Leah + Graham - A Backyard DIY Wedding

This one was special. Leah + Graham invited us up to Saginaw, Michigan to be a part of their wedding weekend, which took place in Leah's mom's backyard (aka garden). They planted wildflowers which were used for the bouquets, they planted vegetables which were used for dinner, and they planted goodwill and joy in the hearts of everyone who attended.

We just love the all-hands-on-deck approach to weddings. Getting your family involved produces a genuine response of love, commitment, and care from the people closest to you, and this was so evident all weekend. Leah's sister picked veggies, while Graham's mom mixed sangria. Graham assembled the sweetheart tent while his best friends set up the ceremony audio. Leah's mom delicately arranged the decorations lining the aisle and the cocktail party. Her uncle smoked a pig. It was beautiful to witness.

Add to all of that a threat of rain, and you'd think panic and frustration might take over, but the way their families handled everything was graceful and patient. The rain also gave us an excuse to come back the following day for portraits in the sun.

Proof that simplicity wins and family is first.

Alana + David - Old Courthouse Wedding

Torrential downpours, sunshine, snow, wind, and clouds. We pretty much saw the full weather spectrum.

No one really wanted to spend much time outside, so the bridal party decided it was time for shots. Alana convinced Butcher and the Brewer to open their doors just for us. You can get away with a lot when you're in a wedding dress.

We walked to our hotel at the end of the night with signs blowing off buildings and our bodies at a 45° angle.

Alana was gorgeous, and their love was tangible, but If we could make a day like this pretty, we can make anything pretty. Bring it on.

What a way to start the season.