knollwood country club wedding by kari dawson photography

Knollwood Country Club Wedding in West Bloomfield, Michigan provided by Kari Dawson and her team.

Knollwood Country Club Wedding0

Their story…

When I first meet a couple I am always most excited to hear their story: how they met, the first date, and all the way through to the proposal. Max made his proposal to Rachael both unique but intimate and comfortable at home. Rachael described the proposal like this, “Max had one of my friends get me out of the apartment and when I came back he was sitting on the couch with a crossword puzzle. He told me he had a rough day and wanted to just relax and work on the puzzle with me. Being the avid crossword puzzle solver that I am, I realized right away that this was not any regular puzzle, but one that max had made with clues about us. The clues spelled out “will you marry me” and when I had finished most of the puzzle, he had me stand up with him and he proposed in our living room.” When we shot their Engagement Session, it was fun and fitting that we made a stop at their building in downtown Detroit.

Their wedding day…

The thing that stands out most for me from Max and Rachael’s wedding is how easy they are together. They are naturally drawn to each other and affectionate. They never run out of things to say to one another. Even though they ‘met’ in high school and began dating as they entered college a childhood photo of Rachael at a camp had Max sitting next to her at the age of 8 or 9. I say over and over again that the way my couples come together is serendipitous.

The preparations…

Rachael’s mom helped her into her dress and jewelry then followed Rachael out to see her father for the first time that day. Dad was adorable in his gingham suspenders and matching bowtie. He and Rachael both cried. Moments later, I stood in front of Max as he simultaneously beamed and chewed on his bottom lip knowing his bride was just steps away. His expression when he saw her speaks for itself. You’ll have to scroll down and see it.

The rest of the afternoon was filled with laughter, a few more tears and traditions that matter. The Ketubah signing and outdoor wedding ceremony were traditional yet heart felt. Max has the biggest smile I have ever seen. He could hardly contain himself when his parents came to receive him. As each couple in the wedding party came up the aisle Max squeezed each one. And even giving his sweet baby nephew a kiss on the head. Rachael’s walk up the aisle was an emotional one. Her mom and dad met her in the aisle and pulled back her veil so they could each kiss her cheek. The moment before they made their way up the aisle together Rachael took one last look at her father. All the love and adoration is written all over her face. Watching Rachael peek flirtatiously from under her veil at Max while she circled him was precious.

Their party…

Max spun Rachael around the dance floor during their first dance before the pair was quickly enveloped by loved ones for the Hora. At one point during a toast that Max and Rachael gave, thanking their parents, wedding party and guests, all four parents stood together arm in arm laughing and tearing up. And that lead to an evening full of fun and a dance floor full of dancers.

Max and Rachel, never have I seen a couple SMILE as much as the pair of you did on your wedding day. I have enjoyed every second of getting to know you both as you planned your wedding. Every second with you was so enjoyable. Thank you for trusting me with your memories. I can’t wait to share the rest. Enjoy!

Full list of Wedding Day Vendors provided at the end of this post.

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