Shoes

Tony Bianco

Wedding Suit

Jos. A. Bank

Rings + Jewelry

DeVries Jewelers

Hair

Echo Salon

Bridesmaids

PepperMayo

Groomsmen

Jos. A. Bank

Catering, Bartending, Cake + Desserts

Amway Grand Plaza Hotel

Music + Entertainment

Music Host Entertainment

Florals

Events by Ludemas

Stationery

Velvet Raptor

Transportation

Affordable Limousine

Rehearsal Dinner

Kent Country Club

Officiant

Cody Mahaffy

Meghan + Dave

September 1, 2024 West Michigan

Photographer

Jill DeVries Photography

Wedding Planner

Day of Coordinator — Susie Sauer

Ceremony + Reception Venue

Camp Newaygo

Wedding Gown

Rebecca Ingram

Wedding Shoes

Jessica Simpson

Wedding Suit

Indochino

Rings + Jewelry

Dimend SCAASI

Hair

Rachel Walsh

Catering, Cake + Desserts

Ridge Catering

Bartending

Beviamo! Mobile Bar

Music + Entertainment

Bluewater Kings Band

Florals

AM Florals & Gifts

Stationery

Ariel Sinha

Event Rentals

Beviamo! Mobile Bar

Rehearsal Dinner

Camp Newaygo

Officiant

Brenna Ford

Linnea + David

July 5, 2024

Northern Michigan

Photographer

Jenna Borst Photography

Ceremony + Reception Venue

Bay View Weddings at Gallagher Farms

Wedding Gown

Sophia Tolli, Becker’s Bridal

Wedding Shoes

Dolce Vita

Wedding Suit

Suit Shop

Rings + Jewelry

Devries Jewelers

Hair

Rad Roots

Makeup

Faith Forcier Creative

Bridesmaids

Billy J

Groomsmen

Suit Shop

Catering + Bartending

Catering by Kelly’s

Cake + Desserts

Arnie’s Bakery

Music + Entertainment

Rock Out Entertainment

Florals

Cass and Jean Flower Co.

Stationery

Designed by Bride

Event Rentals

Timeless Event Rental and TC Tented Events

Linens

TC Tented Events

Transportation

Up North Taxi

Videographer

Granger Creative

Photo Booth

Rock Out Entertainment

Rehearsal Dinner

Anchor Inn

Officiant

John Hofstra

Xie + Paul

September 21, 2024

Outside Michigan

Photographer

Le Roex Media

Wedding Planner

Lovely Weddings Italy

Ceremony + Reception Venue

Villa Grabau, Italy

Wedding Gown

Galia Lahav Couture

Wedding Shoes

Mach and Mach, Bottega Veneta, and Gucci

Wedding Suit

P. Johnson Tailors

Rings + Jewelry

Hamra Diamonds

Catering, Cake + Desserts

Roland’s Florence

Bartending

Event in Bar

Music + Entertainment

Radio Kings Band

Florals

Gideon Hermosa

Stationery

Craftsman Paper Co.

Transportation

Italian Wedding Games

Videographer

Le Roex Media

Rehearsal Dinner

Gli Orti

Officiant

Nnamudi Amobi

Additional Vendors

Content Creator — Social Soirée

Marlee + Samuel

September 7, 2024

West Michigan

Photographer

Alexis Mast Brown Photography

Wedding Planner

Azaleas Design

Ceremony + Reception Venue

Alaska Haus

Wedding Gown

Bridal Elegance

Wedding Shoes

Seychelles, Anthropologie

Wedding Suit

Brooks Brothers

Rings + Jewelry

Olive Ave. Jewelry

Hair + Makeup

Hair Magic by Nicole Bridesmaids

Various

Groomsmen

Suit Shop

Catering

Gilmore Catering

Bartending

Knight Hawk

Cake + Desserts

The Cakabakery

Music + Entertainment

Sam the Music Host

Florals + Stationery

Azaleas Design

Transportation

Affordable Limousine

Videographer

Studio Schickel

Rehearsal Dinner

Myrth

Olivia + Connor

May 25, 2024 West Michigan

Photographer

Megan Adley Photo

Ceremony Venue

Basilica of Saint Adalbert

Reception Venue

Leona Road

Wedding Gown

Chosen by KYHA, Beloved Bridal

Wedding Suit

The Black Tux

Rings + Jewelry

Tapper’s Jewelry

Hair + Makeup

Cheeky Strut

Bridesmaids

Revelry

Groomsmen

The Black Tux

Catering, Cake + Desserts

Gilmore Catering

Music + Entertainment

Bluewater Kings Band

Florals

Mitten Floral

Stationery

Zola

Transportation

Affordable Limousine

Videographer

The Smiths

Rehearsal Dinner

Scholar

Shibandri + Abishek

August 10, 2024

Southeast Michigan

Photographer

Dave & Ang Photography

Wedding Planner

Christa Graham Weddings & Events

Ceremony Venue

Bharatiya Temple

Reception Venue

Shepherd’s Hollow

Wedding Gown + Shoes

Made in India

Wedding Suit

Traditional Clothing — Made in India

Custom Suit — Manno Clothing & Tailoring

Hair + Makeup

Beauty by Ekta

Catering

Rao Gari Vindu

Bartending

Shepherd’s Hollow

Cake + Desserts

Sorella’s Cake Studio

Music + Entertainment

Sugar Events & Entertainment

Florals

MI Honeybee Flowers

Stationery

Minted

Event Rentals

Hemsu Decorations and Rentals

Transportation

Motor City Vintage Rentals

Videographer

Shan Photography

Officiant

Purnendu Chakroborty

Marya + John

September 7, 2024

Northern Michigan

Photographer

Samantha James Photography

Wedding Planner

Elsilu Event Planning & Design

Ceremony + Reception Venue

Bay Harbor Yacht Club

Wedding Gown

Wedding Atelier

Hair + Makeup

Vogue Salon

Cake + Desserts

Small Batch at The Cupola

Music + Entertainment

DJ Nibal, Haddad Entertainment

Florals

Flora Rae

Stationery

Hill Design Co.

Event Rentals + Linens

Timeless Event Rental

Transportation

Sunset Premier Shuttle

Videographer

Montage Media Films

Rehearsal Dinner

Gypsy Distillery

Officiants

Friends of the couple

Grace + Jackson

July 27, 2024

Southeast Michigan

Photographer

Penny Ralene Photography

Wedding Planner

Krystina Lynn Weddings & Events

Ceremony + Reception Venue

Saint John’s Resort

Wedding Gown

Magnolia Laine Bridal

Wedding Shoes

Loeffler Randall

Wedding Suit

Bonobos

Makeup

Michelle Ghafari Beauty

Bridesmaids

Various Groomsmen

Bonobos

Catering

Saint John’s Resort

Music + Entertainment

Pro DJ Services

Florals

Adorned Fine Flowers

Stationery

Write Impressions

Event Rentals

Detroit Chiavari

Linens

BBJ La Tavola, Special Occasions Event Rental & Design and Linen Hero

Videographer

Complete Video Solutions

Rehearsal Dinner

Saint John’s Resort

Emma + Chipper

June 8, 2024 West Michigan

Photographer

Samantha Leigh Studios

Ceremony + Reception Venue

Être Farms

Wedding Gown

Allison Webb, Norah’s Bridal

Wedding Shoes

Badgley Mischka

Wedding Suit

Manno Clothing & Tailoring

Rings + Jewelry

Engagement Ring — Coughlin Jewelers

Wedding Bands — Brothers Fine Jewelry

Hair + Makeup

Alder Hair Studio

Bridesmaids

Billy J

Groomsmen

Manno Clothing & Tailoring

Catering + Bartending

Être Farms

Cake + Desserts

Cake — Dairy Queen

Desserts — Être Farms

Music + Entertainment

DJ Sevven

Florals

Être Farms

Stationery

Minted

Event Rentals + Linens

Être Farms

vendor directory

Photo by Alexis Mast Brown Photography

Zingerman’s Cornman Farms

There’s something about Zingerman’s Cornman Farms — a multi-awardwinning, chef-led event space, wedding venue, and working farm in Dexter — that feels like home. Something warmly nostalgic. Maybe it’s the classic red barn, or the picture-perfect white farmhouse. Perhaps it’s the big maple trees, sunflowers, or sweeping lawn. Maybe it’s the smell of fresh-baked bread pudding wafting out of our farmhouse kitchen. What matters most is this: you’ll feel right at home here. What could be more important on your most special day?

Located on 27 beautiful acres, Zingerman’s Cornman Farms and its venues were restored from their 1834 foundations with the most discerning guests in mind. Featuring a beautiful exhibition kitchen, chef’s garden, a classic farmhouse, and four-season barn, guests can enjoy the beauty of the countryside just minutes from downtown Ann Arbor.

Our team will work with you to create a custom experience that’s perfectly suited to your vision. Cornman Farms offers inclusive wedding packages for intimate celebrations for four to 75 guests. We’re experts

at planning and hosting events of all kinds — especially if they involve gathering around fantastic, farm-to-table food. That’s exactly why Chef Kieron Hales reimagined this historic property as an event venue with an emphasis on excellent food. The way we see it, nothing brings a family, a team, or community together like good food.

Time and time again, we hear from people who celebrate with us that we come to feel like an extension of their family — and to us, there’s no greater compliment. After all, weddings and other momentous occasions are about family — the one you’re born into, the one you join by marriage, and the one you create for yourself. At Cornman Farms, we want to be more than the backdrop to your most important day. That’s why we put so much love and care into making your wedding perfect. We understand that the little details are what make your day distinctly, undeniably yours, so from the time you reach out to us through your event and beyond, we take the little things just as seriously as you do. We’ll take care of everything for your wedding, giving you the chance to relax and be fully present for every magical moment.

The Ballroom @ CityFlatsHotel

Highlights

Our venue is different from the rest because we are a one-stop-shop for couples. CityFlatsHotel is a boutique hotel centrally located in downtown Grand Rapids, within walking distance of all the city’s most popular attractions. Our Ballroom Suite and hotel rooms are available for the wedding party to get ready in, while they enjoy in-house breakfast, lunch, or mimosas. We also have the Parlour @ CityFlatsHotel, our hair and makeup salon that specializes in bridal styling. Couples can have their ceremony in the Ballroom, head to Events @ CityFlatsHotel — our modern, smaller-sized venue — for cocktail hour, and then return to the Ballroom for the reception. Keeping guests in one location leaves more time for fun and less time spent traveling. Rehearsal dinner and postwedding brunches can also be arranged in-house.

LAURENDA MARIE

PHOTOGRAPHY

District 5 Schoolhouse

Contact email sarah@schoolhouse5.com

Highlights

Gratuity/service

Must

On-site

A.V.

District 5 Schoolhouse is a historic treasure located in Borculo, just north of Zeeland and 10 miles from Lake Michigan. Tin ceilings, chalkboards, and old books still find their place in this 3,500-squarefoot schoolhouse. The main floor comfortably seats up to 180 guests with a large dance floor and buffet area. We have no restrictions on your choice of caterer, both food and beverage — a perk not many venues offer. On the lower level, you will find spacious groom and bridal lounges. The three-acre country setting offers plenty of room for outdoor ceremonies, yard games, or a cozy bonfire at the end of the night. Whether it’s bringing in a food truck or hanging twinkle lights in the windows, our goal is to help you create your day, your way.

Grand Rapids Downtown Market

Highlights

From our breathtaking botanicals to the views of downtown Grand Rapids, the Downtown Market has the space and amenities you need for a memorable day. Our building is simple and modern, making it the perfect canvas. The Market is LEED Gold certified, features a green roof, live walls, geotherm wells, a rain garden, and plenty of other innovative, sustainable features. From fun and fancy appetizers to mouth-watering gourmet meals, our exclusive full-service caterers provide creative on-site dining experiences. Our fun, collaborative, and hard-working events team coordinates more than 70 wedding celebrations annually for groups large and small. Greenhouse ceremonies, Banquet Room receptions, terrace cocktail hours — we’ve done it all. Your big day is OUR big day here at the Market.

Bay Pointe

Highlights

Bay Pointe is a family-owned, award-winning, full-service resort nestled along the South shore of Gun Lake. When you celebrate your wedding with us, you will experience distinct, personalized service, centered around you and your dreams. Conveniently located between Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo, or Chicago and Detroit, Bay Pointe is a flexible allseason venue. Our events and banquet teams specialize in vibrant spring, lavish summer, twilight autumn, and cozy indoor winter weddings for up to 300 guests. We provide event planning, full-service catering, food tasting, on-site lodging, ceremony spaces, and set-up and teardown for our couples. The Bay Pointe wedding promise is to make your special day amazing from the time you, your wedding party, and guests arrive. Don’t settle for a typical location, enjoy a Bay Pointe celebration.

The Waddell Center

Highlights

Charming and rustic with a hint of modern, The Waddell Center — a highly desirable downtown Grand Rapids facility featuring antique brick accents and wood-beamed ceilings — is a spectacular destination for your wedding ceremony and reception. Custom designed by local architects, The Waddell Center can accommodate up to 130 guests for ceremonies, up to 250 guests for banquet-style seating, and up to 300 guests for open-house style events. Ample free parking is available on-site. Our professional event coordinators will help select the perfect menu and bar from our exclusive caterer, Distinctive Catering. We will also make your planning easier by introducing you to a variety of vendors for centerpieces, chair covers, photographers, DJs, and more. With our impeccable service and effortless style, your event will truly be an unforgettable experience.

The Harris Building

Highlights

The Harris Building, with its rich history and architectural character, is a Heartside District icon. With 18-foot, open-beamed ceilings, exposed brick walls, and natural hardwood floors, The Harris Building is the perfect backdrop for your timeless event. We strive to eliminate the unnecessary stress that comes with planning a wedding by offering allinclusive reception packages suited to your event needs. Our Premier Package includes valet, DJ, and event planning services. Your guests have a separate area to enjoy cocktail hour while we transform the ceremony space into the grand ballroom for the reception of your dreams. The Harris Building’s event team is dedicated to providing you the highest levels of service, quality, and hospitality. Let us handle the details, so you can enjoy every moment of your special day.

Studio D2D Event Venues

Highlights

Studio D2D is housed in a beautifully restored historic building, located just two exits south of downtown Grand Rapids. Our two gorgeous venues feature exposed brick walls, original hardwood flooring, immense wooden beams, and large windows that fill the space with natural light. We have preserved the integrity of the building while creating a balance of vintage charm and sophisticated elegance. Our dedicated event coordinating team loves to work with couples, families, and corporate organizations to create memorable events. If you are looking for a beautiful reception venue, highly skilled staff, exclusive access to the best vendors, and a stress-free experience, take time to meet with Studio D2D. You can be comfortable knowing we will handle all of the details and ensure that your event runs smoothly from start to finish.

Lowell Showboat VI

Highlights

Our niche at the stationary Lowell Showboat VI is small, intimate weddings and parties. Our unique space consists of three outside decks, two enclosed floors, and a pilot house that are fully climate controlled. The first and second floor can each accommodate up to 56 seated at 60-inch round tables. An elevator is available to transport guests to and from the second floor. On the third deck, there is an enclosed Pilot House offering a stunning view of the Flat River. You have the option to bring in your own food vendor or we can provide a list of local food and bar service vendors upon request. At Lowell Showboat VI, we specialize in turning your cozy event ideas into reality and ensure a memorable experience for you and your guests. Contact us today to learn more about hosting your special day at Lowell Showboat VI.

The Boardwalk

Highlights

The Boardwalk is a luxury riverfront wedding and event venue located in Southwest Michigan. The Boardwalk offers sweeping waterfront vistas, award-winning private dining, and hundreds of hidden details across five acres of natural wooded beauty. Indoor and outdoor facilities ensure every event is perfect — rain or shine. Say “I do” surrounded by peaceful nature, and party all night under the stars. Let us handle all the hard work, so you can relax and enjoy the biggest night of your life. Come see why a Boardwalk Wedding is like none other.

The Inn at Harbor Shores

Southwest Michigan, with its pristine beaches and gorgeous Lake Michigan views, is a wedding location unmatched by any other. At the Inn at Harbor Shores, we offer unique spaces for your ceremony, reception, and guest stay. Room blocks in our resort-style hotel are available for your guests with an approximately 20 percent discount below our regular rates. Our indoor space consists of our Harborview Ballroom with balcony and Waterside room for cocktail hour. We have a space on the same floor for a room to get ready. We do all of our own in-house catering and bar. Ceremonies are typically held in our Riverside Tent, located right on the harbor. We also have our Riverside Tent as an alternate space for receptions, with seating for up to 180 people. Contact email

Highlights

The Gilmore

Highlights

The Gilmore is Gilmore Catering’s newest venue. The space has been updated with a unique marriage of art deco and mid-century modern decor. The venue features several unique spaces: The Grand Luxe Ballroom, The Mercury Room, and the outdoor Garden Terrace. We are able to accommodate a variety of events for up to 500 guests, including wedding ceremonies and receptions, corporate events, holiday parties, social gatherings, birthday parties, trade shows, live performances, and more! Our team has more than 100 years of combined experience planning unforgettable events, and our culinary team is unmatched. From gourmet plated dinners to late night bites, we will customize a menu sure to satisfy the most discerning guests. New outdoor accommodations are coming soon. We can’t wait to host you!

The High Five Highlights

A unique and versatile venue located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, The High Five is an expansive, beautifully renovated loft space that exemplifies the best in “old world meets new.” Original, roller rink hardwood floors and exposed, classic brick combine with extraordinary chandeliers and hip artisan tile and glass to evoke a current and fresh vibe that your guests will remember. Details sure to attract attention include high, wood-beamed ceilings with metal tresses, large fully restored windows for viewing our city’s skyline and open, pillar-free, unobstructed space, allowing your vision to be executed easily. Our open format seats up to 300 people, and our partner vendors for catering and bar service are the best of the best. Weddings, conferences, private parties, music events — we host it all.

The Morris Estate

The Morris Estate offers something for everyone, creating a truly unforgettable wedding experience. Nestled along the St. Joseph River, the vintage Chapel provides the perfect setting for your ceremony, hidden within a breathtaking 600-acre estate. Just steps away, guests can transition seamlessly to an outdoor tented reception, ideal for celebrating under the stars with our in-house catering and full bar services. For added comfort and luxury, the estate also features elegant overnight accommodations, including a high-end bed and breakfast and private cabins. During the winter months or for more intimate gatherings, Gallery 1245 is just a short 10-minute drive from the estate. This sophisticated venue offers a cozy yet elegant ambiance with a dance floor, full-service bar, and stylish dining space. Every wedding package includes the support of a dedicated day-of coordinator to ensure your day is seamless, enjoyable, and completely stress-free.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Highlights

Weddings are nothing short of spectacular at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. With a 158-acre main campus featuring gorgeous gardens and an internationally acclaimed sculpture collection, this picturesque venue offers distinctive architectural design, elevated inhouse catering, and an award-winning professional events team to assist you. Whether you’re planning a rehearsal dinner, ceremony, or reception, guests are at the heart of all we do. Our team pulls out all the stops to ensure comfort and convenience. Along with wedding coordinating, bookings include complimentary on-site parking, tables and chairs, inclement weather backup locations, stunning photo opportunities, and access to open indoor gardens during your event. We look forward to celebrating a wedding that wows!

Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan

Looking for a unique and affordable venue for your one-of-a-kind wedding? Girl Scouts of Michigan’s nationally-recognized, state-of-the-art Kalamazoo Regional Center boasts soaring ceilings, exposed wood beams, and wide-open spaces indoors and out. The distinctive design and unique architectural details offer the perfect backdrop to make your event one of a kind — all located within two miles of downtown Kalamazoo. When you host your celebration with us, you have the freedom to choose your own vendors. Our space can accommodate up to 200 guests, and we offer flexible set-up and teardown. At the Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan Regional Center, the possibilities are endless. Best of all, proceeds from venue rentals are used to maintain our properties to help local girls and their families experience the great outdoors for generations to come! Contact email helpdesk@gshom.org

Highlights

PHOTO

Camp Newaygo

Highlights

Catering

Established in 1926, Camp Newaygo is an overnight summer camp spanning over 100 acres across four pristine lakes. Boasting a variety of lodging options, activities, and beautiful outdoor and indoor spaces, this hidden gem is ideal for destination or resort-style weddings. Conveniently located 45 minutes from Grand Rapids and Muskegon, Camp Newaygo offers weekend-long getaways. Accommodation options include rustic cabins, cottages, and hotel-style rooms. Enhance your celebration with activities like swimming, kayaking, high ropes, archery, and more. Operating year-round, the facility also caters to elopements and intimate wedding packages. On-site event staff are dedicated to ensuring that your celebration is not merely an event, but an unforgettable experience for your guests!

Central Park Place

Central Park Place is the ideal venue for your special day. Located across from Central Park in the heart of Grand Haven, our convenient location and lush surroundings provide a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor space. The Mackinaw Ballroom offers a clean palette for creating the wedding of your dreams, and the outdoor patio provides a wonderful gathering space with spectacular views. Our state-of-the-art catering kitchen allows guests to choose their caterer and beverage service company. Our facility is handicap accessible, five blocks from Grand Haven’s waterfront, and offers ample free parking. With the freedom to select your vendors, create your vision, and provide a timeless experience for your guests, Central Park Place provides the perfect backdrop to say “I do” — and build memories that will last a lifetime. Contact email cseise@grandhaven.org

Highlights

Sheraton Hotel Grand Rapids Airport

Highlights

Sheraton Grand Rapids Airport is a full-service wedding venue. You and your wedding party will find everything you need for your wedding weekend, including room blocks for out-of-town guests, rehearsal dinner space, outdoor ceremony or cocktail reception sites, and two large ballrooms. Grand Centennial Ballroom accommodates up to 250 people and Grand River Ballroom seats 150. With ample complimentary parking and an easy-to-find location on 28th Street, our 10-acre property makes us a weekend wedding destination. Your family will find plenty of gathering spaces within the hotel, and your wedding party will find places to meet for a drink or a Starbucks coffee before the ceremony. Our outdoor tiki bar and indoor/outdoor pool provide a relaxing break at the end of a long weekend.

JW Marriott Grand Rapids

Highlights

We celebrate in style. As one of the premier wedding venues in the Midwest, the JW Marriott Grand Rapids is the perfect setting for the latest chapter of your love story. Our event team provides the ultimate in luxury and personalized service to make sure your happily-ever-after begins here. With 15,000 sq. ft. of event space, celebrate in our stylish International Ballroom or intimate private event rooms. From hors d’oeuvres to desserts, indulge in our creative, couture catering. Allow us to arrange your block of newly renovated guestrooms for a seamless and luxurious accommodation experience. No matter the scale, we will help you create a joyful celebration with attentive care and an eagerness to say yes. Your wedding is a day for making promises — and we promise to make your wedding the marvelous occasion you’ve always dreamed of.

Amway Grand Plaza Hotel

Highlights

The ability to customize every detail is what sets an Amway Grand Plaza wedding apart from any other wedding. At the historic Amway Grand Plaza, a true destination located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, your wedding day is more than just an event — it’s an experience. Our “Anything Is Possible” attitude means we can make it happen, whatever it is, from intimate rehearsal dinners and breathtaking receptions for 550 guests, to a full weekend of celebration taking in the view from our tower overnight rooms and walking the city for the perfect wedding photo. Our beautiful ballrooms are paired with the oneon-one assistance of our wedding specialists to make sure every detail is perfect so you can enjoy your day, your way, from “dearly beloved” to “bon voyage.”

Bissell Tree House at John Ball Zoo

Contact email facilityrental@jbzoo.org

Separate cocktail area

Room

Outdoor reception area

Room rental fee Starting at $1,700

Deposit required 50% of rental + $500 refundable damage deposit

Kitchen on premises

Must use in-house catering

Catering price per person

Gratuity/service fee

Must use in-house liquor

On-site ceremonies

A.V. equipment available

Valet parking

Handicap accessible

Complimentary

Highlights

Nestled within the enchanting John Ball Zoo, the Bissell Tree House offers a truly magical setting for your wedding day. Exchange vows surrounded by the beauty of nature, followed by a reception in the elegantly designed tree house, where every moment becomes a cherished memory. The Bissell Tree House offers breathtaking views, floor-to-ceiling windows, adjustable lighting for the perfect ambiance, and a covered deck set for cocktails, ceremonies, and more. From a seated meal to a casual cocktail reception, one of our nine exclusive catering partners will design the menu of your dreams. Hosting your celebration at the Bissell Tree House combines fun and elegance for an unforgettable event where your money also supports wildlife conservation around the world and right here in West Michigan.

The Goei Center

Highlights

Housed in the historic Kindel Furniture building, The Goei Center hosts two of West Michigan’s premier event venues: the original Goei Center and the newly renovated Kindel Room. With exposed brick, hardwood floors, high ceilings, a koi pond, fountain, greenery throughout, soft seating areas, free on-site parking, and helpful staff, our venues have historic roots, but offer modern comfort. However, a successful event is never determined solely by the space it takes place in. That’s why we’re dedicated to offering you more on your big day. Our team of coordinators and event staff are experts in translating your dream event into reality in our venues. With access to our network of vetted caterers and vendors, you can rest easy knowing we’re bringing in the best to make your event unforgettable.

New Vintage Place

Once a historic landmark with its iconic 150-foot smokestack, this space has transformed into an unparalleled event destination. Boasting towering historical windows, original exposed brick, and openarchitecture ceilings reminiscent of America’s Gilded Age, New Vintage Place exudes a unique charm. This venue features two expansive event spaces, a stylish cocktail lounge, an outdoor amphitheater, a courtyard, and ample free on-site parking. When you say “I do” at New Vintage Place, you’ll also have a dedicated venue planner, a custom floor plan, two on-site dressing rooms, setup and teardown of tables and chairs, and a manager and event staff on-site during your event. Dare to dream big when you host your wedding at New Vintage Place. Contact

Highlights

Ballroom at Mckay

Highlights

The Ballroom at McKay is where sophistication, elegance, and tradition converge. This Downtown Grand Rapids gem, with its rich history, seamlessly blends the classic with the contemporary. Grand gestures and intricate details create a timeless venue for life’s special moments. Personalize layouts and lighting for your dream event, surrounded by high-end finishes like marble and draping, make The Ballroom at McKay a unique, classic yet modern wedding and event venue. Our on-site dressing room provides a luxurious space to prepare for your event prior to guests arriving. The rooftop offers stunning views of the city and a backdrop for one-of-a-kind photos. You’ll also have peace of mind thanks to a dedicated venue planner, manager, and event staff on-site during your event.

Riverbend Estate

Highlights

Discover the elegance of Riverbend Estate, West Michigan’s premier wedding destination. With its expansive grounds, refined architecture, and a reception space for 300+ guests, Riverbend Estate was thoughtfully designed to elevate your entire wedding experience. Add the Riverbend Mansion to your stay for on-site accommodations for the wedding party or immediate family. With beautifully appointed suites, spacious gathering areas, and peaceful surroundings, it’s the perfect setting for getting ready, relaxing, and enjoying quality time together. At Riverbend Estate, your wedding is more than just a day — it’s an experience. With on-site accommodations, luxurious amenities, and space to connect, celebrate, and unwind, the estate is designed to help you make the most of every moment.

Sherman Lake YMCA Outdoor Center

Highlights

Located near Battle Creek, Kalamazoo, and just 40 minutes from Grand Rapids, our 365-acre, year-round venue offers lodging for 288 guests and versatile event spaces. Exchange vows at our scenic Outdoor Chapel, under wisteria vines with seating for 250. For smaller gatherings, the Dogwood Site offers lakeside charm for up to 120 guests, while the Grand Oak Campfire Site creates a rustic woodland setting for 220. Celebrate in our elegant Great Hall, with wraparound windows, vaulted ceilings, and space for 250 guests. Amanda and our dedicated team will help you plan every detail, adding personalized touches that make your wedding unforgettable. From start to finish, we’re here to care for you — so you can focus on celebrating your perfect day.

Venue 19 Zero 9

Welcome to Venue 19 Zero 9, a state-of-the-art facility that bridges heritage and modern elegance. 19 Zero 9 is the premier event venue in the heart of Marshall, offering a perfect blend of historic charm and contemporary sophistication. Housed in the iconic Dreamers Furniture store building, an 1880s historical landmark, this exceptional venue is ideal for weddings, corporate events, and other special occasions. Our versatile event space features a large reception room for up to 300 seated guests, an intimate soft-seating reception area, two dressing lounges, and three stylish boutique hotel rooms, ensuring a complete and sophisticated experience. With Schuler’s legacy of service behind every detail, Venue 19 Zero 9 is the perfect setting for your unforgettable event. Contact email

Highlights

Tullymore Golf Resort

Highlights

Love gave you a fairy tale, so why not let Tullymore provide the location? Our peaceful and magnificent surroundings are the ideal backdrop to your wedding day. Our well-appointed clubhouse can accommodate parties of all sizes, and our talented team will work with you to ensure your day is flawless. The Tullymore Clubhouse features a sweeping patio with a breathtaking view, perfect for sharing a toast with your closest friends and family. Tullymore’s acclaimed culinary team specializes in creating tantalizing menus, artfully presented by our professional and courteous staff. The entire team at Tullymore will work with you to bring your vision to life. We also partner with an extensive team of trusted and preferred suppliers for other services, like flowers, photography, transportation, and more. It’s your day — let us help make it perfect.

The Silo

Highlights

A.V.

Valet

Handicap

The Silo is a full-service, year-round event venue where unforgettable moments come to life. We’re passionate about providing exceptional food, beverages, and heartfelt service — all wrapped in a setting that’s as beautiful as your love story. From your very first consultation to the final send-off, your dedicated on-site event coordinator will be there every step of the way, making the planning process smooth, simple, and stress-free. We proudly provide all food and beverage services in-house, ensuring top-tier quality and presentation. You’re welcome to bring in your own wedding cake — we are delighted to offer complimentary cake-cutting services as part of your celebration. If you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s as effortless as it is unforgettable, let The Silo bring your vision to life — with joy, grace, and attention to every detail.

Grand Traverse Resort and Spa

Deposit required 10% of venue rental + food and beverage minimum

Kitchen on premises

Must use in-house catering

Catering price per person

Must

On-site ceremonies

A.V. equipment available

Valet parking

Handicap accessible

Pets allowed for ceremonies

Lounge for bride/groom/bridal parties

Complimentary overnight stay for couple

(with conditions)

Offering memorable, on-site amenities and a trove of regional excursions, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is a premier Northern Michigan wedding destination. We are here to bring your dream wedding to life. You’ll experience a combination of personalized wedding services and unrivaled accommodations alongside the beauty and charm of Northern Michigan. The Resort is home to a diverse selection of venues — from the beach to the ballroom to the barn — as well as numerous options for creating the perfect reception meals. Our spa professionals help you relax with lavish spa treatments and perfectlystyled hair and makeup. Or choose to enjoy a pre-wedding round of golf on one of our three championship golf courses, a friendly game of tennis, or relaxing whirlpool. Grand Traverse Resort and Spa has earned a national reputation as a premier wedding destination, not only because of our on-site amenities, but also because of our team’s expertise.

French Valley Vineyard

Highlights

Located just minutes from Lake Michigan, The Barn at French Valley Vineyard is nestled among the grapes and cherry trees on 70 sprawling acres in the heart of Leelanau County. Set back from the road, The Barn at French Valley Vineyard feels remote and private, yet it’s just minutes from Traverse City, Leland, Suttons Bay, and the Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore. Our fully restored, Amish-built centennial barn is idyllic and charming with seemingly endless 180-degree views of the rolling hills of French Valley and beyond from expansive second-story windows. Our newly renovated tasting room is located adjacent to The Barn and boasts an eclectic French-Industrial flare and spacious patio. With our unique fusion of location, hospitality, and world-class wines, The Barn at French Valley offers a stunning setting for your wedding or special event.

The Homestead

Highlights

Room rental

Deposit required

Kitchen on premises

Must use in-house catering

Catering price per person

Gratuity/service fee

Must use in-house liquor

On-site ceremonies

A.V. equipment available

Valet parking

Handicap

Pets

Varies, please call

Varies, please call

Varies, please call

Varies, please call

The Homestead is a luxurious beachfront resort perfect for romantic getaways and dream weddings. We’ve created three stylish sites for weddings and receptions. In settings as fresh as a flower, they meld the beauty of Leelanau and the majesty of Lake Michigan. Choose one — views will beguile, flavors will swirl, and wines will sparkle. Laughter will meld with the sounds of the water. And memories, wonderful memories, will be made. The venues differ, the experience doesn’t. Each is uniquely beautiful. Each is equipped and staffed to provide exceptional service. Each is wonderfully convenient as the beaches, recreational facilities, restaurants, inns and lodges are all within walking distance. So you and your guests will be relaxed and comfortable. And your day — your unique day, your perfect day — will be made.

Manistee National Golf & Resort

Highlights

Manistee National is the ideal venue for weddings, rehearsal dinners, and bridal showers. Whether you’re envisioning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, our resort is fully equipped to make your event unforgettable. Weddings are hosted in our newly upgraded sailcloth tent which can accommodate up to 200 guests. What truly sets us apart is our unmatched personal service. Our experienced and professional staff is dedicated to turning your vision into reality, offering expert guidance from the initial planning stages through the final moments of your event. From start to finish, your satisfaction is our top priority. Let us help you create a one-of-a-kind experience at Manistee National.

Hana Abboud

313.900.1783

650 N. Telegraph Road, Dearborn, MI 48128 hanaabboud.com

hello@hanaabboud.com

Spring Sweet

616.303.3013

56 East 8th St., Holland, MI 49423 springsweet.com bride@springsweet.com

Bridal designer Hana Abboud is renowned for her exquisite designs and attention to detail. She is passionate about creating unique and elegant bridal gowns and has become a leading figure in Michigan’s wedding industry. Her designs are known for their timeless beauty, intricate craftsmanship, and ability to capture each bride’s style. She specializes in creating couture gowns at an affordable price and is known for her modest dresses. Whether designing for a classic, modern, or couture aesthetic, Hana Abboud offers complete customization on both predesigned gowns and custom designs. The cost of each gown includes a custom veil and custom bodice sizing. All appointments are private, with an option for an upgraded appointment.

For

SERVING: Southeast Michigan hanaabboud.com

Southeast Michigan + West Michigan + Mid Michigan + Northern Michigan springsweet.com

Both modern and timeless, Spring Sweet Bride is a curated collection of gowns inspired by our love of romance, details, and gorgeous silhouettes. Our appointments, led by our extraordinary stylists, are an unforgettable bridal experience. They are private, laidback, and sure to be one of your favorite parts of wedding planning. We want you to feel beautiful, effortless and celebrated. Our passion is finding you the dress of your dreams! Spring Sweet is for the bride who wants to be herself. Be modern, be playful. Be romantic or edgy. There are no rules.

For additional information scan here to visit our page on nearlywed.com

SERVING:

Becker’s Bridal

989.593.2595

155 S. Main St., Fowler, MI 48835 beckersbridal.com care@beckersbridal.com

For additional information scan here to visit our page on

Tucked away in the heart of Michigan, Becker’s Bridal is one of the nation’s oldest family-owned bridal stores. We have been creating magical moments since 1934 within our historic flagship salon, with gowns starting around $1,200. Our new LUXE division offers an unparalleled, totally private, luxury experience with couture gowns priced from $3,500 to $12,000+. Discover nearly 3,000 gowns in sizes 2 to 32 and experience the enchantment of our “Magic Room,” featured in Jeffrey Zaslow’s bestselling book, The Magic Room. Celebrate in style in our exclusive bridal lounge, The Phoenix. With more than 100,000 brides served, our expert team ensures you feel as beautiful as you look. At Becker’s, you walk in as a friend and leave as family.

Great Lakes Wedding Gown Specialists

983 Butternut Drive, Holland | 616.399.2793

11276 E. Lakewood Blvd., Holland | 616.396.6855 greatlakesclothingcare.com info@greatlakesclothingcare.com

SERVING: West Michigan

Trust your wedding gown and other special garments to a specialist. As wedding gown specialists since 2006, we combine a love for textiles and their history with experience in both the bridal and dry cleaning industries. From cleaning and preserving to vintage gown restoration and restyling, Great Lakes WGS gives your treasured gown the care it deserves. We offer museum-quality packages for brides who want to keep their gowns for the next generation and a resale package for brides who want to consign their gown. We also offer alteration services on wedding gowns, formal, cocktail, and special occasion dresses.

WEDDING

Wed Company Wedding Wear

616.647.7826

11276 E Lakewood Blvd, Holland, MI 49424 wedcompanygr.com shop@wedcompanygr.com

SERVING: Southeast Michigan + West Michigan + Mid Michigan + Northern Michigan

Wed Co. Wedding Wear is a micro-boutique in Holland, Michigan offering a refreshingly inclusive and design-forward approach to wedding style. From restored vintage gowns to custom outfits for nearlyweds of all genders, we specialize in helping you feel fully yourself on your wedding day. With a curated collection, thoughtful tailoring, and hand-finished details — including veils and accessories — Wed Co. is where modern love meets timeless style. Whether it’s embracing bold colors or unique styles, we believe your wedding dress should be as unique as your love story. Gowns are available from $300 to $3,000, with most under $1,600. Your perfect dress awaits at Wed Company Wedding Wear!

For additional information scan here to visit our page on nearlywed.com

greatlakesclothingcare.com

Bunny Tuxedos and Suits

616.538.1760

3956 30th St. SW, Grandville, MI 49418 bunnytuxedos.com customerservice@bunnytuxedos.com

SERVING: West Michigan

For additional information scan here to visit our page on nearlywed.com

Family-owned and operated for more than 70 years, Bunny Tuxedos takes pride in providing excellent service for our customers and top quality men’s formal wear. Conveniently located in downtown Grandville, we offer in-house inventory, allowing you to see current trends in person before making your selection. Each year we introduce new styles to compliment our current variety of modern, slim, and classic fits for men, children, and big/tall sizes. With more than 600 color combinations in our vest and tie collections and more than 70 different styles of tuxedos and suits, we are sure to find just the right style for your special event. Serving West Michigan and many small businesses in the state, make Bunny Tuxedo your choice in men’s formal wear needs.

bunnytuxedos.com

Todd’s Menswear

248.865.9963

520 W. 11 Mile Road, Royal Oak, MI 48067 toddsmenswear.com todds@toddsmenswear.com

SERVING: Southeast Michigan + West Michigan + Mid Michigan + Northern Michigan + Outside Michigan For additional information scan here to visit our page on nearlywed.com

Love, Love, Love, working with Todd’s! Todd’s is hands down the best value in menswear, and we make it easy! Rental stores charge $250 a night to borrow used clothing. Own it forever at Todd’s for just $129.99! That’s the suit coat, pant, dress shirt, tie and pocket square or tuxedo coat, tuxedo pant, tuxedo shirt, bowtie and cummerbund, cufflinks and studs — all pre-tariff pricing. And since we carry thousands of suits in stock, walk-in, suit up, and walk-out. No waiting! How can we do it? Ninety three years in business gives us insider connections. Family owned so no Wall Street pressure. Low overhead, low markups and most important, we know if we take good care of you, we’ll see you back for years to come. Hundreds of glowing reviews, 4.8 star rating, thousands of happy grooms and groomsmen!

toddsmenswear.com

The Wedding Shoppe

248.541.1988

2186 Coolidge Highway, Berkley, MI 48072 theweddingshoppe.net info@theweddingshoppe.net

SERVING: Southeast Michigan

For additional information scan here to visit our page on nearlywed.com

The Wedding Shoppe is a bridal haven like no other. What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to making each bride’s journey extraordinary. From affordable elegance to luxurious couture, our diverse collection of handpicked gowns caters to every bride’s vision. Our experienced team ensures that every detail is perfect. But what truly makes us special is our dedication to celebrating love stories. Your wedding dress should reflect your individuality and the story you’re creating. We’re here to be part of your unforgettable journey, helping you find the dress that embodies your love story. It’s not just about the gown; it’s about the experience, the memories, and the magic that happens when you say “yes” to your forever dress with us.

theweddingshoppe.net

The BlueJay Hotel + Events

616.622.2112

644 Bridge St. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504 thebluejaygr.com info@thebluejaygr.com

SERVING: West Michigan + Outside Michigan For additional information scan here to visit our page on nearlywed.com

Discover The BlueJay, Grand Rapids’ unique event venue with on-site hotel suites. Elevate your celebration in our one-of-a-kind space, nestled in the vibrant Bridge Street Entertainment District. The BlueJay offers full rental of our upscale contemporary space, including a versatile 1,800-square-foot venue and lounge, a charming courtyard with games and a fire pit, and the unparalleled convenience of five private King Suites upstairs. The BlueJay offers a truly distinctive and memorable experience for you and your guests and is perfect for bridal parties wanting to stay together, intimate wedding weekends, and unforgettable celebrations.

thebluejaygr.com

Events by Ludemas

616.452.2961

3408 Eastern Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508 ludemas.com/weddings aludema@ludemas.com

SERVING:

Let Events by Ludemas customize your wedding flowers to fit your style, color palette, and budget. Our team includes artists, certified florists, and event planners with decades of experience. Our goal is to take the pressure off of you on your wedding day — leave your decor to us! From beautiful blossoms to rental items to great relationships with local vendors, we are ready to make your wedding day dreams come true. Our services include delivering your wedding flowers to your desired location, setting up your ceremony and reception sites, transporting your flowers between locations, and tearing down when the day is over. Our teams will travel to your destination of choice throughout Michigan and beyond. Request a consultation and let us show you how we can complete your big day.

PHOTOS BY KELLY SWEET PHOTOGRAPHY

Eastern Floral

616.949.2200

2836 Broadmoor Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512 easternfloralweddings.com weddings@easternfloral.com

At Eastern Floral, we create events that are visually stunning, no matter the scope, style, or budget. Eastern Floral is proud to celebrate love, in all its forms. As the leading florist in Grand Rapids and West Michigan, it is our mission to take your vision and create an authentic, customized experience that will be unforgettable for everyone involved. We have been helping create captivating weddings and corporate events for almost 75 years. Our floral designers regularly attend seminars, conventions, and continuing education in order to stay current with the latest floral trends and floral design techniques. We offer the perfect combination of cutting-edge knowledge, longstanding experience, and personalized customer service.

For additional information scan here to visit our page on nearlywed.com

SERVING: West Michigan

Olive Branch Studios

239.994.1646

2830 Winkler Ave, Suite 104a Fort Myers, FL 33916 contact@theolivebranchstudios.com

SERVING:

For additional information scan here to visit our page on nearlywed.com

At Olive Branch Studios, our mission is to transform the beauty of life’s most significant moments into lasting keepsakes through skilled floral preservation. We provide personalized, high-quality services that capture and celebrate memories from weddings, special occasions, or everyday milestones. By combining thoughtful craftsmanship with heartfelt care, we create timeless pieces of art that preserve the essence of each unique story. We go beyond basic preservation with our specialized color correction process. This technique restores the natural vibrancy of your flowers, ensuring they look just as stunning as they did on your special day. While many companies simply press and preserve wedding bouquets, we take the extra step to maintain the true beauty of your blooms. We make your preserved wedding flowers last and reflect the vibrant colors of your cherished memories.

Wink Boudoir

734.564.4866

607 S. Main St., Level 2, Plymouth, MI 48170 winkboudoir.com hello@winkboudoir.com

SERVING: Southeast Michigan + West Michigan + Mid Michigan + Northern Michigan For additional information scan here to visit our page on nearlywed.com

Wink Boudoir is a luxury photography studio in Downtown Plymouth, Mich., dedicated to celebrating brides in one of the most exciting chapters of their lives. Designed with modern brides in mind, our studio offers two stunning settings — soft, romantic light or rich, moody tones — so you can fully express your unique style. Whether you’re gifting your soon-to-be spouse or simply honoring your own journey, Wink captures you at your most confident and beautiful. What sets Wink apart is not just the stunning images we create but the unique bond established with each client. Our welcoming atmosphere ensures that every bride feels at ease, making the experience unlike any other. Every bride deserves to feel empowered, radiant, and unforgettable — and we’re here to make sure you do.

winkboudoir.com

Samantha James Photography

Wayland, MI

samanthajamesphoto.com

hello@samanthajamesphoto.com

Samantha James Photography is a professional photography studio located in Grand Rapids. Specializing in fresh, beautiful wedding photography, my team and I are available to travel worldwide as destination wedding photographers. Our clients believe life is worth celebrating and love is worth documenting. I have been a luxury wedding photographer living in Michigan for the past 15 years. As a wife and mom to three kids, the gravity of my job as a photographer is not lost on me. Documenting people’s love stories is one of the highest honors of my life. It’s a responsibility I handle with great care and passion, and it’s my privilege to to be invited to capture your most precious memories!

For additional information scan here to visit our page on nearlywed.com

Special Occasions Event Rental & Design

616.826.7082

810.603.1380

Special Occasions is more than a rental company — from concept to execution, we help you build a beautiful event as professional design partners. Our outstanding variety of unique products are sure to elevate your event to new heights. Not only is our inventory extensive, but every item we own is treated with the utmost care, ensuring they are in top condition for every event. With more than 20 years of experience, we’re proud to be a leading staple in Michigan’s event industry. We provide expert intel, quality products, and above-and-beyond customer service with exceptional attention to detail. At the core of all we do is the passion to curate incredible events for our wonderful clients. We look forward to working with you for your next special occasion!

For additional information scan here to visit our page on nearlywed.com

SERVING: Southeast Michigan + West Michigan + Mid Michigan + Northern Michigan

Alpine Events

616.396.7300 | Grand Rapids + Holland

734.418.2700 | Ann Arbor alpineevents.com info@alpineevents.com

At Alpine Events, our team’s number one focus is to provide you with everything you need for your wedding or backyard celebration. When you call, we answer and put our proven process with event rentals, vendor coordination, set-up, and logistics to work for you. We offer a huge selection of tents, tables, chairs, linens, lighting, furniture, table settings, and more. Don’t be overwhelmed with all the details of event planning — our team can guide you through all the choices and match you with the perfect rentals for your theme and venue. Our white-glove service handles everything from seating and linen placement to lighting, sashes, and any napkin fold you throw at us. With our experience and dedication to customer service, we guarantee you’ll have an unforgettable event.

TC Tented Events

231.486.5307

2300 W. South Airport Road Traverse City, MI 49684 tctentedevents.com sales@tctentedevents.com

SERVING: Mid Michigan + Northern Michigan For additional information scan here to visit our page on nearlywed.com

At TC Tented Events, we believe that every event deserves a perfect setting. Our extensive selection of tents, decor, and party rentals ensures you can find the right fit for your vision. Whether you’re looking for an elegant canopy for a wedding, a spacious tent for a festival or party, or decor to accent your vision, our dedicated team is passionate and committed to making your planning process seamless and stress-free. We offer expert guidance on tent selection, layout design, and decor options, working closely with you to bring your vision to life. With our attention to detail and commitment to excellence, you can trust us to cover every detail and create an unforgettable atmosphere for you and your guests.

tctentedevents.com

Applause Catering + Events

616.940.0001

3755 Broadmoor Ave. SE, Suite C, Grand Rapids, MI 49512 applause-catering.net thaaksma@applause-catering.net smcintyre@applause-catering.net

SERVING: West Michigan

For additional information scan here to visit our page on nearlywed.com

At Applause Catering + Events, our goal is to provide you with a one-of-a-kind experience that leaves a smile on your face through our warm customer service, custom-made menus, delightful culinary treats, access to stunning partner venues, creative table presentations, and VIP treatment for all guests and clients. Applause is a full-service catering and event design company with an unrivaled list of services. Focusing on the details delivers that special element that makes your event sparkle, and we have the flexibility to handle your unique requests. At Applause, we work closely with you to create a magical, memorable experience on your wedding day.

applause-catering.net

Distinctive Catering

616.538.4384

4945 Division Ave. S, Grand Rapids, MI 49548 distinctivecatering.com cateringinfo@distinctivecatering.com

SERVING: West Michigan + Mid Michigan

For additional information scan here to visit our page on nearlywed.com

Established in 1995, Distinctive Catering is one of West Michigan’s premier caterers. Our goal has always been to provide our guests with quality food and outstanding service. Distinctive Catering is the exclusive catering service provider at the Waddell Center, Historic Bowen Mills, the Harris Building, and more than 100 partner venues throughout West, Southwest, and Mid Michigan. We offer a variety of barbeque choices as well as elegant full-service menus — including china and linens. We also provide professional bar services to help with your planning needs. Our experienced and professional chefs and staff will handle everything, so you and your guests can relax and enjoy your special day. With our impeccable service, delectable food, and effortless style, your event will truly become an unforgettable experience.

Distinctive Bar Services

616.538.4384

4945 Division Ave. S, Grand Rapids, MI 49548 distinctivecatering.com/bar-services cateringinfo@distinctivecatering.com

SERVING: West Michigan + Mid-Michigan

For additional information scan here to visit our page on nearlywed.com

Our off-premise Bar Service Packages may be used in conjunction with our award-winning food catering or as a standalone service. We offer five all-inclusive packages in addition to plenty of customization options, including special order products, signature drinks, and more for a flat price per person! Our fully-trained, TIPS-certified bartenders will travel anywhere in West, Southwest, or Central Michigan to serve your guests in a professional and hospitable manner. We can utilize your venue’s built-in bar, or even build a bar of our own. We will work with you and customize your package to suit your needs perfectly! To book our bar services or see a quote, contact our bar coordinator today!

distinctivecatering.com/bar-services

Gilmore Catering

616.356.2627

20 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 gilmore-catering.com ashea@gilmorecatering.com

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For additional information scan here to visit our page on nearlywed.com

Voted Caterer Of The Year for 2024, Gilmore Catering is West Michigan’s premier caterer and event planning expert. With more than 40 years of experience, we have hosted and catered weddings of all sizes and styles, from metropolitan extravaganzas to lakeside romance and everything in between. Our commitment to inclusivity extends to all types of weddings, including traditional, modern, and LGBT celebrations. Our devoted team includes seasoned event specialists and culinary virtuosos — all driven by a profound passion for hospitality. We pride ourselves on our flexibility, offering tailored solutions that cater to your unique preferences. Whether you have specific dietary requirements or special requests, our team will craft a menu that accommodates your needs. We believe that every wedding is unique, and we are dedicated to making yours an unforgettable experience. We cater with character!

gilmore-catering.com

KJ Catering

616.805.4590

1808 Monroe Ave., Suite B, Grand Rapids, MI 49505 kjcatering.net info@kjcatering.net

Food connects people, nourishes souls, and inspires ideas. It’s that passion for food in all its glory that fuels our search for the freshest ingredients, drives our creation of seasonal menus, and provides our clients with outstanding culinary experiences. At KJ Catering, food is the art of combining ingredients to create a masterpiece, something that you experience through ALL of your senses. From the most basic dishes to the extreme dishes, fresh ingredients from local sources are key. We support local farmers and other local companies to provide an exceptional culinary experience. Each menu is unique, different, and challenges our team to reach new heights and push ourselves to provide great food and a great experience for you and your guests.

Clique Coffee Catering Co.

616.202.6250

2221 Plainfield Ave. NE, Suite 115, Grand Rapids, MI 49505 cliquecatering.com info@cliquecatering.com

Most weddings have coffee, but not many have a coffee experience That’s what Clique brings to your special day. The difference is personal attention to you with handcrafted, made-to-order drinks your guests will love and service no one will forget. We create a custom menu for every wedding, but there are other ways to personalize your event. For an additional charge, we can create custom cups and signage for the ultimate branding experience for your wedding day. At Clique, our philosophy centers around the belief that coffee is more than just a beverage — it’s a catalyst for connection. We aim to make each event a memorable experience through our commitment to quality, community, and connection.

For additional information scan here to visit our page on nearlywed.com

SERVING: West Michigan + Mid Michigan

SERVING: Southeast Michigan + West Michigan + Mid Michigan + Northern Michigan

Bowerman’s on 8th

616.738.3099

2 E. 8th Street, Holland, MI 49423 realblueberries.com/catering bowermanson8thcatering@gmail.com

Bowerman’s on 8th Bakery and Café is a locally owned restaurant, bakery, and retail store featuring the blueberries grown on our farm in Holland, Mich. Bowerman’s on 8th specializes in elevated comfort food that helps everyone feel welcome at the table. Our team is passionate about hospitality and would be honored to assist you in creating lasting memories. For weddings, we specialize in dessert bars — select your favorite bakery treats or specialty desserts and let us take care of the rest! We curate a menu that fits each event’s unique needs. We may be famous for our blueberry donuts, but we have so much more to offer. From pastries, cupcakes, cheesecakes, and pies to breakfast, lunch, and charcuterie, our team is excited to serve you and your guests.

For additional information scan here to visit our page on nearlywed.com

Travel Focus!

TRAVEL FOCUS! is a Preferred Sandals & Beaches Agency. With years of extensive travel experience, first-hand knowledge of destinations, and strong relationships with preferred resorts, TRAVEL FOCUS! will custom design an unparalleled destination wedding and honeymoon experience. Discover a white sand beach or tropical garden where your every whim is catered to with the highest level of service and luxury at a superior value. We serve all 50 U.S. states. To plan a destination wedding, honeymoon, family reunion, corporate incentive travel, or a well-deserved vacation, contact us today and let us help you find your perfect paradise.

For additional information scan here to visit our page on nearlywed.com travelfocus.biz

Pamela Obermiller, Platinum Level Certified Sandals & Beaches Specialist (CSS) 269.385.2531 | pam@travelfocus.biz

Misty Olson, Silver Level Certified Sandals & Beaches Specialist (CSS) 269.385.2548 | misty@travelfocus.biz

SERVING: Southeast Michigan + West Michigan + Mid Michigan + Northern Michigan

Centre for Pure Skin

616.454.1256

2060 East Paris Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 centreforpureskin.com juliaw@gr-cps.com

SERVING: Southeast Michigan + West Michigan + Mid Michigan + Northern Michigan

For additional information scan here to visit our page on nearlywed.com

Our team of skilled aestheticians and injection specialists are passionate about helping patients like you. Located in Grand Rapids, our experts boast a unique blend of education and experience to provide top-notch care. Our connection to our sister practice, Centre for Plastic Surgery, sets us apart from all the rest. As a patient of Pure Skin, you’ll have access to our board-certified plastic surgeons, ensuring comprehensive and exceptional care. We treat everything — acne and breakouts, sun damage, aging skin, scars, skin discoloration, cellulite, and more. Whether you’re looking to enhance your face, body, or both, we are dedicated to working with you to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your goals and designed to bring out your best features, just in time for your big day!

Design 1 Salon Spa

616.301.1400 Four West Michigan Locations design1.com online@design1.com

SERVING: Southeast Michigan + West Michigan + Mid Michigan + Northern Michigan For additional information scan here to visit our page on nearlywed.com

Design 1 Salon Spa is where bridal dreams come true. We offer exceptional bridal services that will make you look and feel radiant on your special day. Our comprehensive range of beauty treatments includes flawless makeup, hair services, facials, massages, and nail care. We’re your one-stop destination for pre-wedding pampering. What sets us apart is our personalized care and attention from the start. Our highly skilled team helps you book your appointments and works closely with you to bring your bridal vision to life. From classic updos to modern twists, we create hairstyles that complement your gown and style. Choose Design 1 Salon Spa for your wedding and discover the difference. Let our team bring out your natural beauty, enhance your unique style, and make your bridal dreams come true.

Skin CoLAB

616.450.1562

460 Ada Drive SE, Suite 140, Ada, MI 49301 skincolab.com info@skincolab.com

SERVING: Southeast Michigan +

+

For additional information scan here to visit our page on nearlywed.com

Skin CoLAB located in Downtown Ada provides luxury aesthetics for the glow that lasts beyond “I do.” Entrust your bridal glow to the most capable of hands. Known for a luxurious approach to aesthetics, Skin CoLAB specializes in personalized skincare regimens, rejuvenating treatments, aesthetic injections, and advanced laser services — all designed to help brides, bridal parties, and mothers of the bride look and feel radiant. With a focus on natural beauty, clinical precision, and elevated care, Skin CoLAB creates results that last. Begin your bridal journey with Skin CoLAB — where luxury meets results.

skincolab.com

wedding resources

Photo by Nathan English Photography

wedding checklist

Six to twelve months in advance

set your date

set your budget

compile your guest list; gather addresses

select your attendants

reserve your ceremony and reception sites

order your dress/tuxedo and accessories

book your officiant

book your caterer

book your florist

go cake tasting—and order your cake!

book your photographer, videographer, and photo booth

book your entertainment for ceremony and reception

send your save-the-dates

Four to six months in advance

reserve rental equipment

arrange transportation and valet for wedding day

order invitations and thank you notes

register for gifts

purchase wedding rings

purchase or reserve groom’s attire

select attendants’ attire

select favors, if necessary

reserve room for wedding night

reserve hotel rooms for out-of-town guests

select gifts for wedding party

One to two months in advance

mail your invitations

contact local newspapers about wedding announcements

prepare name change documents, if necessary

have programs printed

buy guest book

obtain marriage license

notify post office of change of address, if necessary

do your trial run for both hair and makeup

Two weeks in advance

notify caterer of guest count

begin seating plan

write place cards

have final dress fitting with accessories

address announcements

write toasts for rehearsal dinner and reception

designate someone to look after your home during your honeymoon

break in your wedding shoes outdoors

break in your wedding shoes outdoors

get your hair cut and colored, get facial and body treatments

remind fiancé to get hair cut!

One week in advance

finalize seating arrangements

pick up dress/tuxedo

confirm details and guest count with caterer

sign up for dance lessons

sign up for dance lessons

write thank you notes as gifts arrive

plan and book honeymoon; obtain passports for all international travel

book hair, makeup, and all other beauty appointments

Two to four months in advance

write your wedding vows, if you choose

discuss details of service with officiant

discuss details of the menu with caterer

work with ice sculptor on design and place order for ice sculpture

select readings for ceremony

schedule rehearsal time

book rehearsal dinner location

collect images of favorite hair and makeup looks for your stylists

schedule consultation to begin teeth whitening or cosmetic enhancements

confirm honeymoon arrangements

pack for wedding night

pack for honeymoon

schedule all hair removal services and massage

schedule all hair removal services and massage for three days before wedding

Day before

give announcements to attendant for mailing after the wedding

confirm transportation arrangements for ceremony and reception

get manicure and pedicure

exfoliate your skin for smooth makeup application; wash hair for next day

Your

wedding day

eat a decent breakfast!

get hair styled and makeup applied; wear a button-down shirt!

take it all in and enjoy yourselves!

Ceremony + Reception

You’re Finally Married!

So, how do you change your name?

Wondering how to change your name after the wedding? Ready to start ordering ALL the things with your new monogram? The following step-by-step guide is intended to help you navigate getting your name changed here in Michigan. Our goal is for you to have this over and done with for good once you finish this list.

1PURCHASE CERTIFIED COPIES OF YOUR MARRIAGE LICENSE IN ADVANCE

These documents are the most important part; so important that you can’t move on to step two without them. Do this when you go to apply for your license.

2UPDATE YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY CARD

You can either apply for a new social security card by mail or in person at your local Social Security office. If you plan on going to the Social Security office in person, you can save yourself some time by filling out an application

online for a social security card in advance. While on their website, be sure to find out what documents you will need to bring with you.

3GET YOUR NEW DRIVER’S LICENSE

Updating your driver’s license with a new name must be done in person. In Michigan, you will need to have your name updated on your license and take a new photograph, as well as pay the renewal fee. Michigan’s Secretary of State offices accept appointments; you can make yours online. While you are on the site making your appointment, be sure to see which documents you will need to bring with you.

4GET A NEW PASSPORT + TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

Changing your name on your passport is considered a correction. If your passport was issued less than a year ago, you’ll be able to have the correction made without paying a fee. However, if you’ve had your current passport for a year or more, there will be a fee. While all passport changes must be applied for by mail, the U.S. Department of State has a convenient tool on their website that will help you fill out the change form. While you are on the site, be sure to see which documents you will need to send to the National Passport Processing Center.

5CHANGE THE NAME ON YOUR BANK ACCOUNTS

As soon as your identification has been updated with your new name, head to your local bank branch to update the information on your bank accounts. Note that most banks require that these changes be made in person. We recommend you call ahead to see which documents you will need to bring with you.

6CHANGE THE NAME ON YOUR CREDIT CARDS

The process for changing your name on your credit cards will vary by institution. Call your credit card company directly to see what their procedures are. You can usually find the customer service number on the back of your credit card.

7PROVIDE YOUR NEW NAME AND BANKING INFORMATION TO YOUR EMPLOYER

Now that your ID and bank accounts match, contact your company’s Human Resources office or payroll processor to provide your new information as soon as possible. This way your checks will be issued with the correct name, and direct deposits will be processed correctly and — most important — swiftly!

PHOTO BY MIKAYLA JEAN & CO.

8UPDATE YOUR INSURANCE INFORMATION

Whether you’re combining insurance policies or are simply updating the information on your own policy, this is a major change you need to make as soon as possible to ensure you’re covered in the event of a claim. You will need a copy of your marriage license to move this along.

If you’re insured through your employer, go through human resources or the insurance representative to find the appropriate forms and contact information.

Planning to combine your coverage? Make these changes all at once. Marriage is considered a major life event, so you also have the opportunity to change your health care coverage — even if it isn’t an enrollment period. For auto and home insurance, adding an additional vehicle or a new home to your policy could result in some great savings if you combine multiple policies with the same company.

9UPDATE YOUR MORTGAGE, RENT, AND UTILITY COMPANIES

With your new name and new payment information in hand, it’s time to update the payment information for your mortgage or rent, and your utility companies. Most can be easily updated online in your account portal or on the phone, and should be as simple as typing in your new last name and entering your new credit card number or bank routing information.

10REVIEW YOUR CREDIT + DEBIT CARD STATEMENTS FOR

AUTO-PAY

ACCOUNTS

From Netflix and HBO to the hosting for your blog, we’ve all got smaller automatic payments that happen monthly that we can sometimes forget about. Look through a couple months of statements on all of your cards and accounts, keeping an eye out for payments that you’re making automatically. Log in to those accounts to make the change, then input your new credit card or banking information and update your billing information with your new name.

Scan here to see an in-depth version of this resource on our website with links to all of the necessary documents and resources for each step.

It’s happening! time to get your marriage license!

If you’re at this step, then you’re getting married REALLY soon — within 33 days to be exact, since that’s how long you’ll have once you apply for your marriage license! Here’s a step-by-step guide for getting your marriage license in the state of Michigan:

1SET DATE

Make sure you know your date before applying!

2 APPLY

You can apply online or in person. Contact information for every county clerk’s office in Michigan can be found by scanning the QR code below.

3 SECURITY NUMBERS

SOCIAL

You will need to provide social security numbers for both applicants. Applicants without a social security number must provide a legal explanation in person at the county clerk’s office.

4 PROOF OF AGE

Government-issued birth certificates and current driver’s licenses or state IDs (copies sufficient) are required for both applicants. Documents must be in English.

5 RESIDENCE

At least one applicant must be a resident of the county in which you are to be married. If both parties are from out of state, but getting married in Michigan, they must apply for their license in the county where their ceremony will take place. Proof of address is required with either a valid driver’s license or state ID.

6 FEE

The fee is $20 for Michigan residents and $30 for out-of-state applicants.

7 PICK UP

License must be picked up in person — with all required documents — at the county clerk’s office no sooner than 3 days after submitting your application.

Scan here to see this resource on our website with all of the contact information for every county in Michigan linked directly!

Alpine Events 171

alpineevents.com | Rentals + Decor

Ann Arbor — 734.418.2700 Grand Rapids — 616.396.7300

Amway Grand Plaza Hotel 145

amwaygrand.com | Venues

616.774.2000

187 Monroe Ave. NW Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Applause Catering + Events 173

applause-catering.net | Food + Beverage Catering

616.940.0001

3755 Broadmoor Ave. SE, Suite C Grand Rapids, MI 49512

The Ballroom@ CityFlatsHotel 126 cityflatshotel.com | Venues

616.608.1727

83 Monroe Center St. NW Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Ballroom at McKay 149

ryevenues.com/ballroom-at-mckay | Venues

616.951.1078

146 Monroe Center St. NW Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Bay Pointe 129

baypointeinn.com | Venues

269.672.8111

11456 Marsh Road

Shelbyville, MI 49344

Becker’s Bridal

beckersbridal.com | Wedding Fashion

989.593.2595

155 S. Main St. Fowler, MI 48835

Bissell Tree House at John Ball Zoo 146 jbzoo.org | Venues

616.336.4314

1300 Fulton St. W Grand Rapids, MI 49504

The BlueJay Hotel + Events

thebluejaygr.com | Accommodations

616.622.2112

644 Bridge St. NW Grand Rapids, MI 49504

The Boardwalk

riverboardwalk.com | Venues

269.285.1112

1100 Diller Road

Benton Harbor, MI 49022

Bowerman’s on 8th 178 realblueberries.com/catering | Cakes + Desserts

616.738.3099

2 E. 8th St. Holland, MI 49423

Bunny Tuxedos and Suits 162

bunnytuxedos.com | Wedding Fashion

616.538.1760

3956 30th St. SW Grandville, MI 49418

Camp Newaygo 141

campnewaygo.org | Venues

231.652.1184

5333 S. Centerline Road Newaygo, MI 49337

Central Park Place

centralparkplace.org/cpp-weddings | Venues

616.842.2550

421 Columbus Ave. Grand Haven, MI 49417

Centre for Pure Skin

centreforpureskin.com | Health, Beauty + Grooming

616.454.1256

2060 East Paris Ave. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546

Clique Coffee Catering Co.

cliquecatering.com | Food + Beverage Catering

616.202.6250

2221 Plainfield Ave. NE, Suite 115

Grand Rapids, MI 49505

142

Design 1 Salon Spa

design1.com | Health, Beauty + Grooming

616.301.1400

Four West Michigan locations

Distinctive Bar Services

distinctivecatering.com | Food + Beverage Catering

616.538.4384

4945 Division Ave. S Grand Rapids, MI 49548

Distinctive Catering

distinctivecatering.com | Food + Beverage Catering

616.538.4384

4945 Division Ave. S Grand Rapids, MI 49548

District 5 Schoolhouse

schoolhouse5.com | Venues

616.560.1635

9354 Port Sheldon St. Zeeland, MI 49464

Eastern Floral

easternfloralweddings.com | Floral

616.949.2200

2836 Broadmoor Ave. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49512

Events by Ludemas

ludemas.com/weddings | Floral

616.452.2961

3408 Eastern Ave. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49508

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park 139

meijergardens.org | Venues

616.975.3146

1000 E. Beltline Ave. NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525

French Valley Vineyard

fvvineyard.com | Venues

231.228.2618

3655 S. French Road Cedar, MI 49621

The Gilmore

thegilmoregr.com | Venues

616.426.2693

5179 W. River Dr. NE Comstock Park, MI 49321

Gilmore Catering

gilmore-catering.com | Food + Beverage Catering

616.356.2627

20 Monroe Ave. NW Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan

140 gshom.org | Venues

800.497.2688

601 W. Maple St. Kalamazoo, MI 49008

The Goei Center

147 thegoeicenter.com | Venues

616.949.2421

818 Butterworth Street SW Grand Rapids, MI 49504

Grand Rapids Downtown Market

128 downtownmarketgr.com | Venues

616.805.5308

435 Ionia Ave. SW Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Grand Traverse Resort and Spa

155 grandtraverseresort.com | Venues

231.534.6000

100 Grand Traverse Village Blvd. Acme, MI 49610

Great Lakes Wedding Gown Specialists 161 greatlakesclothingcare.com | Wedding Fashion

Butternut Drive — 616.399.2793

E. Lakewood Blvd. — 616.396.6855 Holland, MI 49424

Hana Abboud

hanaabboud.com | Wedding Fashion

313.900.1783

650 N. Telegraph Road Dearborn, MI 48128

159

The Harris Building

theharrisbuilding.com | Venues

616.256.2535

111 Division Ave. S Grand Rapids, MI 49503

The High Five

thehighfivegr.com | Venues

616.828.1411

19 La Grave Ave. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49503

The Homestead

thehomesteadresort.com | Venues

231.334.5300

1 Wood Ridge Road Glen Arbor, MI 49636

The Inn at Harbor Shores

innatharborshores.com | Venues

269.983.1111

800 Whitwam Drive St. Joseph, MI 49085

JW Marriott Grand Rapids

marriott.com/grrjw | Venues

616.242.1585

235 Louis St. NW Grand Rapids, MI 49503

KJ Catering

kjcatering.net | Food + Beverage Catering

616.805.4590

1808 Monroe Ave., Suite B Grand Rapids, MI 49505

Lowell Showboat VI

lowellshowboat.org | Venues

616.987.0220

110 Riverwalk Plaza, PO Box 86 Lowell, MI 49331

Manistee National Golf & Resort

manisteenational.com | Venues

231.398.0123

4797 Grant Hwy. Manistee, MI 49660

The Morris Estate

themorrisestate.com | Venues

269.684.4443

2007 Morris Drive Niles, MI 49120

New Vintage Place

ryevenues.com/new-vintage-place | Venues

616.774.4400

889 Broadway Ave. NW Grand Rapids, MI 49504

Olive Branch Studios

theolivebranchstudios.com | Floral

239.994.1646

2830 Winkler Ave., Suite 104a Fort Myers, FL 33916

Riverbend Estate

riverbendestatevenue.com | Venues

616.550.0920

2401 108th Ave. Otsego, MI 49078

Samantha James Photography

samanthajamesphoto.com

Photography + Videography hello@samanthajamesphoto.com Wayland, MI

Sheraton Hotel Grand Rapids Airport

marriott.com/grris | Venues

616.957.1770

5700 28th St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546

Sherman Lake YMCA Outdoor Center

shermanlakeymca.org | Venues retreats@ymcasl.org

6225 N. 39th St. Augusta, MI 49012

The Silo

silobanquet.com | Venues

269.686.8383

1071 32nd St. Allegan, MI 49010

Skin CoLAB

skincolab.com | Health, Beauty + Grooming

616.450.1562

460 Ada Drive SE, Suite 140 Ada, MI 49301

181

Special Occasions Event Rental & Design 170 specialoccasionsmi.com | Rentals + Decor

Grand Blanc — 810.603.1380 Grand Rapids — 616.826.7082

Spring Sweet

159 springsweet.com | Wedding Fashion

616.303.3013

56 E. 8th St. Holland, MI 49423

Studio D2D Event Venues

132 studiod2d.com | Venues

616.466.0061

401 Hall St. SW Grand Rapids, MI 49503

TC Tented Events

tctentedevents.com | Rentals + Decor

231.486.5307

2300 W. South Airport Road Traverse City, MI 49684

Todd’s Menswear

172

163 toddsmenswear.com | Wedding Fashion

248.865.9963

520 W. 11 Mile Road Royal Oak, MI 48067

Travel Focus!

178 travelfocus.biz | Travel

Pamela Obermiller | 269.385.2531 pam@travelfocus.biz

Misty Olson | 269.385.2548 | misty@travelfocus.biz

Tullymore Golf Resort

tullymoregolf.com | Venues

231.972.4837

11969 Tullymore Dr. Stanwood, MI 49346

153

Venue 19 Zero 9

19zero9.com | Venues

269.781.0602

112 North Eagle St. Marshall, MI 49068

The Waddell Center

152

130 waddellbanquetcenter.com | Venues

616.538.4384

1115 Taylor Ave. N Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Wed Company Wedding Wear

161 wedcompanygr.com | Wedding Fashion

616.647.7826

11276 E. Lakewood Blvd. Holland, MI 49424

The Wedding Shoppe

164 theweddingshoppe.net | Wedding Fashion

248.541.1988

2186 Coolidge Highway Berkley, MI 48072

Wink Boudoir

winkboudoir.com | Photography + Videography

734.564.4866

607 S. Main St., Level 2 Plymouth, MI 48107

Zingerman’s Cornman Farms

169

124 cornmanfarms.com | Venues

734.619.8100

8540 Island Lake Road Dexter, MI 48130

endnote

“Planning your wedding should be fun! There will be decisions to make and priorities to rank, but do not forget the reason you are having a wedding — to marry the love of your life and celebrate with the people you love the most and who love you. Remember to keep your perspective as you plan this most sacred ceremony. And, above all, enjoy your engagement!”

— Alicia Fritz, A Day In May Events

To see more from this wedding, visit nearlywed.com/weddings/sydney-matt

by

Photo

Kate Headley

BECKER’S BRIDAL