An Alpena Wedding Surrounded by Nature
Can we talk a little bit about Alpena? It’s definitely one of the least hyped destinations in Michigan. Known as the “Sanctuary of the Great Lakes,” it’s the historic mainstay for sailors in Northeast Michigan with all the hallmarks of a modern city. The natural elements of Michigan are definitely the the focus of the area, and Casey and Josh’s wedding celebration at Presque Isle Lighthouse was no exception. Read on for more about this gorgeous celebration that wove in the best parts of Michigan into one amazing day!
ABOUT PRESQUE ISLE LIGHTHOUSE
If you’re from Michigan, you know that visiting the many lighthouses in our great state can be a pastime of all of its own. However, you may not know that Presque Isle lighthouse in Alpena is the tallest lighthouse tower accessible by the public on the Great Lakes. Meaning “almost an island” in French, Presque Isle is actually three historic buildings - two climbable lighthouses and a keeper’s house. Overlooking Lake Huron, The buildings are situated on a 99-acre township park featuring a playground, picnic area, pavilion and nature trails. That’s where Casey and Josh’s celebration took place on a beautiful October day!
WEDDINGS ON LAKE HURON
Outdoor weddings in October always feel like a bit of Russian roulette - it could be cold and icy or balmy and sunny. Luckily for Casey and Josh, they picked the perfect day for their celebration. The couple chose to weave the city’s natural elements into their celebration, from the girls’ green dresses and the bridal bouquet to the setting in the park alongside the rocky Lake Huron shoreline. I especially loved the shots of Casey and Josh on a large rock surrounded by the water. It was an amazing symbol of the island of Presque Isle, along with the two of them on their own “island” as a couple. Their dog was also happy to get to play a part in their special day!
One of my favorite points in the celebration was when Casey’s dad took his first look at his daughter, all grown up and ready to meet her husband. The emotions shown in his face were absolutely breathtaking. I love how weddings are both a celebration of where the bride and groom have come from, and also a look towards their new future as a family together.
WEDDING RECEPTIONS AT THE DEPOT IN ALPENA
I could have taken photos at Presque Isle lighthouse all day, or stepped away from the party to enjoy a gorgeous hike along the trails…but duty calls! After the ceremony, the wedding reception was held at The Depot on Fletcher Street. While the celebration headed inside, Casey and Josh made sure to bring some of the natural elements from their day into the reception site as well, with lots of greenery decorating each table. The Depot is a timeless, beautiful venue that makes hosting any sort of party seem absolutely seamless, and Casey and Josh’s reception was no exception. The evening ended with a celebratory sparkler promenade - and lots of dancing of course!
BOOK YOUR NORTHERN MICHIGAN WEDDING NOW
If you’re inspired to plan your own perfect getaway on the shoreline of Northern Michigan, you’ll want to get in touch with me sooner rather than later once you’ve picked your special date! I travel throughout the Midwest telling the story of amazing couples and their families, and I’d love to be a part of your celebration, whether it’s in a natural setting like this one, a winery, or a cozy cabin. Reach out to me for your free consultation - 2023 dates are filling up quickly!
