Winter Wedding Inspiration in Leland, Michigan
Winter Brides, rejoice! Eliza Jean Photography, The Day's Design and Sincerely, Ginger Weddings are serving up a heaping dose of seasonal pretty below, and trust me, you'll want to take notes. With the prettiest paper from Gatlin Paper Co., stylish rentals from Gatherings Vintage Rentals and a drool-worthy cake from Traverse City Wedding Cakes - this gallery is winter wedding perfection.
From Sincerely Ginger Weddings...My friend Shelby and I, both wedding planners, wanted to join forces and show the power of collaboration in the industry. We are big believers that a strong vendor team will pull together a magical wedding day. Working alongside Shelby, the girls from Eliza Jean photography, and other local vendors to show off our amazing spot on the mitten was so much fun. Leelanau Peninsula is Michigan's small slice of heaven. From picturesque wineries to miles of gorgeous lakeshore, the charming & historic town of Leland is an ideal spot for destination weddings. When Shelby (a fellow wedding planner and friend) and I started to work on this editorial shoot together, we knew we wanted to showcase the unique area of Fishtown. We were lucky to have one of my real couples model for us for the day! Aren't they adorable? Margaret wore the "Ruth" gown from BHLDN with the Pearly Primrose Sash. We imagined a small destination wedding starting with the couple getting ready together. I love the idea of the bride securing her groom's boutonnière, and he taking extra care zipping her dress. How romantic! First we ventured into downtown Fishtown, which, according to the Fishtown Preservation Society, is a collection of weathered fishing shanties, smokehouses, overhanging docks, fish tugs and charter boats along the Leland River in Leland, Michigan. We used vintage minnow buckets, wooden oars, and candles to set the mood for a private ceremony. Our color palette for the day was inspired by a winter sunset here in Michigan, gentle lilac that moved into a more bold blue with classic ivory accents. We loved the unexpected blooms in winter that hinted at spring that will surely, eventually come. White peonies, purple stock, and rich thistle were some floral elements that we paired. We also foraged cedar and evergreen the day before to bring in a hint of winter greenery. Our table was set simply with wooden produce boxes filled with bud vases for an open cluster of flowers. The couple toasted with a local bottle of bubbly, our favorite L. Mawby, Blanc de Blancs, produced right here on Leelanau Peninsula. The amazing stationery suite was dreamed up by our friend Nicole at Thistle and Bur. She hand designed and letter-pressed the whole suite inspired by the natural vibe here in Michigan (her home state!). I especially love the menu with items inspired by the little fishing village. Local raclette cheese, whitefish pate, pretzel bun sandwiches from the Cheese Shanty? Count us in! The last detail that sealed the deal was the cake! We installed a vintage toboggan from the ceiling and adorned it with a garland made from local, foraged greens and candles. Michigan is such an incredible and unique place for destination weddings, even in the winter!