Though most Upper Peninsula residents have some level of appreciation for the snow, the recreation opportunities it affords, and the season of winter in general (it does take over our region for nearly 5 months after all!), not everyone is willing to schedule their wedding in a month where the average temperature is 20 degrees. Saying “I do” at the beginning of January in this Northern town takes a special, adventurous and incredibly close couple who is prepared to put their relationship first, make decisions that suit them, and who isn’t afraid of the challenges life may present them. Emily and Josh were one of the bold couples who exchanged their vows in the midst of a U.P. winter this year, and I am incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to photograph their special day.

It just wouldn’t be the new year without a post celebrating some of my favorite photos from the past 365 days. Happy 2020!

The fall colors in the U.P. truly are spectacular. I was so excited when Sydney reached out to me and asked if I could photograph her and Keith’s engagement photos in Marquette in early October. I knew that we would have the most breathtaking backdrop all around us!

Several years ago, Ben met Jenny when they were both working on a Marquette, Michigan beach. Ben was a park patrol officer, Jenny a lifeguard for the city. They hit it off instantly and have enjoyed a relationship filled with love, laughter and adventure ever since that day.

Fast forward to August of 2019 when they were married along the shores of the same Great Lake where their love story began. Surrounded by their closest friends and family, these two recited their own heartfelt vows during a ceremony officiated by a lifelong friend of the bride, underneath a stunning white arch that was hand-crafted by the groom.

It’s hard to believe that it’s the middle of November and I’m already assembling a “Best of” post for 2018. Seriously, where did this year go?! 2018 was filled with so many special memories and blessings for me, both personally and professionally.

I invite you to grab a cup of your favorite beverage, sit back and enjoy this collection of all of the beautiful people (inside and out) that I got to photograph this year!