Vintage black tie fall Planterra Conservatory wedding. West Bloomfield, Michigan wedding photography at the Planterra Conservatory provided by Kari Dawson and her team.
Details…
Marjorie sat on top of a kitchen bar stool while her sister, maid of honor, make-up artist got to work. Marjorie’s mother showed me where all of her details had been laid out then asked me to follow her to the dress. I think we made five turns and opened three doors to get to it. And there she was hanging perfectly just waiting for Marjorie to step into it.
Marjorie chose to have her soon-to-be Mother-in-Law and her bridesmaids wait in another area while Marjorie put on her dress. Only Marjorie, her mother and sister (and now me) had laid eyes on it. And when those double doors swung open all the ladies were in awe. I don’t typically get emotional when a bride puts her dress on. I am always caught completely off guard when the little things get me.
Marjorie’s wedding dress was a full ballgown with a long sleeve lace bodice. Delicate crystal buttons closed each sleeve. The sweetheart neckline was modest with a low v in the back. The same delicate crystal buttons closed the back. From the waist the gown became full lace with a layer that wrapped from her waist to above the knee. Her earrings were Alexis Bittar; a gift from her sister. And she wore Ted Baker navy floral heels. You have to see these! The final touch was the rose gold at the tip of each toe. Marjorie owns littleMIGHTYpress and created their invitation suite. The envelope liner paired perfectly with her wedding day shoes. I was a little obsessed with their invitations.
Ceremony…
The gentlemen all looked stunning in their classic black tuxedos and black bow ties. Peter’s was custom made and the tailor added a keepsake inside that included their wedding date. The florals were done by Planterra and they outdid themselves with Marjorie’s bouquet. Only Peter wore a boutonniere and the girls each wore corsages instead of carrying bouquets. And even though Peter and Marjorie opted for a First Look he was still emotional when Marjorie walked down the aisle. A lot of couples wonder if that moment at the altar will change if they do a first look. Peter wasn’t the only one though who didn’t have dry eyes. Their ceremony was sweet and one of my favorite moments came just after the ceremony. The couple along with their maid of honor and best man were swept into a separate room to sign their marriage license. The two of them sat side by side, signed their names, then clinked champagne glasses.
The Party…
The sun always sets so beautifully at Planterra just as the speeches get underway. Both fathers were precious as can be and gave emotional and heart felt toasts and nuggets of advice. The atmosphere was bright and happy as every enjoyed their meal. Before long it was time for the newlyweds to cut the cake and share in their first dance. Marjorie was afraid she wouldn’t be able to keep up with Peter and was also nervous about dancing with her father. But Marjorie dances very well for someone who thinks she can’t dance. Her dance with her father was so entertaining. And as the song came to a close the DJ announced a surprise for Marjorie from her sister. The guests parted and made room for the Mariachi Band! I haven’t had as much fun working the dance floor in a long time.
To my lovely couple…
I am still in awe at the serendipitous way you met. At a bank. Just a mundane errand that leads to a tour of a new city, that leads to a lifetime together. The pair of you are among the warmest and friendliest couples I have had the privilege of getting to know and capture. Your presence warms those around you and your affection touches hearts. I adore the way you look at each other. I truly am better for knowing you. Hugs to you and your incredible families and thank you to all of you for making us feel so welcome! Hugs – Kari
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