Stunning wedding bouquet from Wolfbrick Farm and Flower Truck

Turner-Dodge House Wedding | Veronica & Doug

As I have gotten older and have gone through my own divorce, I have come to appreciate second chances at love even more. Hearing Veronica and Doug’s story of finding an unexpected happily ever after made my heart so happy. During our first meeting, Veronica let me know they would be having a Turner-Dodge House wedding. Instantly, I was excited—not just because of their love story, but also because the venue itself holds a special place in my heart.

When I was a baby fresh photographer, I worked alongside a husband-and-wife team as an assistant. Most of their weddings took place in the Lansing area. Having been here before, I was already familiar with the historic home from a previous wedding. Walking up to the Turner-Dodge House again after all these years felt like stepping back in time. Instantly I was reminded why this venue is such a treasure. Especially for couples looking for a unique and elegant wedding setting.

Why Choose a Turner-Dodge House Wedding?

The Turner-Dodge House is one of Lansing’s most beloved historic venues. Offering timeless charm and stunning architecture that create the perfect backdrop for an intimate wedding.

Wikipedia describes the home best stating, “The Dodge Mansion, also known as Turner-Dodge House, is a historic house in Lansing, Michigan that was built in 1855. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972 as Dodge Mansion. The Turner-Dodge House is now a museum and historical center dedicated to Lansing’s early pioneers.”

With its rich history, beautifully preserved woodwork, grand staircase, and elegant chandeliers, the historic house provides an atmosphere of romance and sophistication. The gardens and surrounding property also offer beautiful spots for outdoor portraits, making it a dream for wedding photography.

Veronica & Doug’s Romantic Celebration

Veronica and Doug’s wedding was nothing short of magical. They kept their guest list small, allowing them to truly focus on the love and commitment they were celebrating. The intimate flower garden setting. It boasts perfectly manicured florals and vintage charm, made for an incredibly beautiful and heartfelt ceremony.

Capturing the Timeless Beauty of a Historic House Wedding

One of the things I love most about shooting weddings at the Turner-Dodge House is how effortlessly elegant the photos turn out. The natural light streaming through the stained glass windows, the intricate details in the wood paneling, and the history embedded in every corner make it a photographer’s dream.

For couples considering a wedding at the Turner-Dodge House, I highly recommend embracing the venue’s classic charm. Vintage-inspired gowns, soft candlelight, and elegant florals all work beautifully in this space. Plus, the historical significance of the mansion adds an extra layer of meaning to your wedding day. Making it not just a celebration but also a part of Lansing’s rich history.

Planning Your Turner-Dodge House Wedding

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that blends history, elegance, and romance, the Turner-Dodge House is an incredible choice. Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning:

  • Guest Count – The mansion is best suited for intimate weddings. Consider a smaller guest list for the most comfortable experience.
  • Season & Weather – The house is gorgeous year-round. However, if you want to incorporate outdoor elements, spring and fall offer stunning scenery. The house also is not equipped with AC so plan accordingly for the warmer months.
  • Photography Locations – Take advantage of the grand staircase, vintage fireplaces, and beautiful gardens for timeless wedding portraits.

Final Thoughts

Veronica and Doug’s wedding was a testament to the beauty of second chances and the magic of intimate weddings. It was an honor to capture their special day in such a historic and meaningful venue. If you’re considering the Turner-Dodge House for your wedding, I’d love to chat about how we can capture your love story in a way that’s just as timeless as the mansion itself.

Looking for a photographer for your Lansing wedding? Let’s connect and make your wedding day unforgettable!

Vendors

Venue: Turner-Dodge House in Lansing, Michigan
Officiant: Rev. Sarah Hurlbert
Caterer: Saddleback BBQ both in Lansing, Michigan
Florist: Wolfbrick Farm & Flower Truck in DeWitt, Michigan
Favors: Old Town General Store in Lansing, Michigan

Similar Posts

  • Ypsilanti Wedding at Conservancy Farm | Rachel & Wade

    Somehow I always manage to have an outdoor wedding on one of the hottest and most humid days of the year. The heat doesn’t bother me at all, just makes me thankful that I am not the one being photographed. I would just be a gross, sweaty mess. Rachel and Wade on the other hand…

  • How to Plan a Stunning Michigan Micro Wedding

    Even 5 years later, we are still seeing the impact that COVID has had on our lives, and no industry has been left untouched. In 2020, COVID redefined how couples choose to get married. Small intimate weddings, also called micro weddings, grew exponentially in popularity. Couples hosting smaller weddings have obviously been around for quite…

  • Fort Pontchartrain Wedding | Melissa & Steve

    Some weddings are extra special, not just because of the love shared between the couple, but because of the personal connections involved. Melissa and I were great friends in high school—we both played the clarinet in band and stayed in touch online after graduation. When she reached out to see if I could photograph her…

  • Laura & Mike | Wixom Wedding

    When Laura made a post looking for a wedding photographer in a Facebook group, I naturally responded. We started chatting about her upcoming DIY Wixom wedding and getting to know each other. After a little more conversation we realized that her, her fiancé Mike, and I were all Brighton High School band alumni. Go Bulldogs!…

  • Addison Wedding | Jen & Scott

    Before I even met Jen and Scott in person, I knew we were going to have fun! We chatted for months leading up to their fire department engagement session, then continued well after their Addison wedding. I helped with different decisions from outfit choices to the wedding timeline. That’s the thing as a wedding photographer,…

  • Metamora Wedding | Shay & Kyle

    Shay and Kyle’s Metamora Wedding was the perfect reflection of their love—joyful, relaxed, and full of meaningful moments. Their property, surrounded by rolling Michigan hills, created the dreamiest backdrop for the day. The heat was no surprise. Every time we’ve worked together (remember their engagement session?) it’s been muggy, and this day was no exception….