June 5, 2010 - Lewiston, MI

[Ceremony + Reception]  The Garland Resort

[Flowers] Flowerland Designs of Alpena

As I drove up to Lewiston to the Garland Resort the morning of Nicole and Ryan’s wedding, I prayed the rain stay away long enough for their outdoor ceremony. Upon arriving, I was immediately impressed with the Garland’s grounds, beautiful trees and gracious staff.  The rain clouds still threatened but I had hope they would hold off long enough for the afternoon ceremony.

Nicole was the picture of calm, laughing and joking with her bridesmaids, excited to see Ryan at their first look.  Ryan, a little more nervous.  The rain did indeed hold off for the ceremony…just a few sprinkles showing what was to come.  Their ceremony incorporated Native American traditions, live music, a song sung by Nicole’s step father and immediately after, a cocktail hour on the lawn.  To signal the start of the reception, a bagpiper started playing and led the guests from the cocktail hour to the tented reception across the resort.  This was absolutely my favorite part of the whole day…amazing bagpipe music playing as we all walked down to dinner!

As dinner was served, the rain came down in earnest, but I’m not sure anyone noticed.  The guests enjoyed dinner with some of the best apple pie I’ve ever had as dessert, the kids stayed entertained with a game Nicole and Ryan put together with little birds in various areas of the tent…identifying and finding them in the greenery.  It was a perfect day and I thoroughly enjoyed working with this sweet couple and their families.  Congratulations again you two!!