Oh my goodness you guys, this wedding was so, so, sooooo amazing!  I knew shooting a wedding on New Years Eve was going to be different and special like only NYE can make something, but nothing prepared me for just how special it would be.  Let me tell you a little bit about Francesca & Ted.  I met with them sometime early last year and I remember thinking they were an adorable and connected couple.  And then I pulled into my driveway and checked my email and saw that Francesca had emailed me a link to a video.  The video was of the day Ted proposed.  He sent her on a scavenger hunt that was so personal and loving and nurturing, I crossed my fingers they would choose me to document their day.  Thank goodness they did, because I got to then witness their kind of love in person.

Their wedding day was pretty freaking cold, just as pretty much ever NYE in Michigan is.  Luckily, their rooms had balconies that overlooked the city and we were able to photograph them up there – beautiful views and super close to a warm room ;)  Fran’s girls received shrugs as gifts and Fran wore a gorgeous borrowed white stole that we lovingly referred to as “The Bear”.

Ok, so I mentioned the personal touches, but I have to go through all of the ones that I know of.  As the sappy person I am, these personal touches are always my favorite part.  First, Francesca’s bouquet and all of her bridesmaid’s bouquets were made from broaches she received from family and friends (along with a few from antique stores).  Also, and this is probably the sweetest thing I’ve seen, she wore charms on her shoes with photos of her late father in them, so even though he wasn’t physically there, he still walked her down the aisle.  Their ceremony was almost completely candlelit.  They passed out candles to each of the guests  to hold during the ceremony and when they had their first kiss, they were instructed to blow the candles out.  Lastly, in honor of her Father, the song Shout was played during the Father/Daughter dance (it was a favorite song that he would always dance to at weddings) and all guests came and joined the newlyweds for a dance.  Every.Single.Guest.  It was amazing and I thought my heart was going to burst.

Fran & Ted, thank you so much for letting me into your lives and trusting my vision.  Your day was so special to be a part of and it’s not one I will soon forget.  Congratulations again!  xo, e

Francesca, Dental Hygienist
Ted, Engineer

12.31.2015

Wedding in three words: Elegant, Breathtaking, and Romantic

Francesca’s  favorite memory of the day: The whole day was my favorite! But after one year of talking about my dress and Ted having no clue what it entailed, there was much anticipation built up. After getting ready all morning, I was thrilled to finally reveal my bridal look to him and see his reaction. This did not take away the amazing feeling of walking down the isle and seeing the emotional side of him. I loved that everyone at our wedding got on the dance floor and shared my “father/daughter dance”. It was truly an amazing feeling of support when you are trying to stay positive through the very emotional parts.

Ted’s favorite memory of the day: Francesca had been speaking about her dress for a year so the “grand reveal” was one of my favorite memories of the day. I was finally able to see my future wife looking absolutely gorgeous in her dress. Along with this, the candle lit wedding ceremony was beautiful. Followed by an awesome time with family and friends.

Wedding planning advice for newly engaged couples: Don’t sweat the small things. Remember what the day is really about. Enjoy the whole experience from all the planning, the day of the wedding, and every moment after. Stay true to yourself and what you guys like or don’t- we got away with no flowers or cake! Remember it’s your day and you only get to do this once!

Honeymoon location: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

The Jams

Grand Entrance: Chris Brown-Five More Hours
First Dance: Blake Shelton- God Gave Me You
Father/Daughter: Isly Brothers- Shout
Mother/Son: Kenny Chesney- Don’t Blink

After being together for nearly eight years along with being high school sweet hearts, we finally tied the knot!

Ceremony & Reception: Andiamo | Warren, Michigan

Florist: Viviano’s Flower Shop

DJ: Tim Montey
Videographer: 11-4 Productions

Bridal Gown Designer: Eve of Milady
Bridesmaid’s gown: Camille La Vie
Groom’s suit: Calvin Klein
Hair: Biundo’s Salon-Nini
Makeup: Biundo’s Salon-Josephine

Second Photographer: Shauna Wear