Jackie called me about a month before her wedding date which meant that an engagement session wasn't quite in the cards. I love engagement sessions because it gives us all a chance to work together and get to know one another. Well I have to say, in the case of Dave & Jackie, it wasn't even neccaseary. I was at ease at once and could feel the excitement and love as soon as I walked in the door. The day was full of fun, laid back, and my face still hurts from giggling constantly behind the camera at the almost teen-aged affection Jackie and Dave have for each other.
The Venue
The English Inn
Eaton Rapids, Michigan
Exactly what you picture when you think of An ENGLISH INN. Haha. The grounds were lovely, even in the weird mid-Michigan thaw we have happening. Jackie and Dave got ready in one of the cute little cottages on the grounds which as modern and tasteful. I did roam around the Inn itself, they have a cool little Pub in the basement with B&B rooms on the second floor. The main floor was were the ceremony took place and had several other rooms for people to enjoy a meal at their leisure. The staff I worked with was very professional and helpful. (Even though they told me I couldn't work in my socks, something about a health code violation or something. lol)
The Cake
Peggy Howard
Friend to the Couple
Believe it or not I met Peggy about 15-20 years ago and two of her sons were in MY wedding! I was thrilled to see her and her husband, Mike, at the reception! She made one of the most beautiful Carrot Cakes (minus the raisins, per request) and cupcakes I have ever seen. And I have seen a lot! Topped with sugar coated berries and rosemary you almost didn't want to eat it. Buuut I had a nice big slice of the carrot cake and my table-mates might have heard an inadvertent moan or two during consumption. Sorry guys, blame Peggy!
The Flowers
Swonks Flowers
Battle Creek, Michigan
Swonks did a fantastic job with this bouquet. Jackie wanted something small and beautiful and that's exactly what she got. Filled with white roses, caspia, purple stock and, white hypericum it was light weight and stunning.
The Fun Stuff
From start to finish this day was just plain FUN. There was no drama, Dave and Jackie even got me to blush while doing their portraits. That is no easy feat folks! They were awesome to work with. The food was AMAZING. Jackies work friend, Angie, came to do hair & makeup, she brought her awesome husband whom I will forever call The Sheriff. The guests were easy going and the room was filled with love for the newly hitched duo.
Jackie and Dave rushed on out to start their honeymoon in Florida and I raced home and started uploading the photos to my computer. Here are just a few for you!
