“But let there be spaces in your togetherness and let the winds of the heavens dance between you. Love one another but make not a bond of love: let it rather be a moving sea between the shores of your souls.”
—Khalil Gibran
If there are more fitting words for this wedding, I couldn’t come up with them.
I couldn’t tell you how long Bethany and Brian had dreamed of saying their vows on top of the beautiful overlook of Lake Michigan at The Homestead in Glen Arbor. And even though the wind was bringing in the storms, we stood on the hill, just thankful we could enjoy the view—and more importantly, witness two beautiful souls come together in marriage.
But before all of that, before we were on top of the hill, you need to know how they met.
“Brian and I met through Facebook. We lived five minutes away from each other and had all of the same friends, but somehow never met. We talked for a few weeks and then decided to meet in person.”
They knew pretty quickly that they were meant to be together. Bethany says the best part about their relationship is that they just get each other. It makes sense that they’re together.
They dated for three years before Brian popped the question on May 21, 2016—and they became husband and wife just 364 days later.
For their engagement session, we met at Lake Erie Metropark. It’s one of my favorite hidden gems, and after photographing their session, I knew we were going to rock their wedding day.
Then Friday arrived, and the weather was perfect for the rehearsal. The grounds looked stunning, and guests were pouring into the resort for this long-awaited celebration.
The Livernois and Danz families hosted a fantastic welcome party at Beppis that night. I doubt there was much sleeping going on—especially for Bethany and Brian.
Which brings us back to the overlook. The wedding day was full of heartfelt, unforgettable moments.
The morning began with the bride’s mom getting a real first look at Bethany—and there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. Then I followed Bethany down to the beach, where she surprised her dad with another emotional first look.
The sands at Glen Arbor’s beach are unlike any other in Michigan—soft, golden, and full of light. We’d return to that spot later for more portraits, but first, we headed to the overlook.
Bethany and her dad took the ski lift to the top. The moment she stepped off, I saw her take the deepest breath.
I know that breath. It’s the breath that says, “This is it. This is what I’ve been waiting for. The start of the rest of my life. Take it in. Be present.”
And then the bride and groom said “I do.”
The cake was cut. The dances were beautiful. And that’s when the party really got started. I have a feeling the Livernois and Danz families are going to be throwing unforgettable celebrations for years to come—because they certainly know how to have fun.
Venue: The Homestead in Glen Arbor
Wedding Coordinator: Lynzie Gotshall
Second Camera: Jeanine Krupp
Floral Design: Kate from 307 Events
Hair and Makeup: Erica at Lily Jade Salon at the Homestead
The Brides Dress: White Dress in Brighton
Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas
Music: Mike Staff
Cake: Ann B’s Cakes
