Mackinac Island was the first of my two destination weddings this September. I’d heard how beautiful it was but I’m not sure I was totally prepared for the uniqueness of the island and what a great backdrop it would provide for Nicole + Frank’s Labor Day weekend wedding. I arrived a couple days before the wedding day to get the lay of the land and take in all the island had to offer. A bike trip around the perimeter of the island on a spectacularly sunny day helped me get my bearings. There are no motorized vehicles allowed on the island and it’s been that way since 1898. So the choices are biking, walking or horse-drawn carriage. We did all three.

The entire wedding stayed at the reception venue, the Mission Point Resort on the south east end of the island. The whole place was scenic but it was hard to beat the views of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron almost no matter where you looked. We began the day at the spa on the grounds of the resort and after quick first look we took off all over town in a horse-drawn carriage to create bride & groom portraits. A special shout out to my roomie for the weekend (and fabulous 2nd shooter) Molly Riley who recommended me to her friend Nicole + Frank and as a Michigan native helped me navigate all weekend long (including where to find the best fudge!!). Carrying photo equipment and riding next to the driver of a horse drawn carriage is just a little precarious. But totally worth it. Some of my favorite photos from the day were when I had the couple walk down Main Street in their wedding gear. To say they got a reaction from the crowds as we made our way through town is an understatement. We also took full advantage of the majestic views all over the island. The ceremony was held in the Somewhere In Time Gazebo, famous from the movie of the same name that was filmed on the island in 1979 and overlooks the island at points through the trees. Officiated by the bride’s siblings, the ceremony was funny and emotional. Another carriage ride back to the hotel and the party began. The couple’s nautical theme was a perfect fit since they are avid sailors. And they really couldn’t have picked a more perfect location to tie the knot.

Wedding venue Somewhere In Time Gazebo

Reception  Mission Point Resort 906-847-3000

Florist St Ignace Greenhouse  906-643-9480

Hair and makeup Lakeview Salon 906-847-3000

DJ Northern Entertainment Consultants 517-505-2616

Cake Bella e Dolce 231-625-8232