Planning & Parties Blog

A Desert-Inspired Adventure Elopement

Carri Fras |  October 3, 2017

What girl doesn’t love a little adventure and romance? Well, in the world of weddings, that yearning can be translated beautifully into an “adventure elopement.” Nathan of Nathan English Photography explains, “They have become even more popular on the coasts, especially in the Pacific Northwest, and we wanted to bring a little taste of that to Michigan and the Midwest."

The Wedding Story of Amy and Gregory Aldridge

Carri Fras |  September 27, 2017

Sometimes, someone continues to cross your path for a reason. Even though Amy and Gregory officially met on Tinder, they weren't strangers. “After meeting, we immediately hit it off!” says Amy. “We also joked that it took so long to officially meet. Our paths have crossed a lot.

The Romance of Rustic Chic

Carri Fras |  September 26, 2017

It’s pretty hard not to love all things vintage, rustic and chic these days. Alesha Laws of Follow Your Arrow Photography certainly does and, being new to wedding photography, desired to create something that could showcase her style.

Elegance Meets History at Stonegate Manor

Carri Fras |  September 19, 2017

Anji of Anji Monique Photography was inspired by the opportunity to show brides that using local or lesser-known vendors to create their dream wedding is a possibility.

The Wedding Story of Paige and Jay Trauring

Carri Fras |  September 6, 2017

It’s usually a nice sign when the cove in which you become engaged is called “Lover’s Key.” Retreating to a romantic and warm weather getaway in Bonita Springs, Florida, Jay had packed a little something special in his luggage on that November trip.

A Vintage Fairytale at Stonegate Manor

Carri Fras |  August 17, 2017

A dreamy and elegant style shoot came to mind when Emmie of Emmie Taylor Photography first saw Stonegate Manor, a location she describes as having the perfect mix of Victorian and country vibes.

Stationery & Art

The Wedding Story of Jessica and Kyle Matson

Carri Fras |  August 16, 2017

As women, we can always appreciate things that take thought and come from the heart. I think that’s why engagement and wedding stories peak our interest, too! We always love to hear the sweet details!

The Wedding Story of Ellie & Tyler Copas

Carri Fras |  August 9, 2017

You know it’s true love when, after (accidentally) standing your future husband up on your first date, he asks you out again! While this may have been a humorous twist to Ellie and Tyler Copas’ beginning, they made up for it as they journeyed together as a couple. It was a milestone trip to The Grand Canyon, however, that took them on a major life turn. Ellie says, “We went on a long hike and when we stopped midway for lunch, Tyler told me he had something for me. I honest to God thought he was going to surprise me with cookies, but he pulled out the ring and proposed!”

Easy, Breezy Chic: A Cover Shoot at The Inn at Harbor Shores

Carri Fras |  August 3, 2017

There are truly many different takes on nautical themed weddings these days. From beachy and relaxed to seaside soirees, the sky (or the ocean) is the limit! Here in the Midwest, oceans might be lacking but we have the magnificent Great Lakes in our backyard, and we are happy we do! The beautiful lakeside communities offer some fantastic options for absolutely stunning nuptials. For us, we dreamt of something beach-inspired yet glowingly elegant. The inspirational elements that served to anchor our theme? Hues of blues, watercolor, beachy leaves, a nautical feel and a bit of whimsy.

A Michigan Blueberry Farm Soirée

Carri Fras |  July 27, 2017

Desiring to marry a rustic farm feel with the elegant, organic touches only a local farm could provide, Brooke DePauw of Stellaluna Events channeled her passion for Southwest Michigan’s natural resources into a blueberry farm-inspired style shoot that is nothing short of gorgeous and fresh!