Nichols Arboretum Wedding

I remember receiving the original email from Sarah regarding her wedding. The email had this overtone of warmth and kindness that was so evident, I knew spending time with her would be like spending time with an old friend. As we sat for hours and closed down the coffee shop, my gut feeling was right. She was just as kind and just as beautiful in person as she was in her words. Like almost every couple this year, we had a whole wedding planned before Covid hit. Also like every couple, the changes only heighted the day. Truly, her day was perfect. Sarah and Mack were relaxed, appreciative, and focused on the moment and each other. Their wedding had beautiful elements to serve as the backdrop for their day: bridal prep with Sarah’s friends, a first look with Mack at the Nichols Arboretum, photos at the iconic University of Michigan Law Quad, musical serenades, a longtime friend as an officiant, and a sunset kiss.

As Sarah put on her finishing touches, Mack was patiently waiting at Nichols Arboretum for his bride. As I approached to set up their first look, a genuine smile came over Mack; he was excited to see his bride. Despite being such a popular and excited place, we found a private area for Sarah and Mack to share their first look. Mack’s smile only grew bigger.

After their first look, we moved around Nichols Arboretum and captured some of the beautiful fall colors.

After our time at Nichols Arboretum, we met up with their bridal party at the U of M Law Quad.

With their photos wrapping up in Ann Arbor, we headed to a private residence for an intimate ceremony.

This moment was one of the most touching of the wedding. Sarah paused on her way to the altar to pay respect to her late father.

One of the things I loved about Sarah and Mack’s wedding was the personal touches. Their officiant was a long-time friend. She incorporated all kinds of light-hearted stories and information about them, including their biggest faults. According to Sarah, Mack’s biggest fault is that he keeps the kitchen too clean. According to Mack, Sarah’s biggest fault is her recycling game isn’t perfected. Something tells me they will be okay in the long run.

With a ring, a kiss, and a little celebration, Sarah and Mack were married.