Exquisite Spring Wedding | Mark + Rachel

I have been thinking about this blog post for several weeks. And I already know I will not have the right words to adequately explain how much I adore Mark and Rachel or their extraordinary wedding day. But I will try my best to convey all we experienced!!

Mark and Rachel’s gorgeous wedding day was one we looked forward to for a long time. It was the first wedding of my busy season! And, let me say it kicked my spring off in the most incredible way!

We often describe our couples as joyful and life-loving but Mark and Rachel are the epitome of both things. The minute her email popped into my inbox I knew this would be one for the books. They’re the sort of people you want by your side, the kind who make anyone feel welcome the moment you walk into a room. They are genuine, selfless, kind, and full of grace and nothing describes them better. The mutual respect and adoration they have for each other inspires everyone around them. Mark and Rachel’s wedding day at his family farm was full of the love of so many amazing family members.

When Brian and I arrived that morning, we were super excited that the weather was cooperating. It was a cloudy day with a slight breeze. We walked into a bridal suite filled with contagious joy, Rachel did a first look with her stepdad and there was not one moment of stress or overwhelm. One of my favorite things about these two is how much tradition and symbolism was woven throughout their wedding day. A bit of lace from her grandmother’s wedding dress sewn into her bouquet, the chocolate barn, and the groomsmen dance. This wasn’t just a day celebrating these two, but a joyful coming together of two families. It steeped traditions in love and respect, two ingredients essential for a love that goes the distance.

I think I cried more throughout this wedding day than any other I’ve photographed. From the first look to most thoughtful vows, the letter to their son, and the most heartfelt daddy daughter dance. We experienced a daddy daughter dance that was pure selfless and heartwarming. Because Rachel’s dad had gone before us, she danced with her brother. But she also shared it with her maid of honor who never had the chance to dance with her dad. As Rachel said “never pass up an opportunity and never pass up an opportunity to give one.” That moment was full of raw emotion and we were lucky enough to have the honor to capture every moment. This still gives me chills and bring tears to my eyes!

The one thing that kept resonating throughout their entire day was love, traditions, and family. We were so lucky to have been a small part of it all, and as I have said to Brian several times. “I love surrounding myself with other couples who put love first and who make me a better person by just being in the same room as them because love wins.” We are so blessed to know Mark and Rachel and even luckier to call them friends!

Mark & Rachel, where to begin?! Your wedding day left me higher than a kite. Brian & I adore you both and count it the utmost privilege to have been there to capture your wedding day! It was such an absolute joy from start to finish, and the only thing better than having been there on the day of is that we continue to see you both as friends. We love you both so, SO much!!!

Farm inspired wedding details

Bridal farm wedding details

Bridesmaid dress details

Wedding details at J-Hill Farms

J-Hill Farms Wedding details

Bride with mother getting ready at J-Hill Farms

Mother zipping brides dress J-Hill Farms

Groom reading letter from bride

Bride reading letter from groom

Bride smiling while reading letter from groom

Bride reading letter from groom by barn

Groom watch details

groom portraits on family farm

Groom portraits in front of tractor

Bridal bouquet wood flower details

Bride portraits looking over shoulder

Bride portraits smiling looking over shoulder

Bride portraits standing looking at bouquet

Bride portraits smiling

Bride portraits West Branch MI

Groomsmen walking at J-Hill Farms

Groomsmen walking with groom J-HIll Farms

Bridemaids with blue dress and wreaths

Bridesmaids prepping bride J-Hill Farms

Mother kissing daughter on wedding day

Mother looking at bride laughing

Wedding photography bridal portraits

Wedding photography details

Wedding photography details

Wedding photography ceremony

Wedding photography ceremony

Wedding photography ceremony

Wedding photography ceremony

Wedding photography ceremony

Wedding photography ceremony

Wedding photography ceremony

Wedding Photography couple portraits

Wedding Photography couple portraits

Wedding Photography couple portraits

Wedding Photography couple portraits

Wedding Photography couple portraits

Wedding Photography couple portraits

Wedding Photography couple portraits

Wedding Photography couple portraits

Wedding Photography couple portraits

Wedding Photography couple portraits

Wedding Photography couple portraits

Wedding Photography first dance

Wedding Photography cake

Wedding Photography reception

Wedding Photography reception dancing

Wedding Photography reception dancing

Wedding Photography reception dancing

Wedding Photography reception dancing

Family portraits at wedding reception

Family portraits at wedding reception

Bride and groom walking with son at reception

Bride and groom kissing during sparkler exit at Knights of Columbus

Wedding ceremony details

Ceremony Venue: J-Hill Acres Farm

Reception Venue: Knights of Columbus

Bridal Prep Suite: Branham’s Jewelry East Tawas

Videographer: Kwakoo Productions

Groom’s Attire: Jim’s Wearhouse

Bride’s Attire: Becker’s Bridal

Wedding Decor: Glass Slipper

DJ: Rusch Entertainment

Make-up: Ashley Flowers

Hair: On Pointe Salon and Wax Bar

We can’t wait to learn more about you!

Ready to swap sweet little stories?