A few years back, my husband, Todd and I had to be in Midland for a weekend and we stayed on Main St in the H Hotel. I love everything about this hotel. I took pictures of everything in the hotel because I loved it so much. The light fixtures (you’ll see below), the staircase, our room, the lobby, all of it. If I were to own a hotel, this is the hotel I would own. There is just something about white marble, clean elegant lines, a modern yet timeless feel and just a hint of quirk in random areas like the light fixtures and art. When I first met with Leif and Lauren they told me they were planning an H Hotel wedding and it blew right over my head. Fast forward a few minutes further into our conversation and it dawned on me that they were talking about MY hotel in Midland. Instant connection. Over a hotel. I was even more excited as our conversation progressed and I was informed they would have their ceremony in a barn at On Eagles Wings. Um, there aren’t many people in the world who can adore, equally, the rustic features of a barn AND the elegance of the H. Those are just logistics though. Lauren and Leif started dating in high school, attended Michigan State University together and currently live in Chicago. They have nine years together yet they’re eyes shine when they look at each other and they are both so snuggly and affectionate with one another.

When I arrived Lauren and her bridesmaids were busy with final touches all in their matching floral robes that I just adore for this portion of the day. The H Hotel was the perfect backdrop for all the details and for the girls to get ready in. Their wedding day overall was a neutral and elegant color palette in creams and pinks with little pops of plum and purple. Lauren and Leif did an amazing job planning a fall wedding and incorporating hints of fall and rich colors without being cliche’. The small touches of gold leaves, acorns and the intermittent use of succulents added so much interest and the perfect amount of rustic to pull the barn ceremony in. The guy’s boutonnieres and ladies’ bouquets were a hint of rustic and also full of the same rich color palette, succulents, purple filler and lush greenery. Smith’s Florist created beautiful florals the cocktail and reception centerpieces as well. The last few minutes before we headed out for the ceremony were full of hustle but ultimately left us with lots of time to prepare at the barn. It was a joy to watch Lauren with her mom and her maids take in every second. To trade gifts, get dressed and add the final touches of the veil and jewelry. Lauren gave her mom and handkerchief that was embroidered with the words she and her sister, Audrey recall from a book their mom used to read to them. Lauren began to shed tears as she read her card from Leif and a lot of us followed suit when she opened the gift Leif so thoughtfully chose for her. Lauren is dainty and the chain that held Leif’s gift was perfectly suited and held on it nine small pearls; one for each year they have already been together.

Leif was so touched and so full of emotions as he waited for his bride and it felt so personal that I hesitated to even capture that emotion. While Leif waited, their guests had migrated out of the barn to watch Lauren arrive with her faith on a white horse drawn carriage that he surprised his little girl with. The wind caught her cathedral length veil as she made her way up the ramp before sharing a sweet final moment with her dad. Their ceremony and reception both were full of small personal details. At the reception pennies were left for each guest to take and throw into the next fountain they come upon and make a wish. For the ceremony, each guest was given a small stone and asked to think of a blessing, wish or prayer before placing it on a tray for Lauren and Leif to keep with them. The horse drawn carriage ushered the couple around the property and they enjoyed a few minutes of just the two of them. This is a luxury that a lot of couples to get to experience.

Leif and Lauren are surrounded by a large group of friends and couples that mean so much to them and were invited to spend their entire day with them. Our large group found a beautiful area at Dow Gardens for their wedding party and couple portraits just as the sun began to set behind them. Todd and I strolled through Dow Gardens together the weekend we stayed in Midland. I’m sure Todd would tell you, like art museums, it’s one of those things he does to humor me. But he likes doing things I enjoying doing simply because I enjoy them; even if he doesn’t. After twenty years… that’s more than I could have ever hoped for or deserve. I pray that you, Lauren and Leif continue to put each other first in the next twenty years. Thank you for inviting me to be part of your gorgeous wedding day and witness the bond of your loved ones as they ushered you into marriage and celebrated.

You can see the full vendor list at the bottom of this post.

To view all of our 2015 weddings, CLICK HERE!