A BOHO-CHIC RUSTIC FARM VIBE
On private land, a friend’s beautiful farm, a small group of close family members gathered to witness the vows of Jasmine and Kevin. Her dress was a lovely cream-colored lace gown, and the florals were perfection, blending shades of peach and pink with coral, orange, and gold. The weather was magical!
We had just a few short moments of “getting ready” images to complete that boho chic vibe, and then a first look with dad, and the spouses-to-be!
Such a gorgeous natural forest they had out back for the first look! The sunlight through the trees was magical!
Quickly, we walked back to the ceremony location for sweet wedding vows. I loved hearing their story. As the officiant told it, Jasmine and Kevin had “matched” online for quite some time before they began writing to one another and eventually meeting. They each thought the other was probably a bot since the profiles seemed too good to be true. A talented violinist played music for the walk down the aisle. And the family dog was a proud member of their intimate wedding party.
These kiddos were all the bridal party Jasmine and Kevin needed. So sweet and supportive! They did amazing all day!
The catering was provided by Green Fork Food, an elegant, artistic variety of locally sourced West Michigan dining options. They can create dishes with vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and other food sensitivities in mind.
For photographers who want to know how to get streaky light and a million little bokeh flares everywhere… f22. I know it’s not a popular setting, and everyone loves the f1.2-f2.8 wide-open haze, but if you want a little variety, try a narrow aperture. Sun flares are always random and fun between f14 and up!
So, this is a thing: Kevin has a collection of images of him jumping – and let’s be real, he’s GOOD at it – so he wanted to add the “jumping on his wedding day” picture to the collection. Lol. This is me, supporting his dream. Here’s Jasmine trying to keep up and also supporting his dream. If you ask me, “Jump of Joy” deserves a GIF!
After golden hour we returned to the reception venue to listen to Jasmine pick up her guitar and jam with the other musicians at her event. The music had a relaxing, intimate feel, and the kiddos lit sparklers and played with my action cameras while the adults enjoyed the songs.
Why did the kids have my action cams you might ask? Well, that would be because I support other artists – including the tiny ones. Jasmine went to film school, and knowing she has the ability to edit let us negotiate a “footage only” collection for a DIY video. That saved me time and her money, and it ended up being a win-win for everyone. Since I didn’t hire extra camera operators, we had stable tripod-style footage from my Sony a7siii and fun 4k gimbal work filmed by interested guests. Net positive experience for all involved! These action cams are simple to use and durable as well. Feel free to ask if you’d like a similar option for your party!
My absolute favorite wedding emotion is wonder/awe. Can you see it in her eyes? I can. I just melt whenever I see such a flood of love beyond tenderness because all your people are here, they are all cheering for you, and this entire celebration of joy is because you found your person and he/she found you. It’s amazing. So touching and so real.
Okay. More of this, please! Time to normalize guys tossing their own bouquets for those who don’t feel like the garter is quite the thing to do anymore. I’m all about equality and fun, so a groom having a toss-bouquet is a total win-win.
Sometimes as I leave an event, I shoot just a few more pictures on my way out the door. It’s a fun end way to close the evening, and there is something special about the sky on the night you were married. I wonder if the image will inspire. If it will hang over a crib someday with a sweet inscription, and some precious hopes. Or if the color palette will find its way into the sofa pillows in the living room without the couple ever knowing why they are drawn to those tones. These things. It’s these things that make me another one of the hopeless romantics on the planet. I know I’m not alone.
Jasmine and Kevin – for you – the moon on the night you said: “I do”.
The Vendors
Catering: Green Fork Food
Cake: Stud Muffin’s Cupcakes
Ceremony Musician: Josh Holcomb