Black River Barn – August in South Haven, Michigan – Sweetness, Fun and Amazing Florals – Jenna + Mark

I was looking forward to this wedding at the Black River Barn in South Haven, Michigan all year long! Black River Barn has been on my wish list since it opened! Such a lovely venue with the perfect blend of outdoor natural and upscale elegance. The staff and owners are friendly and efficient. This venue is high on my recommended list! It is stunning!

The getting-ready room is spacious and elegant, with all the practical additions one could wish for. (Lots of mirrors, a mini fridge, a bathroom right in the suite, second-floor outdoor patio access, and a curtained inner chamber for those wishing to get pre-dressed with a bit of modesty or decorum. I mean, boob tape, am I right? Necessary at times, but not a photogenic scene, lol. I love the ability to retreat a bit and still stick together. That patio area had perfect morning light for some fun bridal party champagne shots!

The guys have a separate room downstairs to get ready. They also have outdoor access immediately available for portraits, and fun, with furniture and tables to gather around.

Time for Dad’s First Look!

And now outside onto the lovely landscaping for the pre-ceremony formal images. Those hydrangeas make such a wonderful backdrop! Mark and Jenna both wanted a blend of fun and formal. We love being able to showcase each couple’s unique group of friends! Since we were a bit short on time, we did it in “divide and conquer” style, and Monika, our second shooter for the day had the guys in front while I snuck out back with the girls.

Ceremony time!

There was plenty of time before the reception to take more photos. The full bridal party, family, and the bride and groom’s romance images were all after the ceremony and signing.

Causal romance photos of a bride and groom at Black River Barn

Monika grabbed most of these amazing detail shots for the reception area while I was doing family portraits. Jessica from White Dahlia Events brought the ceremony florals inside to decorate and design this fabulous cascading sweetheart table. She truly knocked it out of the park!