i do {weddings}

a magical and romantic winter lapeer historical courthouse wedding

Lapeer Historical Courthouse wedding in Lapeer, Michigan provided by Kari Dawson, top-rated Southeastern Michigan wedding and engagement photographer, and her team.

An intimate wedding…

Chelsea and Fisayo celebrated their nuptials with a magical and romantic Lapeer Historical Courthouse wedding in Lapeer, Michigan surrounded by loved ones. And by loved ones I mean there were fourteen of us total. Only the best of the best and me. Theirs was the first wedding of my 2022 wedding season. I already know that it will be one of my favorites. Every couple, every family, and every event is truly unique and special to me. It never gets old. In fact, since the pandemic, I am even more grateful for this baby I built from the ground up. And for the people it brings into my life. When a wedding day is as intimate as Chelsea and Fisayo’s it just is even more special.

The courthouse…

I had no idea this charming Lapeer Historical Courthouse even existed but I would absolutely LOVE to go back. The fact that it is incredibly affordable is merely a bonus. Chelsea and Fisayo along with their family had access to the entire courthouse. They had a large space with a long table and plenty of chairs to enjoy appetizers and cocktails. Multiple rooms were available to give everyone space to get ready within the courthouse while keeping our couple separate before it was time for their first look. Those rooms were a stunning backdrop for their details and their portraits both. The upper floor housed the courtroom where they were married by Fisayo’s sister.

Fun fact: While Fisayo and Chelsea met in Chicago they moved together to Columbus, Ohio and landed themselves on an episode of HGTV’s House Hunters titled Time to Grow Up in Columbus.

The couple…

Speaking of Chicago, Fisayo and Chelsea both are born and raised in Michigan. Both attended the University of Michigan but didn’t meat until they both lived in Chicago. Chelsea’s residency has landed them in Buckeye territory for the time being. They describe themselves as a simple, no frills couple that would have gotten married in sweatpants if it were appropriate which highly resonates with me. Then I watched them literally DANCE down the aisle after they shared their first kiss. Their genuine joy over being married was palpable and I just know they are going to be planning a big ole party to share that joy with everyone they love.