Fall Wedding at Fernwood Botanical Garden
I was expecting Fall / Autumn colors for Mike and Jennifer's outdoor wedding at Fernwood Botanical Garden and this hideaway in Niles, Michigan did not disappoint. This nature preserve is a special place where people, plants, and nature come together. Several mini gardens are surrounded by a forest area with tall trees and many different paths leading to hidden areas such as a water wheel with a river and bridge. This was the perfect setting for Mike and Jennifer who were looking for earthy looking wedding photos featuring them surrounded by nature.
My assistant and I arrived early and started taking detail shots of the unique Fall wedding decorations that were set up in the outdoor tent area that would serve as the reception hall for family and guests.
Soon the groom and his groomsmen arrived for photos. They took a stroll through the wooded area of Fernwood as we awaited for the bride's arrival and the much anticipated first look.
I have had some real touching first looks this wedding season, everywhere from Lake County Fairgrounds to Centennial Park and I'm happy to say that this streak continues with Jennifer and Mike. Just look at the grooms face as he sees his bride for the first time!!
We let the anticipation build as the bride slowly walked toward her soon to be husband as friends and family cheered them on.
We then walked deep into the forest area at Fernwood Botanical Garden taking bridal party shots along with portraits of our beautiful bride surrounded by the wonderful colors of the Fall season.
I left the couple alone for awhile to soak in the beauty of the area while I took candid images of their moments together.
Soon it was time for the outdoor ceremony to begin and the groom got last minute advice from his mom. Okay, I admit it, I goaded her into giving him a lecture!! Either way, it was a fun shot. :)
The outdoor reception was held under an open air tent and featured earthy, homemade furniture for guests to lounge in while drinking wine and tasting delicious desserts.
I hope you have enjoyed this sneak peek look at Mike and Jennifer's outdoor Fall wedding at Fernwood Botanical Garden in Niles, Michigan. Stay tuned to this Journal and give the Region Weddings Facebook Page a like for more photo updates.