Inn at St. John’s Wedding – Plymouth, Michigan
Leah & Chris’s Wedding at the Inn at St. John’s
Full disclosure: I may be a little bias regarding this wedding; Leah is my cousin. Still, I think every aspect around this day was beautiful and am so happy she married truly, her best friend and someone who compliments her and has encouraged her to grow and develop as a person. I am so happy for you two! Welcome to the family Chris!
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Nearly one year ago, I was busy shoveling 18 inches of snow wearing a seemingly odd combination of clothing – shirt, tie, and a snow hat. I received a text: “Brian! We booked the Inn at St. John’s for our wedding. Exactly a year from today! Do you have it available?” I stopped, laughed, and responded, “Yes! I am actually there right now shooting a wedding! I will send you pictures so you can see what it looks like in the winter.” I went back to shoveling, prepping a path and spot for the bridal party to take photos in the courtyard. I couldn’t help smiling the rest of the day. It is one thing to be asked to photograph a wedding; it is an honor and responsibility that I don’t take lightly. The photographer spends more time with the bride and groom than anyone else. We literally get unrestricted access to the best, most emotional, most intimate parts of the day. It is an amazing experience. To have that opportunity and to give images to someone who you have grown up with is truly a gift. Needless to say, I couldn’t wait for their wedding.
Chris and Leah’s wedding took place at the Inn at St. John’s. Our morning started off with Leah getting ready with the help of her mom and bridesmaids.
Once Leah’s hair and makeup were done, it was time for her to step into her dress.
Chris and Leah accidentally wrote their notes to each other in the wrong card. There is always something that goes wrong on a wedding. If theirs was writing in the wrong card, I will take it!
Once Leah was dressed, it was time for Chris to get ready. Chris was calm and jovial while he got ready.
I wanted to capture Chris’s calm demeanor in a portrait that Leah would immediately know and love.
Next, it was time for their first look. They decided to have their first look off site so it would be more intimate. Chris was patiently waiting when we arrived and was excited to finally see his bride.
Once Leah saw Chris, her infectious laughter filled the air as both of them were all smiles.
After their first look, we headed back to the Inn at St. John’s for some bridal party and family formals. 
Moments before guests were invited into the chapel, Leah enjoyed the view from the balcony and looked regal. The dramatic, directional light from the stained glass windows exemplifies her beauty.
Next, it was time to get married!
Following the ceremony, guests were invited to a lively cocktail hour outside of the Grand Ballroom.
With the guests in their seats, it was time for Leah and Chris’s grand entrance.
Chris and Leah opened up the dance floor, enjoying their first dance as husband and wife.
Once the formal dances were open, guests never left the dance floor.
Congratulations Chris and Leah on your beautiful wedding at the Inn at St. John’s. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to play a special part in it. I hope you enjoy the photos for many, many years to come.
