Who isn't just a wee bit inspired by a gorgeous, glowing sunset? Well this couple took that inspiration with their talented hands and made it into the prettiest of sun-inspired fêtes. From the intricate invitations, designed by the Mr. & Mrs. to the all the decor - everything was touched by a pretty ray of sunshine allowing Justine Gunneson to fill the full gallery with SO much gorgeous for us all to soak in!
Lake Michigan Wedding by Justine Gunneson
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From the bride... The prospect of rain threatened the Labor Day weekend events, but by the time the rain finally fell on the dancing guests around 10 p.m. that wedding night, it was the perfect end not just to the beautiful day but to the summer. Since our venue was located right on Lake Michigan's beach, our inspiration for both our color scheme and design was the sunset. (The sunset also has sentimental value for us — my husband's family has a cottage right on the lake, and it is a family tradition to watch summer sunsets.) The “sunset” motif informed our invitations (my husband and I are both architects — we designed, laser cut the paper as well as laser cut the stamps for the text, and glued together the invites), the lantern décor, flowers, and even the bridesmaid's umbrellas. The overall “look” was retro, especially the wedding party attire, but I certainly mixed and matched different eras. Some highlights of the day were incorporating our 1 year old daughter's baptism into the ceremony as well as a custom “sunset” piñata made for us by close friends that was enjoyed by guests during the cocktail hour (though my husband made the critical hit--oops!). All the lights, lanterns, flowers were DIY, so we had a busy day before guests arrived. The joyful result made the hard work all the more satisfying.
Wedding Photography: Justine Gunneson / Wedding Venue: Camp Blodgett on Lake Michigan in West Olive, Michigan / Flowers: Mother of the Bride / Wedding Cake: Justin Raha of Grand Finale Desserts & Pastries / Wedding Dress: Alix & Kelly (Now Closed) / Veil: BHLDN / Bride's Necklace: J.Crew / Bride's Earrings: Vintage / Bride's Shoes: Alfani / Hair: Lindsey Norton of Salon Re: / Makeup: Rebecca Gohl / Bridesmaids' Dresses: White House/Black Market / Flower Girl Dress: Baby Gap / Umbrellas: Bella Umbrella / Lanterns: Paper Lantern Store / Pinata: Friends of the Bride + Groom / Wedding Invitations: DIY by the Bride + Groom