Chelsea Michigan Elopement | Loren & Mariette

Monday is not your typical day of the week to get married, but Loren and Mariette couldn’t have picked a better day for their Chelsea, Michigan elopement. They invited me to their beautiful home which sat on a hilltop overlooking Cavanaugh Lake. The vibrant autumn colors of the trees danced across the lake making for a dazzling backdrop. Seriously it was perfect.

The day started with arrival of Mariette’s parents. We hung out in their living room chatting for a bit. Then it was time for Mariette to change into her wedding dress. I captured a few photos of her putting on the finishing touches before she walked out to her groom. The vibe was so relaxed. I got to watch them recite their vows to one another while her parents looked on from the comfort of the couch. The six of us were the only people sharing in their commitment to each other. It was such a beautiful moment.

When their vows were over, a few heartfelt tears ran down their cheeks as they had their first dance as husband and wife. Loren and Mariette cut the cake and signed the marriage license. Fun fact: Mariette and I have the same birthday! Yay for April babies! I knew there was a reason we got along so well.

The family hanging out in the living room before the ceremony
Mariette peeking around the corner to look at Loren
White lace dress hanging in front of a window overlooking Cavanaugh Lake in Chelsea, Michigan
Succulent boutonnière on a gray sweater
White lace wedding shoes
Succulent wedding bouquet
Beautiful succulent bouquet for a Chelsea Michigan elopement
Chelsea bride kisses mom's forehead
Mom helps bride zip up her dress before her Chelsea Michigan elopement
Mariette getting ready for her Chelsea Michigan elopement
Bride walks around the corner to see her groom for the first time on their wedding day
Groom sees bride for the first time on their wedding day
Couple looking at each other during their Chelsea Michigan elopement
Chelsea, Michigan couple exchanging vows
Bride's parents watching the couple exchange wedding vows
Mom takes photo of her daughter during their wedding
Couple holds hands during their elopement
Couples kiss at their Chelsea Michigan elopement
Loren and Mariette pose after their wedding
Everyone after the wedding ceremony
Cutting of the cake after their Chelsea Michigan elopement
Zingerman's Bakery wedding cake
After the cake cutting of their Zingerman's Bakery wedding cake
Michigan elopement couple feeding each other cake
First dance between Michigan couple
Stunning diamond and white gold wedding ring

No Stress Chelsea Elopement

We took a few family photos on their deck and made our way down to the lake where I took some of just Loren and Mariette together. Most weddings I photograph for are larger, all day events, however there is just something about an elopement that makes them extra special. The day was simple and laid-back. We could take all the time that we wanted for photos. Plus the focus was purely on Loren and Mariette. There’s an element of sweetness and intimacy to them. I’m looking forward to photographing more Chelsea, Michigan elopement.

Couple kisses on the balcony of their Chelsea Michigan home
Couple walks towards the end of the dock
Loren and Mariette kissing outside
The autumn colors dance across Cavanaugh Lake
Stunning bride beaming after eloping
Dapper groom poses on the front porch of their Chelsea home
Chelsea Michigan elopement in October
Gorgeous autumn day on Cavanaugh Lake
Vendors

Venue: Loren & Mariette’s home
Officiant: Family friend
Cake: Zingerman’s Bakery


Check out the blog archives for more stunning Natalie Mae Photography elopements.

Similar Posts

  • Tahquamenon Falls Elopement | Shannon & Russell

    There are quite a few Facebook wedding groups that I belong to. Many couples will post seeking out vendors and sometimes I will reply offering my services. There are a ton of photographers in these groups so most of the time it’s like throwing spaghetti at a wall and seeing what sticks. So when I…

  • Wedding Expo Tips: How to Make the Most of Your Experience

    Attending a wedding expo is an exciting and valuable way to plan your big day! From discovering top vendors to gathering inspiration, these events offer everything you need to make your wedding unforgettable. But before you dive in, here are a few key tips to ensure you get the most out of your wedding expo…

  • Wedding Photo Album Importance: Why Printed Memories Matter

    There’s something about holding a photo in your hands. Scrolling through your wedding photos on a phone or laptop is convenient, but nothing compares to flipping through an album, feeling the weight of each page, and watching your story unfold in print. I know this firsthand. My grandpa’s old Polaroids still sit on my shelf….

  • Marquette Wedding | Jillian & Nikki

    Charming Marquette Wedding: A Weekend Adventure with Jillian and Nikki This past weekend, I had the pleasure of traveling up north for a truly memorable Marquette wedding. Usually my family stays at home while I travel, however this time I was lucky enough to bring them along for the journey. This trip was extra special…

  • Elk Rapids Micro Wedding | Corey & Kate

    During our initial video call, Corey & Kate let me know the details about their intimate Elk Rapids micro wedding. They did not want big formal affair and were planning a ceremony special to them. They both attended college here in Michigan and met while working together at Zingerman’s Deli downtown Ann Arbor (check out…

  • Top 7 Dreamy Wedding Venues in Michigan

    From a young age, my parents instilled in me the belief that dreams can become reality with hard work and determination. Owning my own photography business is proof of that. I always envisioned a future where I could set my own schedule and do something I love—capturing timeless wedding moments. Now that I’ve achieved this,…