MyNorth Wedding 2016

wedding FOR COUPLES WHO LOVE NORTHERN MICHIGAN ˜ 2016

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A CROSSFIT CELEB SHINES AS BRIDE

YES! BONUS WEDDINGS

utdoor altar WED IN A BOATHOUSE

love on the bluffs

WEDDINGS WE LOVE:

THE HOMESTEAD BOYNE MOUNTAIN STAFFORD'S BAY VIEW INN AND PERRY HOTEL GRAND TRAVERSE RESORT & SPA CRYSTAL MOUNTAIN FROG POND VILLAGE CASTLE FARMS THE LELAND LODGE

PLUS: IDEAS FROM WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHERS

MYNORTH.COM/WEDDING

$3.95

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on the Edge of Perfection Wedding Ceremonies • Receptions • Rehearsal Dinners Bridal Showers • Anniversary & Birthday Celebrations

Nantucket style Lodge with 15 comfortably appointed guest rooms provides an elegant atmosphere with all rooms pleasantly appointed for your comfort.

Four luxurious four bedroom, four bath cottages with panoramic views of our links-style course and Lake Michigan.

Celebration Capacity: Up to 120 guests

Newly renovated Sunroom with panoramic views of our award winning course and Lake Michigan provide the perfect setting for your celebration.

14710 Northwood Highway Arcadia, MI 49613

Spectacular sunsets

14710 Northwood Highway • Arcadia, Michigan 49613 • arcadiabluffs.com • 800-494-8666 Photography by Lux Light Photography

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editor’s note I was a guest at a beach wedding recently and, like all ceremonies set on water, it had its own special magic. The bridesmaids in one-shouldered gowns the color of the water behind them; the handsome groom and his men clad in tan suits that echoed the sand; the bride a shimmering pearl of white beauty next to a simple outdoor altar of small bouquets anchored to two outdoor torches set in the sand. It was a breezy day, but the pastor’s short sermon carried well enough to the knot of guests. His topic was the trilogy of wisdoms gathered at the beach that day. They included the wisdom of kin—in this case, two families of French-Swiss, Michigan and North Carolina roots—gathered to send this loved couple off with their blessings. Then there was community—the friends who’d come from far, the friends who lived just down the road, who had watched these young people grow up. Friends that would always be there if the young couple needed them. The final wisdom, the pastor told us, was setting. Looking down at his feet, he used the sand as a

metaphor for how changing and often unstable life can be—the wisdom being that by leaning on one another the navigation is so much easier. And then he turned to those waves—those waves that roll in, again and again, washing everything clean, again and again. Those waves being perhaps the greatest metaphor of all, he said. I was working on this issue of MyNorth Wedding at the time, and his words seemed made for every story we tell in this magazine.

Read on for ideas and inspiration—and for the wisdom of being married in Northern Michigan—this dazzling gatekeeper of the greatest bodies of freshwater on the planet. To be married here is a gift that keeps on blessing.

Elizabeth Edwards Managing Editor, MyNorth Weddings

wedding for couples who love northern michigan » 2016

Cameo peeks of four different takes on the Big Event.

9 The Homestead

Hockey legend Gordie Howe attended his granddaughter’s wedding at this Lake Michigan venue.

17 Castle Farms

An early spring wedding glows with historic warmth and joy.

25 Grand Traverse Resort

The amenity-filled resort was perfect for this destination wedding.

33 Boyne Mountain

Two longtime Boyne skiers created their dream wedding.

A MyNorth Media Publication PRESIDENT/ EDITOR IN CHIEF VICE PRESIDENT EDITORIAL/EDITOR

Jeff Smith

MANAGING EDITOR

Elizabeth Edwards

SENIOR WEB EDITOR

Courtney Jerome

WEB WRITER CONTRIBUTING WRITER PROOFREADERS ART DIRECTOR PRODUCTION DIRECTOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER

41 Crystal Mountain

The bridal party and guests went up, up, up and away to a mountaintop ceremony.

50 Frog Pond Village The prince married his princess bride at this enchanted venue.

57 Stafford’s Bay View Inn and Perry Hotel One wedding set on two romantic Stafford’s properties.

WEB DIRECTOR, CLIENT SALES DIRECTOR, SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT

GO TO: PINTEREST/NORTHERNMICHIGANWEDDINGS

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Heather Gray Theresa Burau-Baehr Rachel Dorie Roger Lamb Derek Graham

Kris Riley

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Jim Driver Ann Gatrell Lisa Gillespie Jeff Hale Jill Hayes Amy Artz Joslin Cyndi Ludka Candace Morse Drew Warner Ben Fellows

MARKETING DIRECTOR

Rachel North

The breathtaking Arcadia dunes were the setting for this inspired wedding.

A boathouse was the backdrop for this classically elegant wedding.

Caroline Dahlquist Elizabeth Aseritis

VIDEOGRAPHER

74 Jenn + Booth

92 Molly + Josh

Heather Johnson Durocher

Dana Allen

An elegant wedding set in a Lake Michigan village.

A CrossFit star marries her biggest fan.

Carly Simpson

MEDIA PROJECT COORDINATOR

65 The Leland Lodge

84 Julie + Dani

Deborah Wyatt Fellows

CIRCULATION FULFILLMENT MANAGER

Jodi G. Simpson

TICKETING MANAGER

Rob DiClemente

ASSISTANT TICKETING COORDINATOR

Marilyn Jones

OFFICE MANAGER

Libby Stallman

CONTROLLER

Kirstin Gorney

COVER PHOTO: JESSE DAVID GREEN, JESSEDAVIDGREEN.COM

4 Details, Details, Details …

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leelanau vineyard weddings

MICHAEL MURPHY IV PHOTOGRAPHY

WEBER PHOTOGRAPHY

MICHAEL MURPHY IV PHOTOGRAPHY

MEG ASHLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

auroracellars.com 7788 e. horn rd., lake leelanau, mi 49653 | 231.994.3290 | winery@auroracellars.com AURORA CELLARS 2016 FP.indd 1 1215_WED_OPENER.indd 3

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details, details, details...

VINTAGE COTTAGE WEDDING Top: On June 12, 2015, Todd and Kelly Voskuhl were wed at Wheeler Cottage on Lake Leelanau.

The couple rented the circa 1900 seven-bedroom cottage as an all-in-one lodging-and-event venue.

Bottom, clockwise: Flowers were by Field of Flowers in Leland and included coral charm peonies, Iceland poppies, lilting sweet peas, chamomile, and snowball viburnum. Classic dishtowels in lieu of placemats made for relaxed place settings.

White blankets rolled up in wicker baskets were for guests to wrap up in when the sun went down.

The bride’s mom prepared all of the food, including local strawberries served in her own dishware. The ring boxes were engraved with the couple’s initials and “45th parallel”—the latitude on which Lake Leelanau is located.

PHOTOS BY MELISA MCKOLAY PHOTOGRAPHY, MCKOLAYPHOTO.COM

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love is in the details...

M22 I DO’S Top: Bride Alexis Casterline’s hair and makeup were

by LilyJade at The Homestead in Glen Arbor. The bouquets of peonies and cabbage roses were by Field of Flowers in Leland. Her vintage ivory and champagne-colored gown with capped sleeves fit the lost-in-time feel of these July 18, 2015, nuptials that moved from a ceremony on the Leland Village Green to the reception in the Glen Arbor Town Hall. The quaint coastal towns are 17 miles apart, connected by stunning lake views and countryside.

All Cakes, All Occasions in Traverse City made the raspberry swirl cake with buttercream frosting. The dessert bar featured Alexis’s Aunt Mary’s famous cookies. The party trolley was by Celtic Shuttles.

“The Glen Arbor Town Hall has that cabinlike feel, with its wooden walls and floo —Lex and I are very cabin-type people,” Chris Casterline says. The bride’s mother, Kathee McCaffert , decorated the hall. Opposite: The couple provided a Traverse City baker with Michigan-shaped cookie cutters to create the party favors.

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PHOTOS BY DAN STEWART PHOTOGRAPHY, DANSTEWARTPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

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WEDDING ON THE GREENS Top, clockwise: Karisa and C.J. MacConnell were married June 20, 2015, at Arcadia Blu˜ s Golf Club; CJ had the date and venue picked out before he proposed. “He nailed it,” says his bride of the setting with its lush greens and sweeping Lake Michigan vistas. The flowers were by Victoria’s Floral Design in Benzonia. “They were a big city operation in the smallest towns. It was like Alice in Wonderland,” Karisa says. Bagpipes are the only instrument this Scottish links golf club allows at the resort. “It brought this incredible ambiance and added to the fairytale aspect of the course and the surroundings,” Karisa says. A lace overlay over a champagne slip added mystery to the bride’s gown.

PHOTOS BY LUX LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY , LUXLIGHTPHOTOGRAPHY.NET

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love is in the details...

A GRAND WEDDING Top: Keith and Andrew Gibson were married June 13, 2015, at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. “The staff went above and beyond to ma e us feel welcome,” Andrew says. Clockwise: The intimate ceremony (including close friend Tonya Rice, shown below with Keith) was on the Grand Hotel’s porch, followed by a reception in the hotel’s intimate Pontiac Room. Flowers by Margaret’s Garden, located inside the hotel, were lime and soft yellow cymbidium orchids with a light mix of greenery. The three-tier, raspberry-filled ca e, made by the Grand Hotel, was iced with white buttercream in a scroll pattern with a piped pearl border. The florists came up with an idea to include a miniature lime green cymbidium orchid inside each guest napkin.

“Our photographer Andrejka, did an incredible job capturing all the emotion and joy from our wedding day,” Andrew says.

PHOTOS BY ANDREJKA PHOTOGRAPHY, ANDREJKAPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

wedding 2016

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Storybook Weddings Photo by Andy Wakeman

TraverseCity.com 800-TRAVERSE

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the

Homestead STORY BY HEATHER JOHNSON DUROCHER PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN AND MELISSA PHOTOGRAPHY

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Meaghan& Doug MEAGHAN HOWE DOUG STOINSKI AUGUST 22, 2015 During a hike on Empire Bluffs Trail, with its majestic and sweeping views of Lake Michigan, Doug Stoinski and Meaghan Howe decided to spend the rest of their lives together. That outing also led the Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, couple to decide to have their wedding, nearly two years later, at Glen Arbor’s The Homestead resort.

“The Homestead is the closest resort to the trail where we were engaged,” says Meaghan, who like Doug, vacationed in Northern Michigan as a child. “It was really special that we picked this place … We just felt that The Homestead had all of the elements of the atmosphere we wanted to create,” says the bride, adding that she loves the resort’s connection to the outdoors combined with its upscale amenities. “It feels magical when you pull in,” Meaghan says.

Having a vacation-worthy location for guests was also important—many of them stayed on site and for multiple days.

To welcome guests to The Homestead, Meaghan and Doug provided a sampling of local treats. They offered delicacies from Grocer’s Daughters’ Chocolates, a gourmet chocolatier based in Empire, and tasty items from the Glen Arbor–based cherry-themed business, Cherry Republic.

The couple also provided information about hiking and places of interest in the beautiful Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore that embraces both Empire and Glen Arbor.

Meaghan Howe, granddaughter of hockey legend Gordie Howe, and Doug Stoinski were married August 22, 2015. The 1 p.m. ceremony took place at St. Philip Neri Catholic Church in Empire, where bunches of lavender adorned the pews.

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After making the short drive from the church to the resort along the acclaimed scenic highway M22, guests were treated to an outdoor cocktail hour followed by the reception at The Homestead’s elegantly rustic Mountain Flowers Lodge.

Gordie Howe’s appearance at the reception was an emotional high point for the bride. “He had a stroke a year ago and wasn’t doing very well,” she says.

“We didn’t think he could be there. But he came—just to the reception—and having him be there was one of the best parts of the day. When he saw me, he started crying … it was so sweet. I think it hit him and it hit me at the same time, how great it was that he was there.”

The remainder of the evening carried on that intimate feeling. “Our goal was creating for our guests an experience showing what we love about being Up North, and having them be able to celebrate that with us,” Meaghan says.

One memory the couple will always cherish was when staff at The Homestead drove them to the top of the resort’s ski hill to watch the sun set over Lake Michigan. “It was an unplanned, lastminute thing,” Meaghan says. “One of our wedding coordinators drove us up there herself in a golf cart just as the sun was setting. We had the videographer and photographer there. Northern Michigan is known for its sunsets, we were lucky to experience such a beautiful one on our wedding day.”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN AND MELISSA PHOTOGRAPHY, DANANDMELISSAPHOTOGRAPHY.COM VENUE: THE HOMESTEAD, GLEN ARBOR, THEHOMESTEADRESORT.COM

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Opposite: The bride’s simple, elegant strapless gown set the tone for the wedding. This page, clockwise: Centerpieces included wine bottles in burlap, dried roses from past bouquets given to the bride from her groom and plenty of candles; the wine bottles came from Chateau Chantal on Traverse City’s Old Mission Peninsula—a winery and inn where the couple stayed the weekend they got engaged. More dried roses on a homemade decoration for the place-card table. The red couch was a photo prop a bridesmaid bought at an estate sale for $60. The wedding cake,

by Top Tier Cakery, was iced to look like birch bark and featured a heart with the couple’s initials, as if carved into a tree. Doug’s sister made the bride-andgroom cake toppers.

wedding wedding 2016 2016

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This page: Meaghan and her grandpa, hockey legend Gordie Howe, shared a tender moment at the reception. Inside, The Homestead’s Mountain Flowers Lodge is outfitted with details like knotty pine trim and a massive stone fireplace (not shown). Outside, a waterfall cascades (not shown) through the wooded grounds.

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This page, clockwise: Dancing and music capped off the beautiful day. Cocktails on the patio of the Mountain Flowers Lodge. Meaghan and Doug slipped away to soak up the sun setting over Lake Michigan.

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Wedding Notebook THE HOMESTEAD

accommodations

You’ll feel at home in one of our thoughtfully appointed guest rooms or enjoy the spaciousness of a privately owned condominium and exclusive setting of a vacation home. Stay in an historic Inn, a rustic retreat inside a modern, hilltop lodge or a romantic getaway nestled in the woods or on top of a lake-facing hillside. Choose a level of luxury that suits your mood and your means. We offer a seasonal range of rates, attractively priced packages and no minimum stays.

A ceremony at Bay Mountain

We invite you to visit a special place where generations of lovers have shared whispered promises, their faces caressed by Lake Michigan breezes, hearts touched by the vision of shimmering islands, souls stirred by watercolor sunsets over Sleeping Bear Bay and the world’s largest moving sand dunes. Here, at The Homestead, you’ll feel waves of emotion wash over you, as you discover the most wonderfully romantic and luxurious setting for your destination wedding. We’ve borrowed nature’s gifts to create three wedding venues with unmatched natural beauty. Each promises a succession of memorable moments you’ll treasure forever.

To learn more, we invite you to call us. We will send you information filled with wonderful photos and warm reviews from recent brides. And, we will invite you to come for a visit. When you do, you’ll see that your perfect wedding, like your love, can begin with a look and a touch.

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A suite at Little Belle

catering

We’ve carefully paired our menus with our wedding settings, creating cuisine that complements your style. To award-winning local wines, fresh food from local farms and pastries made from “scratch” in our kitchens, we add sparkling table settings and expert service from unassuming staff. These are The Homestead’s ingredients for fabulous dining on the most important day of your lives.

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event facilities

destination services

Mountain Flowers Lodge

Almost touching the sky, and fresh as the flowers that scent its terraces, Bay Mountain offers panoramic views of majestic Lake Michigan, Glen Lake and the Manitou Passage. Guests of up to 180 can be seated here for a ceremony followed by a cocktail reception on another beautiful terrace.

When it’s time to dine and dance, we’ll whisk you and your groom from the peak to the valley below where you’ll find Mountain Flowers Lodge surrounded by country gardens and a sparkling waterfall. This timbered great hall seats up to 180 guests.

Camp Firefly captures the charm of the north woods, inside and out. Celebrate your day with up to 90 guests on a landscaped patio overlooking a pond, surrounded by a lush lawn, friendly forest and wildflowers, then dine in the rustic Great Hall of an Adirondack-style lodge set beside a waterfall and pond.

Camp Firefly

You and your guests will spend each carefree moment enjoying the resort’s many amenities while surrounded by the beauty of nature. Beach. Pools. Tennis. Golf. Kayaks.

Fitness facilities. Ski runs and trails. Men enjoy “swinging” bachelor parties at our Orvis® fly fishing school or our Dave Pelz Scoring Game School. Ladies find bliss at Spa Amira, overlooking Lake Michigan, offering therapeutic massage, and lighthearted fun for bridesmaids around a spa pool. Then, bathed in natural light beside Lillyjade Salon's reflecting pool, their locks will be coiffed and colored, their nails and toenails luxuriously buffed for the Big Day. You can welcome your guests with a beachfront bonfire–S’mores and sunsets are included! Or with a pizza party at Beppi’s, a sports bar. Your rehearsal dinner, family get-togethers and wedding party luncheons can include sophisticated restaurant soirees or picnics to go. And, you can send your guests home with a bon voyage brunch.

Wood Ridge Road Glen Arbor, MI 49636 231-334-5000 231-334-5300 Events Phone thehomesteadresort.com Event Coordinators Barb Ellis: 231.334.5131 Lynzie Gotshall: 231.334.5129 Camp Firefly

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Reception Capacity Up to 180

Event Rooms 2 Guest Rooms 225

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Viewtiful Weddings

Shhh…

We’ve quietly created stylish new sites for weddings and receptions.

They meld the majesty of Lake Michigan with the beauty of Leelanau.

Choose one…flavors will swirl, wines will sparkle and your day, your perfect day, will be made.

Come see. It’ll be love at first sight.

Glen Arbor, MI 49636 | thehomesteadresort.com | 231.334.5000 2016_WED_HOMESTEAD.indd 16

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Castle

Farms

STORY BY CARLY SIMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY CORY WEBER PHOTOGRAPHY

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Annie & Ryan ANNIE SCHOONOVER RYAN SMITH MARCH 21, 2015 It was 14 degrees outside, but inside the Queen’s Tavern, a room in Charlevoix’s gorgeous Castle Farms, a historic French Renaissance-style castle, the light from dozens of candles reflecting off the handstitched crystals on Annie’s lace wedding dress warmed the room. No doubt, the Queen’s Tavern was fi led with light, love, and history on Annie and Ryan’s wedding day.

The iconic landmark in Charlevoix was nearing its 100th anniversary in March of 2015. Castle Farms was built in 1918 by Albert Loeb, then president of Sears, Roebuck and Company. Loeb envisioned a European-style chateau where he could show off his prize-winning livestock. Since then, the castle and its grounds have enchanted the landscape for nearly a century, while being many things, including an art gallery and a concert venue (where stars like Bob Seger, Willie Nelson and Aerosmith performed). In 2001, Linda Mueller purchased Castle Farms and restored it to its original grandeur. The venue is now host to weddings, events and historical tours.

Annie and Ryan have their own history in Charlevoix. The couple grew up three doors down from each other, but their paths didn’t cross until January 2012 while snowboarding at Boyne Highlands in Harbor Springs. Given their love of snow sports, the couple knew they wanted a winter wedding—one that, says Annie, was “simple, romantic and elegant.” The Castle proved their ideal choice, and the understated elegance of the wedding let the

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beauty of the historic venue speak for itself.

After the ceremony, guests were taken to the West Garden Room for the reception. The wedding’s neutral color theme was a sophisticated fit for the room’s wealth of details including French doors and crystal chandeliers.

The evening’s dinner was catered

by Pigs Eatin’ Ribs, a local barbecue phenom. The menu began with an artisan cheese platter of crostini and vegetable crudités, and a salad of field greens with oranges, walnuts, feta cheese and balsamic vinaigrette. Dinner continued with roasted baby redskin potatoes, green beans amandine and gourmet mac-andcheese. Two entrées were offered: herb encrusted roasted chicken and slowsmoked barbeque brisket.

Guests were also treated to an oatmeal raisin cookie fl vored beer that Annie and Ryan brewed at Beards Brewing in Petoskey. “We made it on our three-year anniversary,” Annie says. “We went and bought our wedding bands and then went and brewed our beer.”

On that chilly but beautiful first night of spring, the people who were tucked inside the Castle to celebrate Annie and Ryan’s marriage were indeed treated like royalty!

PHOTOGRAPHY: CORY WEBER PHOTOGRAPHY, CORYWEBERPHOTOGRAPHY.COM VENUE: CASTLE FARMS, A HISTORIC FRENCH RENAISSANCE-STYLE CASTLE, CHARLEVOIX, CASTLEFARMS.COM

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Opposite: Annie wore a Savannah Marie antique white gown by Maggie Sottero. La Dulce Vita in Petoskey did her hair and makeup. Annie’s father, Bob Schoonover, escorted her down the aisle. This page, clockwise: The deep red tones scattered throughout the bouquets and the draping greens along the wooden banister added a romantic, warm touch to the Queen’s Tavern. Annie’s bridal bouquet included peonies, tulips, ranunculus, jasmine vine, gardenias, olive branch, anemones and eucalyptus. Her something blue was her grandmother’s handkerchief tied among the streaming ribbons in the bouquet. The couple exchanged vows and lit a unity candle in front of close friends and family. Their altar was constructed of simple wooden crates and candles.

2014 wedding 2016

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This page, clockwise: Annie and Ryan took pictures among the trees in the King’s Grand Courtyard. Ryan’s mother lent Annie her fur coat for the occasion. Annie’s dress had a lace overlay with hand-stitched beading and crystals. Cap sleeves accent a low, illusion back with embellished lace. Crystal buttons finish the zipper-back closure. The Castle brims with photo ops for regal bridal party photographs.

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This page, clockwise: Ivory linen tablecloths with a gold shimmer adorned the tables. The favors sat on top of gold chargers. Each guest received a box of Harwood Gold maple candies made at Parsons Farm in Charlevoix. Annie and Ryan chose “Baby I’m Yours,” by the Arctic Monkeys, for their first dance as a married couple. Ryan’s aunt made the wedding cake, adorning it with raspberry filling and butter cream frosting. His mother gave them silver forks inscribed with “I do” and “Me too.”

2014 wedding 2016

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Wedding Notebook CASTLE FARMS

wedding venues

Historical Elegance & Unmatched Service With cobblestone courtyards, soaring stone towers, and magnificent sweeping gardens,

Just Alex Photography

Tatum Photo and Design

430 Studios

Whether choosing to host an intimate reception or a stylish affair that caters to a crowd, Castle Farms has the perfect location. With five reception rooms to choose from, each paired with an elegant ceremony location, couples are certain to find an area reflecting their own taste and style.

Castle Farms has earned a reputation as one of Michigan’s premiere historical attractions, as well as a celebrated wedding year-round elegance and romance.

Where else can you find majestic courtyards, stunning reception rooms, and world-class customer service, all in one place?

Paul Retherford Photography

venue. The Castle offers couples

Dramatic stone arches found around every corner provide stun-

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photographers. The Castle’s fragrant gardens, manicured lawns, and stunning fountains offer unlimited opportunities for photos.

Center of Attention Photography

Monica Zibutis Photography

ning backdrops for professional

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services

Local Accommodations

With over a decade of expertise, our primary focus is hosting weddings that create a one of a kind experience for you and your guests. Our Venue Coordinators, plus a dedicated team of set up staff, gardeners, housekeepers, and maintenance, ensure you will have a stress-free wedding.

Charlevoix has accommodation options to suit everyone! You will find your guests well taken care of in any of the local Bed & Breakfasts, Hotels & Inns, Motels or Rental Homes. The closest preferred accommodation is conveniently located only 2.5 miles

EC Campbell Photography

from Castle Farms.

vendors

Michael Murphy IV Photography

Paul Retherford Photography

We allow you the flexibility to choose your own vendors, including your caterer, as well as purchase the alcohol for your event. It’s a significant advantage for any couple interested in saving money, and allows you even more opportunities for creativity.

Charlevoix the beautiful

Nestled in the resort community of Charlevoix, Castle Farms invites wedding guests to explore our beautiful town. A scenic harbor, welcoming shops, manicured parks, creative restaurants, wood chipped nature trails, and the perfect view of sunset at the lighthouse are just some of the sights you’ll see in our area.

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CASTLE FARMS 5052 M-66 North Charlevoix, MI 49720 231-237-0884 CastleFarms.com Bridal Consultants Rebekah Moser Kayla Eggers Reception Capacity Up to 350 guests Varies by venue

Ceremony Locations 3 Reception Rooms 5 Unique Photo Opps 12 Courtyards & Gardens with countless backdrops

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Castle 231-237-0884

Farms

5052 M-66 North Charlevoix, Michigan 49720

t ©Cen

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CastleFarms.com

P h ot t io n

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© Darrell Christie Photography

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Grand Traverse Resort & Spa STORY BY HEATHER JOHNSON DUROCHER PHOTOGRAPHY BY CORY WEBER PHOTOGRAPHY

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Lindsay&Christopher LINDSAY THOMPSON CHRISTOPHER LIPARI SEPTEMBER 5, 2015 A weekend trip north for Chicago residents Lindsay Thompson and Christopher Lipari helped them find the ideal location for the Labor Day weekend wedding they envisioned. Naturally the couple sought a venue that would make a lovely stage for their wedding, but the venue would also have to feel like a satisfying mini-vacation for their guests, many of whom would be traveling long distances. Her family is all in California and Chicago. His family is in Detroit.

The couple selected the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa in Acme, just east of Traverse City, in large part because of the connection they made with Liz Brooks, Grand Traverse Resort's special events manager. “She played a huge part—we felt we connected with her on the first day we met her. She had answers to all of our questions, could accommodate all of our guests, and she executed our vision. Every time we talked with her she made us feel we were a priority and she was going to bat for us—and she did,” Lindsay says.

The Grand Traverse Resort’s numerous offerings and amenities— golf and tennis, on-site spa and pool, boating, shopping—also helped seal the deal. That the resort was re-doing its beautiful Tower rooms was a bonus.

“So many of our guests ended up raving about that,” Lindsay says.

Celebrating Northern Michigan’s landscape and the outdoors was important to the couple. “As far as aesthetics go, I wanted to be outside because Traverse City is so beautiful,” Lindsay says. “With weather being a little unpredictable, we wanted a tent … I wanted to bring the outdoors inside the

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tent. I wanted a romantic, elegant feel.”

To achieve that plein air, natural feel, the couple worked with a vendor who decorated the poles of the Grand Traverse Resort’s own Plaza reception tent—located near the golf course—to look like towering trees. Lights made the branches sparkle. An altar designed by the couple featured willows. “Her style was on point—it was very classic, very elegant, not over the top. It was the perfect amount of perfect,” the resort’s Liz Brooks says.

With 250 wedding guests, Lindsay and Christopher realized they’d be hardpressed to be able to catch up with friends and family as much as they’d like on the day of their wedding. For this reason, they hosted two other gatherings over the weekend, first an “all-white” beach barbecue Friday night and then a Sunday brunch at the resort’s gorgeous Tower restaurant, Aerie.

“It gave us time to give each guest quality attention,” Lindsay says, adding that a post-brunch gathering with the bridal party and family members featured time on the water in rented pontoon boats. “Everyone enjoyed all of our events.”

Liz couldn’t agree more about the success of the weekend. “They’re just a beautiful couple,” she says. You can really tell when two people are in love, and they just complement each other well, from their humor to their seriousness.

They are a match made in heaven.”

PHOTOGRAPHY: CORY WEBER PHOTOGRAPHY,.

CORYWEBERPHOTOGRAPHY.COM VENUE: GRAND TRAVERSE RESORT AND SPA, ACME, GRANDTRAVERSERESORT.COM

MYNORTH.COM/WEDDING

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Opposite: Flowers played a pivotal role in the ceremony and at the reception.

This page, clockwise: Potted hydrangeas lined the aisle in the ceremony tent. The wedding party included 10 bridesmaids and 10 groomsmen, consisting of family and friends. (“We’re both one of five kids,” Lindsay says.) In separate photos with Lindsay, each bridesmaid held a frame with a significant phrase they’d written about their friendship with the bride. The Grand Traverse Resort rises above the Northern Michigan landscape.

Lindsay’s bouquet featured cafe au lait dahlias, garden and spray roses, freesia and the greenery Dusty Miller.

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This page, clockwise: The reception tent decor continued the outdoor theme, with trees wrapped around the tent poles, white lights illuminating their branches. Lindsay chose garden and spray roses as well as dahlia and freesia for the table arrangements. A cocktail hour on the deck near the reception area included plenty of hors d’oeuvres.

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This page, clockwise: Lindsay created the cake topper herself, fashioning it from antique broaches and buttons. (A nod to her love of antique and heirloom jewelry.) Wanting a simple dessert for her guests, Lindsay found a photo of a similar cake on Pinterest, then added a few personal touches of her own including an ivory ribbon and cascading flower petals. The celebration continued well into the evening, with guests enjoying music and dancing alongside Lindsay and Christopher until midnight. “We definitely were dancing the night away,� she remembers. The tree theme set by the decorated tent poles played out in a miniature tree for the escort card table.

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Wedding Notebook GRAND TRAVERSE RESORT AND SPA

event facilities

86,500 square feet of versatile indoor and outdoor function space gives you ultimate flexibility in selecting the venues for your special day. Our wedding staff is practiced at transforming the ballroom or outdoor venue of your choice into a truly unforgettable environment. You’ll appreciate the smooth, detail-oriented leadership of our event professionals, as they execute your vision to perfection.

Bridal parties delight in our spa and salon, while groomsmen typically prefer golf and our nearby Turtle Creek Casino. And with multiple wedding and reception venues, our planners create a brand of seamless perfection, regardless of scale. From intimate unions to grand affairs, your guests will feel every bit as loved, cherished and honored as the bride and groom.

Michigan’s Premier Resort Experience People often remark that the most appealing thing about the 900-acre Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is its sense of the genuine. So when couples choose to exchange their vows here, it feels especially romantic. Sincerity resonates among the trees, and love sparkles on the water. Simply put, it just feels right.

Our wedding staff is practiced at transforming the banquet room or ballroom of your choice into a truly unforgettable environment.

You’ll appreciate the smooth, detail-oriented leadership of our event professionals, as they execute your vision to perfection. Pre-event parties and rehearsal dinners are easily arranged.

From our convenient, centrally located Midwest location, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is easily accessible to all of your guests – just ten minutes by Resort shuttle from Traverse City’s Cherry Capital Airport (TVC).

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catering

From 2 people to 2,000 people, our Catering department can make an unforgettable experience for your wedding. Our experienced staff can work with any budget and is committed to great guest service.

Weddings are a time for celebration, and our catering staff can work with you on any specialty menu to suit your attendees and their finer tastes! And special meals are no problem for guests with special food needs, and dietary considerations.

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accommodations

Recreation Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is renowned for many things, but the golf experience is among the best anywhere. For each of our three signature courses, we sought out the finest designers the industry has to offer.

• The Bear by Jack Nicklaus.

• The Wolverine by Gary Player.

• Spruce Run by William Newcomb.

Our 100,000-square-foot Health Club offers something for everyone. Features include:

Whether you stay in the Hotel, the Tower or a Condominium, you’ll revel in the natural splendor of the outdoors, and the luxurious amenities and outstanding accommodations within.

• Fully equipped Cardio and Weight Room

• The Hotel - Our six-story hotel offers 238 spacious guest rooms, many with gorgeous views and wireless highspeed Internet access. Conveniences include: color cable television, bathroom television speakers, hair dryers, and much more.

• The Tower - Our newly renovated 17-story glass structure offers 186 large, luxuriously appointed rooms and suites each with wireless high-speed Internet access. You’ll relax amid breathtaking views of sumptuous forests and the rolling hills and orchards of the surrounding golf courses.

Deluxe amenities include: wet bars, Jacuzzi whirlpool tubs, bathroom phones, cable TV, refrigerators, and more.

• Condominiums - Sample fairway or beachfront living when you get away to one of our 161 condominiums.

Studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom accommodations are available in a variety of locations.

• 5 Indoor and 4 Outdoor Tennis Courts

guest services At Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, you’ll find nearly 600 rooms, suites, and condominiums plus a combination of services and amenities unmatched elsewhere. The expert hands of our spa professionals relax bride and attendants with luxurious treatments and massages, and can create perfectly styled hair and makeup for the bridal party. Groomsmen and guests will enjoy a pre-wedding round of golf on one of our three premier courses, a tension-releasing game of tennis, or a relaxing whirlpool. Pristine beaches and exciting water sports are additional options that will make your wedding a memorable mini-getaway for each and every guest. Winter weddings have a special allure with our crackling fireplaces, snow-covered views, and elegant lodge atmosphere. Your guests can also enjoy cross-country skiing, sleigh rides, and other winter activities.

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• Fitness Classes • 15,000-square-foot Indoor Water Playground • Recreation Pool

GRAND TRAVERSE RESORT AND SPA 100 Grand Traverse Village Blvd.

Acme, MI 49610-0404 231-534-6000 800-748-0303 weddings@gtresort.com GrandTraverseResort.com

Special Events Manager Liz Brooks

Reception Capacity 2,500

Spa Manager Dawn Olsen

Event Rooms 35

Spa/Golf Sales Managers Kris Ruckle Katie Reas

Guest Rooms 585

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GOLF SPA SHOP DINE CASINO

GET UP AND GO Breathtaking scenery and unforgettable moments. The paradise of a Northern Michigan wedding is more than inspirational views, a flowerlined path, or sunset stroll on the beach. More than tee times with the guys or endless pampering for the girls. It’s having all those things at your fingertips. You won’t believe it if you haven’t seen it. Get up and go at GrandTraverseResort.com/Weddings.

#gtresort Owned and Operated by the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians

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Boyne

Mountain STORY BY HEATHER JOHNSON DUROCHER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALICIA ROSE VALLER | ROSE PHOTOGRAPHY

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Julia Marie &Jason JULIA MARIE SERRELS JASON MURTAGH AUGUST 29, 2015 It all began a decade ago at Western Michigan University, where a skier from Charlevoix met a fellow ski and snowboarding team member who would become her husband.

“I was the president of the ski team and he was the new, cute snowboarder on the team—that’s how we met. I took him under my wing,” says Julia Marie Murtagh of her now-husband Jason Murtagh.

The couple, who moved to Royal Oak following college graduation, kept up with their passion for hitting the slopes together by traveling north whenever they could get away. One spot in particular came to hold a special place in their hearts: Boyne Mountain. And when it came time to select a spot to hold their wedding, they didn’t have to think twice. “We spend a lot of time going to Boyne, in all seasons, so it was a natural selection for us,” she says.

“We might live in metro Detroit, but our hearts are always in Northern Michigan."

With the help of her lifelong friend Brie Kear, the wedding sales manager for Boyne, Julia Marie began planning her wedding.

One key point of assistance: Brie helped the couple decide precisely where, within the expansive Boyne campus, they would hold their celebration. They decided on Deer Lake, a spot they found “encompasses all the parts of Northern Michigan that

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we love,” says Julia Marie. Located on the backside of Boyne Mountain, this small, private lake offered the right measure of intimacy while offering a pretty lawn for tents and tables.

With more than 75 percent of their 115 guests coming from out of town, “the lodging opportunities at Boyne were a big deal for us,” the bride says. The hotels and condos made it easy for guests to stay the weekend, so family and friends had a fun time at Boyne. (Jason’s 70-year-old uncle did the zip line!)

“Enchanting was a word I used a lot,” Julia Marie says of her wedding. “I wanted a lot of different lighting elements, a lot of candles, drop lighting, traditional white lights in tents.” When the special moment came, Julia Marie’s twin brother, Roscoe, walked her down the grassy aisle to an altar hewn from saplings and decorated in fl wers. And then it was on to party the night away in a tented reception that sparkled with candles and lights, on the banks of beautiful Deer Lake.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ROSE PHOTOGRAPHY, FACEBOOK.COM/ROSEPHOTOCHICAGO VENUE: BOYNE MOUNTAIN, BOYNE FALLS, BOYNE.COM

MYNORTH.COM/WEDDING

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Opposite: Julia Marie and Jason found the perfect outdoor wedding setting along the shores of Deer Lake at Boyne Mountain. This page, clockwise: The couple worked with BLOOM Floral Design of Petoskey on the bridal bouquet and the flower arrangements placed throughout the ceremony and reception areas. “There were flowers everywhere, with dramatic textures and a lot of color—she made all my dreams come true,” Julia Marie says of her florist, Jennifer Haf. The couple’s 4-year-old chocolate Labrador, Wally, joined the festivities. Julia Marie calculated how many days she and Jason had been together as of August 29 and had the number printed out on a card she gave him.

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This page, clockwise: Metallic spray paint turned ordinary wine bottles into shimmering candleholders. In place of a traditional party favor, the couple made a donation to a local dog rescue. (“We’re huge dog people, and this rescue in Detroit is doing fantastic work,” Julia Marie says.) A large willow tree on the property was a main focal point for the wedding decor. An outdoor bar was situated underneath, with lights strung so that the tree glowed.

In the tent, a large chandelier was adorned with candles and flowers

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This page, clockwise: BLOOM Floral Design’s lush touch on the bride and groom’s chairs. The invitation. The couple share a quiet moment on the dance floor. The couple worked closely with Smitten Events out of Harbor Springs to bring all of the elements together. A selfie station, with two Polaroid cameras, gave guests the chance to capture moments to share with the bride and groom. “Each guest could write their own messages to us. We just had the best time reliving the night through all these random and candid photos,” says Julia Marie.

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Wedding Notebook BOYNE MOUNTAIN RESORT

Event Facilities

Boyne Mountain’s unique northern Michigan setting offers a multitude of indoor and outdoor options for wedding ceremonies and receptions, as well as rehearsal dinners, showers and anniversary parties. The event’s locale holds so many nuptial memories and Boyne Mountain’s experienced wedding planners have every detail in mind—including coordination of floral and photography services and the creation of unique menus, to ensure each of those memories lasts a lifetime. From lakeside ceremonies and receptions on picturesque Deer Lake, to an indoor reception in the Civic Center accommodating up to 500 guests, Boyne Mountain’s unique combination of location and facilities offers couples with the perfect setting for an unforgettable day.

Feel Free At Boyne Mountain, we’ve been creating unforgettable memories for our guests for over 65 years. From bachelorette parties at The Spa at Boyne Mountain, to rehearsal dinners in any number of our facilities, to the perfect ceremony, indoors or out, and seemingly endless lodging options for you and your guests, Boyne Mountain has everything to make your special day absolutely perfect. No matter the season you choose to say “I do,” you’ll enjoy all the best we have to offer, from skiing and snowboarding during the winter months, to world-class golf, ziplining, and biking in the summer.

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Activities/Recreation At Boyne Mountain, we know how to have fun! No matter the season, there’s always something to enjoy. During the summer, guests can enjoy 36 holes of championship golf on The Alpine and The Monument, ziplining from the top of Boyne Mountain, horseback riding, guided Segway PT tours, miles of hiking and biking trails, or simply relaxing on the beach on Deer Lake. In the winter, enjoy one of the Midwest’s premier skiing destinations, offering over 60 runs and 415 skiable acres, along with cross country skiing, snowshoeing, fat tire snow biking, and tubing. Bridal parties at the Spa at Boyne Mountain are a must no matter the season. The nearby resort towns of Petoskey, Boyne City and Charlevoix offer

accommodations

culture, adventure, shopping, fine dining and fun for the quintessential “Up North” experience.

Boyne Mountain’s seemingly endless array of lodging is sure to fill the needs of every guest. Choose from nine different lodging options, including rustic, yet comfortable mountain cabins, lakeside villas, private condominiums, or the Austrian themed Mountain Grand Lodge & Spa, and all designed to provide the perfect experience for each and every taste. Several options are able to accommodate 10 and even 12 guests, many contain unique amenities like fireplaces, private hot tubs, and more. And with over 400 total guest rooms and suites on property and accommodations for over 2600 guests, there’s more than enough room for everyone in your party.

catering Our catering team can make an unforgettable experience for your wedding. Our experienced associates can work with any budget and are committed to great guest service.

Weddings are a time for celebration, and our catering team can work with you on any specialty menu to suit your attendees and their finer tastes! And special needs for guests with special food needs and dietary considerations can easily be accommodated.

(844) 812-1990 boyneweddings.com

Wedding Sales Manager Brie Kear 231.439.4078 bkear@boyne.com

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Reception Capacity 500

Event Managers Laura McFarren Kris Sherwood Heather Pelton Jaclyn Wingate

Event Space Vienna Ballroom Civic Center Stein Eriksen's Restaurant and Patio Deer Lake Lawn Beach House Restaurant

Spa Manager Alex Pelyak

Rooms and Suites 427

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A Spectacular Setting. A Perfect Day. Three incredible northern Michigan resorts and award-winning spas, each an achievement of grace and style.

Whether you are seeking the destination for your special day, for an unforgettable honeymoon, or for a setting to relax and have fun with girlfriends, BOYNE’s resorts are the perfect choice. And with three spectacular spas, our experienced staff can delight you from head to toe...feeling refreshed and beautiful for your wedding day.

866.988.2042 BOYNEWEDDINGS.COM 2016_WED_BOYNEMOUNTAIN.indd 40

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Crystal

Mountain STORY BY HEATHER JOHNSON DUROCHER PHOTOGRAPHY BY SISTERS STUDIO

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Brittany& Jason BRITTANY RADEMAKER JASON KINGSLEY AUGUST 22, 2015 As avid downhill skiers, Brittany Rademaker and Jason Kingsley have enjoyed traveling from their home in Norton Shores, near Muskegon, to Crystal Mountain, in Thompsonville, for a number of years. So when the time came to decide on their destination wedding location, they opted for the Northern Michigan resort. “It’s a special place for us because we have our condo there,” says Brittany. “We go there and ski a lot in the winter. My husband’s sister and brother-in-law and friends of ours all have condos there, too.”

Of course, the couple witnessed an entirely new and exciting side to Crystal Mountain as planning for their special day unfolded. The couple chose to hold their ceremony, which included 250 guests, at the top of the ski slopes. “I was looking for something that was classic and romantic and elegant and simple,” Brittany says. The mountain-top ceremony site proved to be just that. Guests could opt to get up and down from the mountain via a shuttle or a chairlift. “I thought [the chairlift rides]

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were kind of corny at first, but people ended up loving it,” Brittany says.

Afterward, as guests enjoyed cocktails at the base of the ski hill, the bridal party traveled the short distance to the Lake Michigan village of Frankfort for beach photos.

Crystal Mountain catered the reception, which featured the resort’s “roaming stations dinner.” Moving among food stations that included sautéed seafood and bananas foster kept guests engaged. The dessert bar was a hit, and the perfect sendoff for an evening of dancing and music.

And then came the grand finale Brittany’s mom and step-dad surprised the couple with a fi eworks display to celebrate their day. “We kept saying we just wanted it to be fun,” Bittany says. And fun it was.

PHOTOGRAPHY: SISTERS STUDIO, SISTERS-STUDIO.COM VENUE: CRYSTAL MOUNTAIN, THOMPSONVILLE, CRYSTALMOUNTAIN.COM

MYNORTH.COM/WEDDING

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Opposite: As guests mingled and enjoyed a pre-reception gathering, the bridal party headed to the Lake Michigan beach in nearby Frankfort for photographs. This page, clockwise: Brittany and Jason’s ceremony took place atop the ski slopes, with sweeping views of Benzie County.

Bridesmaids each wore a dress of their choice. Brittany wanted everyone to be comfortable and simply requested that colors stay within a common color scheme. Après-ceremony cocktails at the base of the mountain. Brittany’s bouquet was by Chalet Floral out of Muskegon and made with dahlias and orchids in blush pink and white with a bit of darker greenery, too.

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This page, clockwise: Guests could opt to ride a shuttle down the mountain following the ceremony, or like Brittany and Jason, take a ride on one of the chairlifts. The sign was Jason’s idea. With multiple lodging options onsite, wedding guests made a weekend of it at Crystal Mountain. The shuttle ride to Frankfort for photos with the bridal party was part of the fun.

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This page, clockwise: Not being a big fan of cakes, Brittany opted for a petite, 8-inch round cake to accompany the dessert bar. The music was by Mac Daddy of Traverse City. To set the mood for dancing at the reception, the bride and groom provided ballet flats so that women could kick off their heels and put on their dancing shoes.

“They came with a little shoe bag, and they were gone fast—I should have ordered more!” Brittany says. Guests were welcomed to their places with a hearty and heartfelt “Bon appetite.”

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Wedding Notebook CRYSTAL MOUNTAIN

accommodations Beautiful accommodations and a wide range of lodging options at Crystal Mountain will be sure to fill every guest's needs. Stay at a Celtic “castle,” a mountain top condo, 1900s-style cottage, a slopeside bungalow, a townhome set into dense hardwood forests or a cozy hotel room right at the heart of Crystal Mountain.

Some can sleep up to 10 guests and almost every one has a fireplace and inroom whirlpool tub. Magnificent

Weddings shine at Crystal.

guest services

From showers and rehearsal dinners to ceremonies, receptions and even honeymoons, Crystal Mountain has a long, glowing history of exceptional wedding events. From top to bottom, indoors and out, Crystal is a complete and wondrous wedding experience.

With award-winning wintertime skiing and splendid summer golf, your Crystal Mountain wedding can be held here any time of year, secure in the knowledge that everything will be in place for a truly memorable event. Some of the Midwest’s finest resort lodging. Versatile dining options. Complete full-service spa and fitness center. Spacious outdoor heated pool, water playground and year round hot tub. Wedding parties and guests never need to leave the grounds because it’s all right here.

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Crystal offers a comprehensive slate of services sure to please wedding parties and guests alike. Crystal Spa offers bridal party make-up services, massage, body wraps, facials, manicures, pedicures and a full range of men’s spa services as well.

We can provide a welcome bonfire, gift basket delivery, free on-site shuttle service and more. And we encourage all wedding parties to join us in lessening the environmental impact of their event by purchasing renewable energy offsets.

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event facilities

Recreation

Simply gorgeous. Choose from among many splendid ceremony and reception locations at Crystal, indoors or out.

Ceremonies can be held a the top of our mountain, where guests will arrive by chairlift, or down by the Petritz Pond Lawn, the Front Lawn under a beautiful white gazebo, tucked in the woods under the recently renovated Jessie Frohlich Amphitheater in the Michigan Legacy Art Park or inside the Crystal Center surrounded by the view of the breathtaking slopes. Receptions can be held under a Pavilion Tent, in the woods or in one of our elegant Crystal Center banquet rooms. Reception rooms feature a dance floo , table linens, skirted head table as well as gift, cake and DJ tables.

Dinners include votive candles on all guest tables. Dinners of 100 or more entitle the bride and groom to a complimentary overnight hotel room stay on the night of the reception.

Spectacular! Summer weddings mean guests can partake of Crystal’s two championship caliber golf courses, 10-acre practice facility, the Park At Water’s Edge pool and water playground, new Edge Adventure Course with elevated ropes course and zip line, miles of hiking and biking trails, Michigan’s only Alpine Slide, plus the amazing Lake Michigan shoreline and Sleeping Bear Dunes just a short drive away.

Winter guests can ski 58 beautifully groomed downhill runs, 40k of scenic cross-country trails, take a horse-drawn surrey ride, go ice skating, and snowshoeing.

Award-winning kids’, family and group activities are also available.

catering Cooked and prepared on-site, Crystal’s catering is second to none. Choose from a wide variety of dining options, offering fresh entrees using ingredients from local farms, specially designed around your needs and desires. Whether your tastes lean toward opulent full-course presentations or a delightfully simple outdoor barbeque, Crystal pulls it off with style and flair. Even going-away breakfasts can be arranged.

CRYSTAL MOUNTAIN 12500 Crystal Mountain Drive Thompsonville, MI 49683 855-546-9733 Fax: 231-378-4603 crystalmountain.com

Proprietors Petritz and MacInnes Families

Recreation Director Janice Davidson

Wedding & Special Events Sales Manager Amanda Milarch

Reception Capacity Up to 350 guests

AmandaMilarch@crystalmountain.com

Direct line is 231.378.2038 Spa Director Stephanie Scott

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Event Rooms 5 indoor, tent and outside options available Guest Rooms 246

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WORDS CAN’T EXPLAIN.

Megan Hannon Photography

Everything was perfect. It just felt so right.

This was exactly how it was supposed to be.

The beginning of our happily-ever-after.

Design a celebration that is as unique as you are, with the help of your own personal on-site wedding coordinator and full-service staff. Schedule a tour with Amanda, our wedding expert at 844.277.0193.

MAKE IT YOUR MOMENT. 844. 27 7.0193 | CRYSTALMOUNTAIN.COM

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Frog Pond Village STORY BY CARLY SIMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARA BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY

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Megan& Andy MEGAN MARTINEZ ANDY HOPPE AUGUST 29, 2015 Once classmates, this pair lost touch with each other when Megan moved from their Sterling Heights neighborhood in high school. In college, they found each other on Facebook —and love soon followed. Six years later, Andy proposed on December 24, in front of their Christmas tree.

With a romantic sendoff like that, Megan allowed herself to dream of a fairytale wedding complete with white lights, beautiful gardens and a ball gown. When she saw Frog Pond Village in Interlochen, she knew it was the perfect spot to become Mrs. Hoppe. “I grew up going Up North every summer with my family, and when Andy and I started dating we took our own weekend trips,” Megan says. “We love how beautiful it is in Northern Michigan.

It’s a hidden gem, and we knew we wanted to get married here.”

Their special day began in the Bullfrog Chapel with the wedding ceremony. The rustic charm of the rough-hewn cedar walls and elegant chandelier lighting gave Megan the magical, woodsy atmosphere she was looking for. “I wanted something outdoors and rustic, and I loved how Frog Pond Village had both the indoor option and the outdoor gardens for all of our guests to enjoy.”

After the ceremony, guests were treated to an elegant dinner from Grandview Catering. The menu included chicken

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stuffed with basil mousse and garlic-Brie braised beef with a red wine mushroom sauce. Ann Barraclough of Aunt B’s Cake and Dessert made two, four-tier masterpiece cakes—a lemon poppy cake with raspberry fi ling and buttercream frosting and a white cake with cherry fi ling and almond frosting.

“I wish I could explain how convenient this venue was,” Megan says. “They have certain vendors they work with and everything went together so well. We don’t live Up North, so it was nice to have someone to give us good referrals.”

After dinner, guests enjoyed the beautiful August evening in the gardens outside.

Grandview Catering set up a s’mores bar by the bonfi e, and guests competed in the classic Up North vacation game corn hole. “We always play that game when we go Up North with friends and family,” Megan says. Inside, guests danced under a pergola of ivy and party lights, a breathtaking ending to a beautiful day.

Surrounded by Northern Michigan woods and a heart-shaped Ellis Lake, Frog Pond Village gave Megan the fairytale wedding she had always imagined.

PHOTOGRAPHER: SARAH BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY, SARAHBROWN-PHOTOGRAPHY.COM VENUE: FROG POND VILLAGE, A FAIRYTALE GARDEN WEDDING VENUE, INTERLOCHEN, FROGPONDVILLAGE.COM

MYNORTH.COM/WEDDING

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Opposite: Ellis Lake makes an enchanting backdrop for wedding photos. This page, clockwise: The ceremony was held in the rustically elegant Bullfrog Chapel. In honor of her father, who passed away when she was young, Megan received a coin before walking down the aisle offering his love. The log cake stand was carved with Megan and Andy’s names and wedding date. The bridal bouquet included pink garden roses, lisianthus, and baby’s breath. A picture of Megan’s father, Michael Martinez, was attached to it. Megan fashioned the programs into fans for her guests.

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This page, clockwise: Pretty in pink—and white with a sparkling tiara. The cornhole board was made with chalkboard paint so guests could sign their names. Cheers!

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This page, clockwise: Megan and Andy’s wedding cakes were topped with a flag banner reading, “Love is Sweet.” The seating arrangements were displayed in greens for a woodsy feel. The couple shared their first dance to Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud.” Each guest received sunglasses with the couple’s names and wedding date on the temple. The ballroom is set up for dinner.

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Wedding Notebook FROG POND VILLAGE

event facilities

INTIMATE ELOPEMENTS

One unforgettable day— countless ways to make it yours.

Elope Up North Style; just the two of you. We have elopement packages for up to 10 guests with choice locations on property from our Lake front to our tiny chapel! You may choose from a basic elopement to a private, intimate surf-n turf luncheon or dinner to include your officiant, flowers and photographer!

Welcome to Frog Pond Village, where you will find ten acres of private landscape groomed for your special day. We offer a woodsy, yet elegant setting among towering trees, charming frog ponds, meandering walkways and beautiful gardens. Our quaint romantic wedding chapels and ballrooms are open to the outdoors. And we’ve added to the magic, Sarah Brown Photography

twinkle lights, party lights, sparkling chandeliers and enchanting water fountains.

services

We help our brides and grooms make a unique and memorable statement with flowers and décor. We coordinate your ceremony to perfection with our recommended officiants, making it meaningful and personable. Our caterer is the best in food display, taste, quality and service for a worry free evening!

Our D.J. is wonderful and will help you coordinate your reception and for sure will “make” the party. We also put you in touch with accommodations, photographers, videographers and cake designers.

We are proud to hold titles as Voted #1 Best Wedding Venue in Northern Michigan

by City Voter and #5 Best Outdoor Wedding Venue in Michigan by The Knot. Also Voted #1 Best Wedding Venue in Northern Michigan by Traverse City Record-Eagle.

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CHAPELS Include 200 of your closest family and friends to celebrate your day!

Frog Pond Village offers two larger chapels to choose from. Both allow secluded gardens and lush greens for you and your guests to enjoy. This is a WOW experience and you’ll find your photo ops right here!

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three choice locations

flowers You will love having your own florist on site! Karen, the owner, has over 25 year’s of experience, specializing in wedding flowers, creating the exact look that you want from your personal bouquets to elegant centerpieces to floating arrangements for the ponds! We have the latest trends in flowers, vases, floral lights, river rock, moss, incredible twigs, lanterns and more! Pick it from Pinterest and I bet we have it!

UNDER THE GALA TENT FOR 50 GUESTS OR LESS How fun is this! Our Road Toad Gala Tent is a relaxed party spot! It is offered for small weddings, rehearsal dinners, morning after brunches and other special events.

And yes! We have frogs!

BALLROOMS Our two ballrooms offer you rustic elegance and are open to the patio and grounds so your guests may wander in and out all evening! Party lights spill overhead into the lush green lawn and the bar area which is outdoors as well! You will feel quite at home here! Comfy bistro chairs will be waiting for you. Our ballrooms are climate controlled for your comfort as well!

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FROG POND VILLAGE 1950 Ellis Lake Rd., Grawn, MI 49637 P.O. Box 383, Interlochen, MI 49643 231-357-9128 frog@frogpondvillage.com frogpondvillage.com

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Karen Youker

Weddings Your Way... customizes your ceremony to fit your unique style creating memories that last forever!!!

Photography

“Capture the

Weddings Your Way, is Northern Michigan’s Premier Officiant Service.

moments

We perform ceremonies at resorts, wineries, beaches, or any location of your choice!

of your life”

Affordable, passionate, and professional!

www.karenyouker.com 231-269-3458

weddings-yourway.net

Specializing in Wedding Videos. Video is shot, edited and delivered in High Definition. Capture your day in motion!

Contact Zack at 231-499-1736 traversecityvideo@gmail.com

TraverseCityVideo.com

Creating unique experiences for couples in love with music A wedding reception is the capstone to one of the most important days of your life – but it’s also a party, and music is what holds that party together. If the music doesn’t deliver, people tend to leave after they’d had their cake.

With everything on your plate, let us handle this part!

Northern Michigan’s Only Boutique DJ Service 231.94.MUSIC (946.8742) • mrmusicdjs.com

Frog Pond Village Wedding Chapels and Ballrooms

Ten acres of private naturescape ... A rustic, yet elegant setting among woods, frog ponds, and gardens!

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Stafford's Bay View Inn & Perry Hotel STORY BY CARLY SIMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEATHER CISLER PHOTOGRAPHY

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Mary Kate&Adam MARY KATE FITZGERALD ADAM KEETER JULY 18, 2015 Ever since she was a little girl, Mary Kate knew she wanted to get married in Northern Michigan by the water, and last summer her dream became real at Stafford’s in Petoskey. “I remember looking at the property in January, and we were standing in a three-foot snow bank,” Mary Kate says. “I was thinking, ‘You can’t beat this view now, I can’t imagine what it will be like in July.’”

Mary Kate’s ceremony was held at the charming Bay View Inn. Set in Petoskey’s historic district, the inn offers a serene and romantic setting. Built in 1886, the elegant Victorian country inn is an enchanting escape to a bygone era. Mary Kate and Adam were married outside in the blooming gardens overlooking a stunning view of Little Traverse Bay and Harbor Springs, where the bride spent many childhood summers.

Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed cocktails spun with a Northern Michigan theme. The menu featured drinks named after iconic Up North events and attractions, such as Harbor Springs’ annual Ugotta Regatta and the M119 Tunnel of Trees.

After the cocktail hour, Mary Kate and Adam switched gears and venues, taking their reception to Stafford’s Perry Hotel in bustling downtown Petoskey. “I really wanted to do a nautical theme—J. Crew meets Kate Spade meets Lilly Pulitzer, but also with a little bit of a hipster vibe. I didn’t want it to be entirely formal; we wanted it to be elegant,

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but fun with a little bit of a Northern Michigan twist,” says Mary Kate.

Guests enjoyed the warm summer air and a magnificent view of Little Traverse Bay from the hotel’s Rose Garden Veranda. The tented terrace at the upscale hotel created a sophisticated but casual atmosphere for the evening.

For dinner, Stafford’s worked with the couple to incorporate local ingredients into the menu including Northern Michigan cherries for the salad, a whitefish entrée and cider from Tandem Ciders in Suttons Bay. Mary Kate grew up dining at another Stafford’s restaurant, the Pier in Harbor Springs. Her family celebrated her 13th birthday and rang in the 2000 New Year there. “It was always a site for big events for me,” Mary Kate says. It was only fitti g for Stafford’s to be hosting this big day too.

After dinner, guests kicked off their heels and enjoyed the weekend getaway.

The buzz of the city was perfect for a fun evening fi led with dancing, and a trolley was available to take the wedding party between the Bay View Inn and Perry Hotel. The convenient onsite lodging made Stafford’s perfect for Mary Kate and Adam's destination wedding.

PHOTOGRAPHY: HEATHER CISLER PHOTOGRAPHY, HEATHERCISLERPHOTOGRAPHY.COM VENUE: STAFFORD’S PERRY HOTEL & BAY VIEW INN, A EUROPEAN-STYLE BOUTIQUE HOTEL AND A CHARMING COUNTRY INN, PETOSKEY, STAFFORDS.COM

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Opposite: While taking pictures at Harbor Springs’ marina, a man offered to let the newlyweds use his boat. “That’s what I love about Northern Michigan, you see that sense of community and generosity,” Mary Kate says. This page, clockwise: Mary Kate and Adam are married in front of friends, family and Little Traverse Bay at the Bay View Inn. The couple handed out sunglasses to their guests with “MK & A” inscribed on them. Their programs read, “Music starts, we get married, everyone parties.” Janelle and Ellen at Smitten Events in Harbor Springs helped with planning, including making Mary Kate’s bouquet—a mix of in-season Northern Michigan flowers in shades of pink blushes and greens. The young couple included #keetermyheart on their napkins.

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This page, clockwise: Simply Sweet by Jessica in Petoskey made Mary Kate’s lemon vanilla cake covered with macaroons. Pictures of Mary Kate and Adam’s parents and grandparents on their wedding days surrounded the cake. The world-traveling couple saw a sign with “Spiritual Advisement” at a cocktail bar in London and knew they had to incorporate it into their wedding.

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This page: The Keeters shared their first dance as a married couple to “The Way I Am,” by Ingrid Michaelson. Mary Kate changed into a sweetheart dress for the reception and dancing. The gold letters added a touch of glitz and glam to the night.

The sunset over Little Traverse Bay was a perfect ending to Mary Kate and Adam’s big day.

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Wedding Notebook STAFFORD’S BAY VIEW INN & PERRY HOTEL

accommodations

Experience the grandeur and elegance of bygone era. Stafford’s Bay View Inn boasts 31 individually appointed guest rooms, signature historic charm and beautiful views of Little Traverse Bay. Stafford’s Perry Hotel offers 79 individually appointed guest rooms, tucked away in the historic Gaslight District in downtown Petoskey, and offers crystal clear views of Little Traverse Bay.

Make your wedding a truly landmark event.

We are happy to provide you an all-inclusive event encompassing your rehearsal dinner, lodging accommodations, ceremony, reception and post-wedding brunch or farewell. Every detail will be tended to by our event specialists and our promise to you is a fairy tale wedding that is limited only by your own imagination. Stafford's Bay View Inn, offers guests the grace and romance of a bygone era, set against the exquisite views of Little Traverse Bay. This charming country Inn was built in 1886 and has enchanted visitors for over 130 years. Perched high on a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan, Stafford's Perry Hotel stands as a proud symbol of the early 1900s when northern Michigan tourism

catering It centers all around the food. Always fresh, always fabulous, and often coming from local area farms. Plated entrées can be selected to complement a theme or style. Fantastic buffets lend flexibility and depth. Some of northern Michigan’s finest dining starts with Stafford’s.

was in its infancy. The Perry's unique event atmosphere and convenient downtown location provide a lively alternative to sprawling, remote resorts common to northern Michigan. We invite you to experience Stafford's signature hospitality, where yesterday and today come together.

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event facilities Weddings are a symphony of details, performed to perfection. Stafford’s offers exceptional backdrops to ceremonies, receptions, rehearsals, post-wedding brunches and luncheons. Superb indoor and outdoor venues both make for unforgettable events. Each of our venues boasts a singular feel all its own and includes Stafford’s signature service

Guest Services Our onsite event coordinators will handle everything. Guests can take advantage of our 24-hour front desks. A breakfast voucher is included with all overnight stays. Our skilled staff of professional event planners can execute your wish to perfection, or create a truly special event from the ground up.

recreation

STAFFORD’S BAY VIEW INN & PERRY HOTEL 100 Lewis Street Petoskey, MI 49770 231.348.6017 Staffords.com Stafford’s is an ideal jumping off point for all things north and just 35 miles from the Mackinac Bridge, about six hours from Chicago and four hours from Detroit.

Pellston Regional Airport is right in the backyard.

And it’s quite a backyard. Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay area is truly a state treasure. Guest can immerse themselves in this charming northern Michigan locale and sample its many intriguing tastes, season after season.

Featuring world-class golf, skiing, beaches, shopping, cultural activities, biking, fishing and boating.

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Proprietors Stafford’s Hospitality Event Coordinator/ Sales Director Angela Whitener angiew@staffords.com

Event Rooms 3 - Bay View Inn 3 - Perry Hotel Guest Rooms 31 - Bay View Inn 79 - Perry Hotel

Reception Capacity Up to 250 guests

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Dan Stewart Photography

Northern Michigan Landmark Weddings

Accommodating up to 150 guests.

Where yesterday & today come together STAFFORDS.COM 2016_WED_STAFFORDS.indd 64

• 800-737-1899 12/7/15 12:02 PM

Leland

Lodge

STORY BY CARLY SIMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY KHALID IBRAHIM, EAT POMEGRANATE PHOTOGRAPHY

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Melissa & Derek MELISSA VENUTO DEREK ROTHHAAR

SEPTEMBER 26, 2015 When Melissa Venuto was 15 years old, she spent her summer as a hostess at Leland Lodge—an experience she recalls fondly. Years later, she returned as a beautiful bride with her fia cé, Derek Rothhaar. “My parents have a cottage in Leland, so I have been going there ever since I can remember,” Melissa says. “I love Northern Michigan. It is a second home to me.”

After her parents bought the cottage in 2000, Melissa spent her summers in Leland, dividing her time between the sandy beaches of Lake Michigan and working at local businesses, including The Leland Lodge. “Once my siblings and I got older, we really enjoyed the town and how quaint it is,” Melissa says.

Forward 12 years and 1,200 miles away to Houston, Texas, where Melissa fell in love. She met Derek, who also grew up in Michigan, on Halloween weekend. They had both left their home state for work but ended up findi g each other. “I knew early on that Derek was different, that he was someone who would take care of me in good times and in bad,” Melissa says. After dating for two years, Derek proposed on November 23, 2014. It didn’t take long for the couple to decide they wanted the backdrop for their wedding to be the picturesque Lake Michigan coastal town of Leland. The venue, of course, would be The Leland Lodge where Melissa had worked as a teenager.

For the destination wedding, the wedding party and guests rented out the rooms at Leland Lodge and several cottages. “We took over the entire town,” Melissa says with a smile.

The wedding ceremony, held on Saturday, September 26, at St. Mary’s, a quaint country church in nearby Lake Leelanau, was presided over by Father Michael Janowski. The cocktail hour and reception followed at the recently

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renovated Lodge, which provided the casual but classic atmosphere Melissa was looking for. “I wanted my wedding reception to be shabby chic,” she says.

The cocktail hour was held in the lodge’s fine dining restaurant, The Wine Cellar, which also catered the dinner. Tables were set up inside two of the lodge’s banquet rooms and also outside in the tented courtyard. The Leland Lodge has become known for its food—as witnessed in the elegant dinner which began with extensive appetizers including smoked salmon and whitefish dips with crostini, a local artisan cheese platter, bruschetta, bacon-wrapped dates, sausage puff pastries, spanakopita, and caprese sticks. Dinner continued with rosemary roasted redskin potatoes, Leland Lodge’s signature salad, sautéed green beans with vinaigrette and olive oil, and filet mignon with béarnaise sauce.

Guests spent the evening on the dance floor with a local band—the John Driscoll Ensemble made up by John Driscoll, Dan Reckard, Joe Dart, and James Cornelison. Later, guests gathered around a bonfi e and were treated to s’mores and pizzas from the lodge.

But the party wasn’t over yet.

The next morning, guests enjoyed brunch catered by Sisson’s Main Street Specialties at the Old Art Building in Leland. On that warm September weekend, the couple and their guests enjoyed the irresistible charm of The Leland Lodge and the natural beauty of the Leelanau Peninsula.

PHOTOGRAPHY: KHALID IBRAHI, EAT POMEGRANATE PHOTOGRAPHY, EATPOMEGRANATE.COM VENUE: THE LELAND LODGE, A CHARMING UPSCALE LODGE, LELAND, 231.256.9848, LELANDLODGE.COM

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Opposite: Melissa wore a simple yet elegant A-line gown with beaded embroidery accents and a complementary front and back V-neckline from Vatana Watters’ Wtoo line. She found the gown at To Have and To Hold Bridal Boutique in Traverse City. This page, clockwise: The afternoon ceremony was held at St. Mary’s Church in Lake Leelanau.

The couple went to Blustone Vineyards, Fishtown, and South Beach for pictures.

Christina Pfeufer, of Field of Flowers Farm in Lake Leelanau, used dahlias, pincushion flowers, astilbe, papery ranunculus, amaranths, button buds, cabbage roses, seasonal fronds, and brunia berries for the bridal bouquet.

Melissa’s Betsey Johnson shoes were from Macy’s.

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This page, clockwise: Barnwood boxes filled with dahlias, snapdragons, amaranths, roses, wildflowers, greens and berries from Field of Flowers Farm adorned the tables, which were set with gold plate chargers and white napkins tied with gold and burlap twine. “Derek’s Mule” was an Irish Mule made with ginger beer, Jameson, lime, and mint. The “Blushing Bride” was a mix of vodka, cranberry juice, club soda, and lime. There were four cakes for dessert. Sisson’s Main Street Specialties in Leland made lemon, carrot, and chocolate cakes.

Smith’s One-of-a-Kind Edible Art in Traverse City made a white almond raspberry cake.

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This page, clockwise: The Leland Lodge has a spacious banquet room, two food venues, and a landscaped courtyard that can be used open-air or tented for receptions and/or cocktails. Fresh bruschetta was one of many appetizers offered by the lodge’s fine dining venue, The Wine Cellar.

DesignByKara made Melissa’s drop earrings.

Tracey Converse and Bethany Smith at Salon 804 in Traverse City did her hair and makeup.

The couple danced to John Legend’s “You and I.”

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Wedding Notebook THE LELAND LODGE

Exceptional Events Whether your plans are casual or a little more formal, The Leland Lodge offers the perfect venue to create unforgettable memories!

With our spacious banquet room and exceptional staff, we make any meeting, cocktail party, or reception full of lasting memories.

Accommodating up to 200+ people, our banquet venue offers space for black tie affairs to casual BBQ’s. Our exquisitely landscaped

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Leah Renee Photography in Traverse City

Khalid Ibrahim

courtyard is a great setting for a reception, cocktail hour, or ceremony.

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catering

accomodations Nestled on the beautiful Leelanau peninsula, The Leland Lodge offers an uncompromising standard of hospitality. Upon your arrival you will find an irresistible bled of Northern Michigan lodge and the tranquility of a small historical town.

The Leland Lodge is the number one wedding venue on the peninsula boasting an unsurpassed setting and amazing food fare. With two on site restaurants: Bogey’s 19th hole, an upscale casual venue and The Wine Cellar, upscale fine dining. Our culinary team can produce diverse selections of food to meet your every desire.

LELAND LODGE 565 Pearl St. Leland , MI 49654 231-256-9848 lelandlodge.com

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Event Planning Manager Katelyn VanVreede

Accomodations 18 rooms, 3 cottages

Reception Capacity 200

Venue Spaces 4

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Make Your Wedding

Uniquely Leland Whether your wedding dreams are formal or a little more casual, the

Leland Lodge offers the perfect venue to begin your life together.

Offering a more upscale concept, “The Wine Cellar” has the only private tasting room on the Leelanau Peninsula

Bogey’s is the Peninsula’s formost casual dining establishment situated on the 8th Hole of the Leland Country club. It offers many food fare options, a full complement of refreshing beverages and amazing alfresco dining options.

565 E. Pearl St. • Leland • 231.256.9848 • Lelandlodge.com 2016_WED_LELANDLODGE.indd 72

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PHOTO BY JEN KROLL

PHOTO BY WEBER PHOTOGRAPHY

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Book Your Next Event in Leelanau County with Us! From Casual Beach Weddings for 2 to Elaborate Events for 500 weddings • rehearsal dinners • vow renewals • corporate retreats • honeymoons • company picnics, bachelor/ette parties • bridal brunch • lake front lodging • wedding transportation • limo wine tours • catering all inclusive weddings starting at $995.00 WINE COUNTRY WEDDINGS AND EVENTS • 13300 SW BAYSHORE DRIVE, TRAVERSE CITY winecountryweddingsandevents.com

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JENN + BOOTH

A BROADWAY ACTRESS AND A NEW YORK CITY–BASED VIDEO EDITOR STAGE THEIR DRAMATIC WEDDING ON A DUNE OVERLOOKING LAKE MICHIGAN

The story of this very special wedding begins with the individualized invitations. The bride and groom wrote personal notes to all 47 people on their guest list, then found photos of each person and enclosed them with the notes. “We wanted them all to feel that they were specifically chosen, that this is a homespun kind of thing, and we really wanted their presence there,” says bride Jenn Dunne Keeney. “I had so many friends call me saying, ‘I am crying right now reading this invitation.’

Even Booth said he received messages from his friends like, ‘That was the best invitation ever.’”

For Jenn Dunne and Booth Keeney, the vision for their July 11, 2015, wedding in Northern Michigan had to reflect their partnership and personalities—and the people in their lives who mean the most to them. “From start to finish, we wanted it to be ‘us,’ ” she says. “What made it perfect was it was us honoring everyone that was there, making it all inclusive.”

The Backstory Jenn grew up on Old Mission Peninsula in Traverse City, Booth is from Connecticut, and they live and work in New York City. Jenn is a Broadway performer, currently starring in Chicago, the musical, and Booth is a video editor. When the couple began talking about where they’d be married, they initially figured somewhere on the East Coast.

But then Booth suggested Northern Michigan, having seen its beauty during a trip there with Jenn. “He was blown away when he saw the sand dunes,” Jenn says. “He was like, ‘Yeah, my friends have to see it. They won't believe it.’” 4 74

STORY BY HEATHER JOHNSON DUROCHER PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSE DAVID GREEN, JESSEDAVIDGREEN.COM

MYNORTH.COM/WEDDING

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This page, clockwise: A dozen children, the girls wearing flower crowns and the boys carrying hand-painted walking sticks, led the bride down the sandy path to her groom. “I asked all of my best friends from high school about having their kids, who are my heart and soul, to be part of this,” Jenn said. The bride held her parents' hands as she walked down the aisle.

You may kiss the bride—at the outdoor altar.

Guests dropped flowers at the couple’s feet as a blessing. Opposite: The 25-minute hike through the dunes to the Lake Michigan overlook was set to the sound of bagpipes. A paper cup toast seals the ceremony.

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Knowing their wedding guest list would be small and the celebration intimate, the couple decided to hold their ceremony at Arcadia Dunes Nature Preserve, on a bluff, overlooking Lake Michigan. “Our family used to go hiking and camping around there. It was one of our places,” Jenn says.

Choreography of the Heart A wealth of personalized touches captured the essence of the event: Jenn’s flowing pinkpeach bridal dress and delicate flower crown; the flea market chandelier; the deliberately mismatched china dishes used at the outdoor reception dinner at her family’s farmhouse in Leelanau County. Each touch was a product of carefully made choices. For example, Jenn decided to wear a flower crown in lieu of carrying a traditional flower bouquet so that she could hold both of her parents’ hands as she walked down her sand dune aisle. In another heartfelt touch, Jodi Hefferan of The Flower Station in Traverse City used flowers from her own garden in the crown.

Securing Detroit-based photographer Jesse Green, an in-demand artist who had impressed Jenn and Booth with his blog about photography and positive changes in the Motor City, was another important part of their day. “So much of our wedding planning was like that—we went with what our gut said, that sense of real artistic enthusiasm,” Jenn says. “We wanted people to have their heart into it."

Let the Show Begin Jenn and Booth began welcoming friends and family on Friday night, when Booth’s father (and ceremony offi iant), Dwight Keeney, hosted a meetand-greet cocktail hour at Red Ginger, a modern Asian restaurant in downtown Traverse City.

On the morning of the wedding, friends stopped by the farmhouse—owned by Jenn’s mother Debbie Dunne and her partner Gary4 wedding 2016

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Receptions Ceremonies Rehearsal Dinners at either end of Lake Charlevoix

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Your Dream Wedding Made Real

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O’Connell— to help set the table for the evening festivities. “My mom made an egg casserole, everyone came in their sweatpants and we had a lot of fun getting things ready,” Jenn says.

Later, everyone—bridal party and guests—met on the west side of Traverse City, to caravan the 50 scenic miles out to the Arcadia bluffs. Jenn was in the last vehicle, allowing Booth and a few others to arrive first to begin the 25-minute hike to the ceremony spot on dunes overlooking Lake Michigan.

The Plot Thickens “Unbeknownst to Booth, I had set up a bunch of surprises,” Jenn says. These included three things that, early on in the wedding planning, Booth had jokingly said he wanted: A storm trooper, a bagpipe player and ninja bodyguards. “He was just picking out the most outlandish things,” Jenn says. “I was like, ‘Got it.’ ” 4

This page, clockwise: The evening reception was elegant yet low-key and casual. Pie made with local fruit for dessert. The place settings were an eclectic mix of borrowed and thrift store china.

“We didn't rent any dishes,” Jenn says. “They were all borrowed from people, or we found them at Goodwill.”

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YOUR GARDEN WEDDING AWAITS TRAVERSE CITY’S NEWEST

WEDDING VENUE ~ Garden Tent Lawn ~ Open-Air Pavilion ~ Beautiful Gardens ~ Visitor Center Hall (for your bridal shower or rehearsal dinner)

RESERVE YOUR DATE NOW! www.TheBotanicGarden.org 231.935.4077

Photo by The Compass Points Here

Introducing the newly restored Cathedral Barn at Historic Barns Park Located one mile from downtown Traverse City, this unique venue creates the perfect setting for your dream wedding. Its rustic and historic charm make for an extraordinary place to celebrate your future.

Picture reciting your wedding vows outdoors in Northern Michigan, with pristine Crystal Lake as a backdrop. After enjoying dinner under the classic white wedding tent, you and your guests mingle and sip cocktails on the lush green lawns with breathtaking sunset views. Envision dancing the night away for the first time as husband and wife, surrounded by your closest friends and family.

Your special day which everyone is sure to remember.

Crystal Lake Golf Course

8493 Fairway Dr. • Beulah, MI

CrystalLakeWeddings.com 231.409.7858

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Photo by The Compass Points Here

1500 Red Drive • Traverse City, MI 49684 231.342.1526 historicbarnspark.com

MYNORTH.COM/WEDDING

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This page, clockwise: Husband and wife pose at the Leelanau County farm where the reception was held. The night was dark and starry, illuminated by cafe lights and candles. The couple’s friend, artist Ward Billeison, sang Elton John’s “Your Song,” a cappella, for their one and only dance.

Channeling the creative energy that fuels this actress, Jenn made those wishes happen: The three women hired to help serve the catered food, (donning Jenn’s grandmother’s old gingham aprons) were the ninjas. Dave O’Neil, a Native American flutist and Scottish bagpipe player from Grand Rapids, would play the pipes. And finally, while she couldn’t fin storm troopers, Jenn did come up with Jawas, the sand people from Star Wars—a feat she accomplished with the help of 501st Legion, Michigan Chapter, an organization dedicated to promoting the magic of the Star Wars movies through costuming.

“As Booth started walking in the woods, he heard the bagpipes in the distance,” Jenn says. “When he came to this place where there is a staircase in the sand, two Jawas handed him a card from me.”

Setting: Outdoor Altar Jenn and Booth chose not to have a traditional bridal party, choosing instead to involve all of the guests in the ceremony. After exchanging vows they’d written for each other, each guest placed a flower at the couple’s feet, blessing their union. Jenn then surprised Booth by singing “One Voice,” by The Wailin’ Jennys.”

By the end of the song, all the guests had joined in. A paper cup champagne toast capped the ceremony before everyone headed back through the woods, and traveled to the farmhouse for dinner, conversation, laughter and a bonfire.

HEATHER DUROCHER WRITES FROM TRAVERSE CITY. HEATHERJOHNSONDUROCHER@GMAIL.COM

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Sunday • January 10th 2016 • Lansing Center Doors open from 11am to 4pm. Fashion show starts at 2pm.

Tickets are $6 at the door.

Fashion show at 2pm featuring David’s Bridal, MW Tux, Becker’s Bridal and Sound Productions.

Come see the latest fashions including Bridal Gowns, Bridesmaids Dresses, Flower Girls & Mother of the Bride.

Don’t miss an opportunity to meet over 90 of the most sought after wedding professionals and learn new and creative ideas for your perfect wedding! Many exhibitors will be offering samples, demonstrations, and money-saving specials the day of the show. Talk one on one with the wedding experts and professionals.

Visit our Saginaw Bridal World show on Saturday, January 9, 2016 at The Dow Event Center

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BRIDES TO BE SHOWS, INC Sunday, Jan 3rd, 2016 12-3:30pm BIGGEST SHOW OF THE YEAR! FERN HILL GOLF CLUB 17600 Clinton River Rd, Clinton Twp. Sunday, Jan 10th 2016 12-3:00pm HOLIDAY INN ANN ARBOR 3600 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor Sunday, March 6th, 2016 12-3:30pm HOLIDAY INN SOUTHGATE 17201 Northline Rd, Southgate Sunday, March 13th , 2016 12-3:30pm CONCORDE INN HOTEL & BANQUET CENTER 44315 Gratiot Ave, Clinton Twp Sunday, April 10th, 2016 –12-3:30pm FORESTRE EVENT CENTER 1919 Star Batt Dr. Rochester Hills Sunday, April 17th, 2016 12-3:30pm MONAGHAN BANQUET CENTER 19801 Farmington Road, Livonia

WEDDING PLANNING MADE EASY!!

Every One of our Shows bring The Areas Top Wedding Professionals All Under One Roof at One Time!

Sunday, July 24th, 2016 12-3:30pm IACS BANQUET & CONFERENCE CENTER 43843 Romeo Plank Rd, Clinton Twp

Up To $20,000 in Prizes at Each Show!

Sunday, August 14th, 2016 12-3:30pm SHERATON NOVI 21111 Haggerty Road, Novi Sunday, October 30th, 2016 12-3:30pm MIRAGE BANQUET CENTER 16980 18 Mile Road, Clinton Twp

WWW.BRIDESTOBE.US Call to Reserve Tickets Today!

586-228-2700 ($7.00 w/reservations/$9.00 at the Door) www.facebook.com/bridestobebridalshows

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JULIE + DANI

A STAR CROSSFIT ATHLETE MARRIES THE LOVE OF HER LIFE AT SOJOURN LAKESIDE RESORT IN GAYLORD

STORY BY CARLY SIMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE COMPASS POINTS HERE, COURTNEY MICHALIK, COMPASS-WEDDINGS.COM

Julie Foucher and Daniel Urcuyo met during their freshman year at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. “It’s funny, the first time I met Dani he pulled up the CrossFit website, and I said it looked interesting. We started getting to know each other better and both ended up going to the local CrossFit affiliate.” Six years later, Dani proposed after Julie placed 3rd at the 2014 CrossFit Games in San Diego.

Beyond knowing that they wanted to be married in Northern Michigan, the couple didn’t have any specific pre-existing vision for their wedding until they started planning. “We just wanted everyone to have a really fun time,” Julie says.

They decided to turn their August 22 wedding into a weekend getaway at Sojourn Lakeside Resort in Gaylord. Tucked among the pines along the sandy shores of Dixon Lake, the rustic resort surrounded by lush gardens offered them a chance to reconnect with family and friends. Sojourn rents to only one group at a time, so the wedding party had the grounds and facility to themselves. The resort also proved tailored to this outdoorsy, fitness-centric couple. 4 wedding 2016

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This page, clockwise: Julie’s sponsor Reebok made custom white leather shoes for the bridesmaids with the couple’s wedding logo printed on them. Dani’s family brought custom handmade maracas and fans for the guests from their home in Nicaragua. After the wedding ceremony, guests enjoyed the sunny day on the lakeside patio. It was an afternoon filled with laughter and pure joy. Julie and Daniel exchanged rings and vows at St. Mary Cathedral in Gaylord. Opposite: The wedding day began with yoga by the lake.

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The wedding weekend began on Friday night with a big welcome barbeque. Friends and family celebrated Dani and Julie’s German and Polish backgrounds with brats, kielbasa, and sauerkraut. On the Saturday morning before the wedding, everyone gathered outside for a workout, paddle boarding, and yoga by the lake before breakfast.

“It was a cool way for people to spend time together and get to know each other outside of just a reception,” Julie says.

Father Don Geyman married Julie and Daniel Saturday afternoon at St. Mary Cathedral in Gaylord. The bride wore a sweetheart gown from Mimi’s Bridal Boutique in Ann Arbor. Bliss Salon in Gaylord did her hair and makeup. “The dress I found was actually the first one I tried on,” Julie says. “I went shopping on my birthday, which is the day after Christmas, with my mom, my sister and my sister-in-law. I thought this is it. It’s got lace and some sparkles, but it’s really simple.

I think it went well with being outdoors and Up North. I’m not a fancy person, so it fit me really well.”

Instead of heels, Julie wore a comfortable pair of Toms during the ceremony, in part because she had torn her Achilles tendon in May at the CrossFit Central Regionals and was still healing. “I was actually okay with [flats] because I don’t really like wearing heels anyway,” Julie says. “It was cool to be able to walk down the aisle without limping and to dance and be on my feet all night.” 4 wedding 2016

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Elizabeth Blair

FinePearls

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Clockwise: Dixon Lake provided photo ops aplenty. The maracas were a fun, festive touch to the reception, which lasted late into the night.

The bridesmaids and groomsmen also received comfy footwear—a pair of CrossFit Nanossage—post-workout lounge shoes inscribed with Dani+Julie that were gifts from the bride and groom. “Reebok is one of my sponsors as a CrossFit athlete, and they’re such a cool group of people,” Julie says. “When I knew we were getting married, I reached out to them and asked if they could do something special for our wedding party. Those are my favorite type of shoes that they make.”

After the ceremony, everyone returned to Sojourn for a cocktail hour on the patio, enjoying the couple’s signature Mojitos along with bacon-wrapped scallops, stuffed mushroom caps and spinach artichoke dip catered by BJ’s Catering in Gaylord. Afterward, a buffet-style dinner was served in Sojourn’s Great Hall, where guests enjoyed prime rib, chicken, sweet potatoes, grilled vegetables, and salad. After dinner, guests moved outside and enjoyed the Northern Michigan summer evening under the glow of twinkling lights on the lakeside patio.

CARLY SIMPSON IS WEB WRITER FOR MYNORTH WEDDINGS. CSIMPSON@MYNORTH.COM

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STORY BY CARLY SIMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL MURPHY IV PHOTOGRAPHY, MICHAELMURPHYIV.COM

MOLLY + JOSH

A BOATHOUSE ON CHARLEVOIX’S ROUND LAKE IS THE DREAMY SETTING FOR THIS SIMPLE, ELEGANT AND HEARTFELT WEDDING

In 2006, Josh Vargas left his home in California when his work brought him to Charlevoix for the summer. By the end of the season, he’d become enchanted in two ways: he’d fallen in love with Molly Arnold, a wonderful young woman he’d met in town, and he’d fallen in love with the town itself. He flew back home, packed up his things, and drove 2,500 miles back to Michigan. Nine years later, Josh and Molly got married in the Northern Michigan town they both now call home.

“I knew I loved him when he made that decision to move here for good,” Molly says. “That was a huge step very early on.

We had only known each other for two or three months. When I saw him drive across the country to come back here and start a life with me, I knew it was going to be forever.”

Josh proposed at the same spot where he first met Molly. It had been his first night in Charlevoix, and he was sitting out back on a friend’s porch. “It was also the spot where he asked me on our first date,” Molly says. It just seemed fitting to propose on the porch, too. 4 wedding 2016

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This page, clockwise: Molly’s sleek gown from BHLDN fit perfectly with the vintage boathouse covered in brilliant lights. Molly’s sister, Annie Smith, arranged the light pink and ivory flowers from BLOOM Floral Design. The flowers complemented the simple but sophisticated evening. Molly and Josh were married on a floating barge in Round Lake, while friends and family looked on. Annie, along with Josh’s brother Jacob, joined the couple on the dock during the ceremony. Opposite: Becoming husband and wife.

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For their June 20th wedding, Molly and Josh wanted to keep it simple, casual and relaxed.

Their longtime friends John and Zita Winn offered their boathouse on Round Lake in Charlevoix for the ceremony and reception. “I have known John and Zita for over 15 years,” Molly says. “I worked for them taking care of their three kids, and we have grown to be like a family. When we got engaged, they were the first people we told, and we celebrated with them first. From there on we just kind of knew that would be an awesome spot to get married.

They’re the most generous people.”

The couple was married on a barge that was trimmed in flowers and moored between two of the boathouse docks. The ceremony started at 7 p.m. and was immediately followed by the reception, which was catered by Pigs Eatin’ Ribs.

The local Charlevoix restaurant and food truck vendor served savory hors d’oeuvres including a shaved beef tenderloin crostini, ahi tuna wonton, grilled chicken satay, caprese skewers, and miniature mushroom strudels.

“Adam and Jill Kline of Pigs Eatin’ Ribs are personal friends of ours, and it is one of our favorite local restaurants,” Molly says. “We knew they would create something extra special for our celebration.” In addition, the couple had a dessert bar catered by Galley Gourmet of Bay Harbor featuring mini cheesecake, key lime pies and mini chocolate bombs. 4 wedding 2016

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After dinner, the evening was far from over. Ed McCarty of Ed’s DJ Service kept everyone dancing late into the night on the boathouse deck, and the celebration didn’t stop until 1 a.m. “It was such a party,” Molly says. “The boathouse is located right in downtown Charlevoix, so some of our guests were walking through the city, and they said the entire town could hear the music and see the lights.”

The boathouse glittered with thousands of lights—strings draped across the two boat bays, and candle-lit globes hung around the perimeter. Many of the Winns’ wooden vintage boats inside the boathouse were lined with lights along their railings to create a soft glow. “We didn’t want to take anything away from the uniqueness of the antiques in the boathouse, so we really tried to enhance them with the lighting,” Molly says.

The wooden dance floor on the deck was also covered with lights creating a beautiful outdoor experience for the guests.4

Clockwise: The centerpieces were glass vases filled with water and beach stones—many of them Petoskeys.

Cheers! The elegant bridal-gown back made a stunning statement from the dance floor. The home and boathouse from the water.

wedding 2016

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Premier Floral Design An enchanting convergence of quality and creativity

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The rest of the decorations were simple. Molly used different sized vases filled with water and Michigan stones as centerpieces on each table.

“Zita is quite a rock collector so we had all of these stones that she had handpicked from the surrounding area and Lake Michigan,” Molly says.

Keeping with the casual evening, Molly chose a classic, form-fitting ivory wedding dress with a trumpet skirt and a small train from BHLDN, Anthropologie’s wedding collection. Her grandmother’s pearls and leather strappy heels from Nine West completed the sleek look. “My favorite part was the back of the dress, which had a deep cowl,” Molly says. “I added another strand to my grandmother’s pearls that went all the way down to the top of it.” 4

wedding 2016

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Clockwise: Guests celebrated with Molly and Josh late into the night. Lifelong friend Jenny Lopez and Molly danced the night away after the bride and groom shared their first dance to “Come to Me,”

by Otis Redding.

Molly’s sister, and maid of honor, Annie Smith, made her bridal bouquet. Annie works at BLOOM Floral Design and put together a stunning arrangement of peonies, roses, scabiosa, draping greens and flowing ribbons. “The bouquet was absolutely spectacular,” Molly says. “It was so big I almost couldn’t hold it with one hand.”

Josh worked with Christopher Struble of Arlington Jewelers in Petoskey to create a beautiful and sentimental ring for Molly. When she was younger, Molly’s father passed away, and her mother kept his gold band. Josh and Chris took both of her parents’ bands and redesigned them into a piece for Molly.

“It’s so meaningful to have my parents’ wedding bands,” Molly says. “We are a very close family, and it was hard not to have my dad there on my wedding day, but incorporating his wedding band along with my mom’s into my setting, really made it feel like a part of him was there. When my mom offered their rings to Josh and me, it really felt like a special blessing from both of them.”

Molly and Josh’s relaxed Charlevoix boathouse wedding was exactly what the couple wanted: a celebration. The beautiful setting on Round Lake, the dazzling lights, and the presence of their closest friends and family truly made it a special day for the lovely couple.

CARLY SIMPSON IS WEB WRITER FOR MYNORTH WEDDINGS. CSIMPSON@MYNORTH.COM

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Unique Gems & Jewelry

Welcome to Korner Gem, a full service jeweler located in Traverse City, Michigan. Korner Gem has been in the industry of creating one of a kind pieces for over 30 years. We carry some of the finest and most extensive collections of gems and natural stones in the Traverse City area.

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Take Everyone’s Breath Away You found your perfect match to marry; now it is time to find the perfect match to get married in. Let us give you the ideal experience every bride deserves while searching for her dream dress.

TO HAVE & TO HOLD BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

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Let Kirkbride Hall’s historical charm act as the stunning backdrop for your memorable wedding. Centered in the heart of The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, Kirkbride Hall can accommodate receptions of 160 guests or ceremonies up to 250 guests. Kirkbride Hall’s character, charm and historic significance will elevate the senses and leave your guests in complete awe. Call to schedule a private tour!

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We are a full service flower shop serving the Grand Traverse area.

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Your Wedding guests will relax and enjoy their stay in our newly renovated and modern rooms. Start your morning with a hot breakfast, compliments of the Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott.

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Create a unique and lasting memory for your boutique wedding. Choose from our warm and inviting indoor 2,000 sq ft hospitality room or an intimate outdoor setting amongst the vineyards and sparkling blue bays. Elopement, vow renewal, Champagne Brunch, and wine rehearsal dinner packages also available. We can design your own private label wedding wine.

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Cadillac Tuxedo LLC is dedicated to helping you pick out the perfect tuxedo for any occasion! We have a wide selection of colors (even camouflage) for you to choose from, many of which are on display in the store so you can see them in person before making any decisions!

We fit everyone and take the time to make our measurements to ensure your tux is perfect for your special event!

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Design the Perfect Ring at Saturn Gems!

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Bridesmaid and Groomsmen’s Gifts Made to Order - Or Browse our Vast Selection of Citizen Eco Drive Watches and Beautiful Diamond and Gemstone Jewelry.

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Your Romantic Setting Up North

For wedding floral creations as unique as you are Benzie County’s only floral wedding showroom

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We can accommodate up to 150 people for sit down dinner with additional space for tent set up. We are located in Williamsburg, Michigan, close to Lake Michigan and 10 minutes from beautiful Downtown Traverse City.

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wedding receptions | rehearsal dinners | private parties Abundance Catering helps you provide your favorite flavors at your event. We utilize the local farms for the abundance of fresh produce available in Leelanau County and infuse local beer and wine flavors in signature dishes.

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Don’t miss out on next year’s Downtown Bridal Show on January 8, 2017 downtown traverse city l downtowntc.com l 231.922.2050 #downtowntc

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ge at Verterra Vineyards d i R e h T g n i c u Introd Create your marriage celebration with our seasoned event team in a beautifully designed tent and event center, complete with bridal suite, indoor bathrooms and catering center, high on a ridge surrounded by vineyards in full view of Grand Traverse Bay, Lake Michigan and the hardwood forests of Northern Michigan.

Enjoy your private celebration, magnificent water views, sunsets and tranquility of the Milky Way. 100% Pure Leelanau conveniently located outside of Traverse City.

The Ridge is booking dates for the 2016 season, hosting weddings and special events for up to 300 guests.

Celebrate your love atop a high ridge overlooking vines, hardwood forests, and the waters of Lake Michigan and Grand Traverse Bay. Toast your love with Verterra’s award winning wines in a vineyard setting at The Ridge at Verterra Vineyards on Swede Road.

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Dear Brides and Grooms, As you plan your upcoming wedding celebration, I invite you to consider Mission Point Resort.

With an outstanding Mackinac Island waterfront location; relaxed, welcoming ambiance; and a real dedication to service, Mission Point is an ideal choice for weddings of all sizes up to 500 guests.

You can choose from a wide variety of ceremony locations and reception venues, many with outstanding views of Lake Huron, both indoors and outdoors.

With an intense and growing focus on locally sourced foods, Mission Point offers creative, elegant culinary choices in all of our event spaces, organized by our dedicated Weddings Team. There is a great mix of guest rooms and suites, multiple on-site restaurants and many onsite activities and amenities, including bike rental, tennis, swimming pool, spa, water-side putting course, movies, kid’s arcade, and lawn games.

Please do not hesitate to contact our dedicated Wedding Consultants at 906847-3000 to further assist you.

Looking forward to welcoming you to the island, Bradley McCallum General Manager 906-847-3002

Experience the magic Picture Perfect Up North Weddings.

800.833.7711 | www.missionpoint.com MISSION POINT MACKINAC ISLAND

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