Anyone else nursing a serious Halloween hangover?! I think it’s a combo of an unusually active and late Sunday night, too much candy, and perhaps some allergies floating in – but I am in a FOG today. Trying to push it out though because yesterday was one of my FAVORITE Halloweens we’ve had in a while! We opted to do a family-themed costume (Trolls World Tour if you are intrigued) and the weather was just PERFECT. Brookland turned OUT – with so many decorations, candy shoots, and kids abound. It really just felt like the closest thing to normal in a really, really long time. The kids were SO happy (even if the end of the night was a crash landing into bedtime refusal, lol). I’ll remember this one fondly.
It’s somehow November and Fall wedding season is REALLY here. Loving this inspiration shoot we have today though – reminding me already of those warm summer days ;)
This intimate wildflower wedding styled shoot was held in August 2020. I wanted to create something that felt fitting to the space and the time, and to show that couples can still have a beautiful wedding with a small guest list. Everything came together organically and locally, as if by design, and truly was a melding of all the participating vendors.
The venue chosen because it is a certified organic farm and has sustainable infrastructure including solar powered lighting, energy efficient buildings, and an abundance of Michigan-native wildflowers and prairie grasses. It is the perfect backdrop for a sustainable wedding.
We used white stoneware dinner plates, vintage bread & salad plates, and white/gold flatware to complete the natural al fresco look of the shoot. The vases set in wood were a great tribute to natural elements, as are the farm tables & chairs. Everything is re-usable, which of course is a sustainable practice. The ceremony structure enhances the natural backdrop without overwhelming the beauty of our surroundings.
Ornate sprays of pressed florae seem to freeze the beautiful cake in time, at least until the aromatic temptation of quality local ingredients reminds you this cake was made to be enjoyed. The brown sugar spice cake was macerated with Amaretto, layered with fresh Michigan blueberry preserves, and smoothed over with French buttercream.
With the overarching theme being all about nature and sustainability we wanted the dress to reflect that. We partnered with The Brides Project, a nonprofit bridal store in Ann Arbor, MI, to source the most perfect dress. They take gowns that have been donated from past brides, bridal salons and designers and sells them to raise money for the Cancer Support Community of Greater Ann Arbor. Staffed by volunteers, TBP offers brides an eco- and socially-conscious option when shopping for their dream dress. We chose a flowy A-line gown with the most delicate organza skirt and embroidered illusion bodice. Not only is this dress the perfect mix of romance and modernity, but it gives back to the community!
The artist went as natural as possible in the makeup, keeping the emphasis on the lashes and making the bride’s skin glow. The lips were a sheer stain to keep it similar and get a natural lip. For hair, we kept it organic and whimsical. A crown braid was created, and wildflowers were added in at the end to bring in the outdoors and the organic nature of the venue.
Vendors:
Photographer: Captured by Kelsey Photography | Venue: Robin Hills Farm | Caterer: Wesley’s Catering | Cake: Kitchen Little LLC | Rentals: Modernly Events | Calligraphy: Pop Fizz Klink | Dress Store: The Brides Project | Jewelry: Jewelry Set in Stone | Hair Stylist & Makeup Artist: Crystal Drake Artistry |
