July 27 started like any other late summer day in Michigan. Cool and overcast. Wait, what? Cool and overcast? Yes. Their beautiful outdoor wedding on Holland, Michigan’s beautiful Windmill Island was cloudy and cool. Naturally, we were overjoyed – it was PERFECT for photos, and cooler weather kept everyone more comfortable! If you don’t know this location, it’s a beautiful display of all things “netherlandish” in one location. For the girl whose family “komen uit Nederland” it is a fun place to be, if I can’t be back in de moederland. For Nicole & Riley, it was beautiful lavish gardens and an amazing space to celebrate their love with all their family and friends.
Dan and I started our day as I joined Nicole at Salon Cheveux in Holland and Dan joined the guys at New Holland Brewing Company. Seems about a perfect start to the day, doesn’t it? As they each prepared for the afternoon, they took time to really enjoy each minute with the people closest to them.
As Nicole slipped into her gown, we all oohed and ahhhed as we looked at the intricate work that her mother had put into making this gown truly unique. A simple gown was transformed into an amazing masterpiece by the hours and hours her mother spent sewing individual beads and lace to the dress, making it a one of a kind, made with love. There were so many elements to this wedding that brought in touches of their family history history, combined with a splash (ok, more than a splash) of purple. As Nicole’s maid of honor reminded us during the toast, purple is clearly Nicole’s favorite color.
Nicole & Riley had a tender first look, and then we, along with the awesome videographer team of Sloan and Jenna from Boy Meets Girl Visuals (they were OUR wedding videographers), ran around the island, and then even took a trip down to the the docks in Holland….where just short of a veil disaster, we made some lovely wedding day memories together.
Probably the sweetest, most tender moment of the day was Nicole’s first look with her dad. This is a daddy-daughter relationship that will make you laugh and bring you to tears, often at the same time. It was an honor to watch it, to capture it, and to see the love they have for each other.
Before the ceremony we were able to capture all the wedding party pictures, the family pictures, making it possible for everyone to go straight from their sweet ceremony right into the celebration. Well….not before we took the horse & carriage around the island and made friends with a little herd (is it a herd?) of young frisian horses. We might have all been a little bit excited about this. Nicole is a horse lover, and I’ve become one….at least from a photography standpoint. They are such beautiful creatures, and well, as you may see in a picture….they enjoy bouquets even more than I do.
After a tasty meal provided by Hope College Catering, the guests were wowed by the tunes of Sweet J Band. It’s always a treat when we get to experience live music at a wedding, and Nicole & Riley’s guests definitely enjoyed the beautiful celebration with them.
As we wrapped up our night with them, we knew we had spent an amazing day with two amazing people….well, with a lot more than just two. Nicole & Riley, your friends & family are a wonderful reflection of who you are – sweet, funny, engaging, entertaining and welcoming. We loved being a part of your day, and thank you for including us!
