By a Michigan Wedding Photographer Based in Grand Rapids – The Wild Phern
When Kristen and Kelley reached out about having me document their small elopement in the woods of Northern Michigan, I knew it was going to be special. As a Michigan wedding photographer, I’ve seen celebrations of every size, but there’s something about intimate days like this where it’s just the couple and a few of their closest people that hits differently. No pressure. No timeline chaos. Just real connection and a whole lot of heart.
They chose to spend the day surrounded by the quiet beauty of Northern Michigan. Honestly, it suited them perfectly. The entire celebration felt cozy, intentional, relaxed, and beautifully them. Every moment felt personal, unrushed, and grounded. It was the kind of day that reminds you what weddings are truly about.
A Ceremony That Felt Like Home
Their ceremony was tucked into the woods, wrapped in quiet, earthy tones and the soft rustle of leaves. No arches, no installations. Just two people promising forever in the most grounded way possible. Their friends stood around them, witnessing their vows and cheering them on with the kind of joy only long-time friends can bring.
It was simple, emotional, intentional — everything an elopement should be.
Portraits in the Forest and Along the Water
One of the best parts about elopements is the freedom to explore without rushing. After the ceremony, we made our way to the nearby beach. Kristen and Kelley trusted me completely, which meant we could play with movement, prompts, and candid moments that brought out their natural chemistry. These two move together in a way that tells its own story.
Light, Color, and Intention in the Woods
One of my favorite parts of being a Michigan wedding photographer is working with every type of lighting Michigan throws at us. Instead of golden hour, we had soft overcast skies at the beach. The clouds acted like a giant natural diffuser that their portraits this dreamy, even glow. Overcast sessions are secretly one of my favorites because the colors stay true and the skin tones stay clean.
But the magic didn’t stop there. Later, their first dance happened in the woods with only a bonfire and string lights illuminating the scene. Low-light moments like this are where experience really matters. I adjusted my settings, shifted my angles, and used the fire’s warmth as a natural spotlight to keep the photos vibrant and emotional without losing the atmospheric mood of the moment. Whether it’s soft cloud coverage, harsh midday sun, or a dimly lit wooded clearing, my goal is always the same: keep the images true-to-life, intentional, and filled with movement so you can feel the emotion long after the moment passes.
A Celebration That Proves Simple Can Be Stunning
What I loved most about this day was how unfussy it was. There was no pressure to perform or follow tradition. They just wanted to be fully present with each other, celebrating in a way that made sense for them. It’s the kind of experience I hope more couples consider when dreaming up their version of the perfect wedding.
If you’re planning an elopement in Northern Michigan, or anywhere else Michigan’s beauty decides to surprise you, I’d love to document it. I’m based in Grand Rapids but always available for travel — whether that’s deep in the woods, along the water, or anywhere your story wants to unfold.
