Intimate Forest Wedding at Pinecrest Northwoods

This wedding was one of those days that just sticks with you. The bride, Haley (who is also an extremely talented photograher herself) and Elijah had a GORGEOUS vision for their day from the moment they reached out to me. Being able to see that vision come to life, and being able to document it, was just so unreal. This was a day where when I left I was immediately wishing I could photograph it again and again! I’m so excited to share this intimate forest wedding at Pinecrest Northwoods with you!

Getting Ready + First Looks

Pinecrest Northwoods is my FAVORITE venue to work at for so many reasons. They have a series of cabins all on the property, which makes it so fun for weddings + elopements so you and your guests can all stay together! Literally a summer-camp wedding dream!! The spaces there are also so beautiful with so much character, including the spaces where they got ready for their day. After getting ready, Haley and Elijah shared a quiet moment with a first look and private vows with the sun streaming through the windows of the lodge. I was 1000% getting a little misty behind the camera, it was just so sweet!

Intimate Lakeside Ceremony + Cocktails and Dinner in the Woods

These two shared a ceremony surrounded by their closest loved ones overlooking the beautiful lake. It was such a beautiful and sunny day, they followed the ceremony with a walk to the woods for their reception. Walking up to this reception my jaw was literally on the floor – it was SO GORGEOUS. The table surrounded by lights, the sun streaming through the trees, it was one of the most beautiful receptions I’d ever seen!!

Portraits Near the Water + Dancing Under the Stars

After an incredible dinner (and arguably some of the best mac and cheese I’ve ever had) we wandered over to the water for Haley + Elijah to have a moment to be together and get some portraits of them. Sunset photos are always one of my favorite parts of the day, and not just for the light!! Even if it’s brief, it’s one of my favorite things to see couples towards the end of their wedding day just have a moment alone to take it in and be together. It’s always so much fun and I think there’s such magic in those moments. After sunset, we drove back to the woods so they could share their first dances under the trees, while a close friend/musician played guitar and sang favorite songs.

Intimate Forest Wedding at Pinecrest Northwoods

Haley + Elijah’s wedding day was such a dream, down to the last detail. They were so intentional with all of their planning, and it was beyond incredible to see everything piece together so beautifully and see them have the BEST day. Intimate weddings hold such a special place in my heart, and I felt so lucky to be able to photograph these two and their gorgeous day!

There are SO many different opportunities and beautiful areas to explore for an intimate wedding, and so many ways to celebrate that day in ways that are authentic to you! Whether you’re interested in looking in Michigan, or somewhere around the world, I’m here to help you dream up and plan your wedding celebration! If you’re looking for some more intimate wedding inspiration, check out my post with 10 unique small Michigan wedding venues here!