The GoGo’s wedding at The Perry Hotel, in Petoskey Michigan was the kind of day that reminded me why I love this work so much. The rain didn’t dampen anything…it honestly just added depth and character to an already beautiful story.
Their Winter Engagement Session
The story of Nick & Sarah really begins earlier that year with a Traverse City winter engagement session that was quiet, relaxed, and honestly kind of perfect. Between portraits at the Grand Traverse Commons and a drink (and a round of pool) at Kilkenny’s Irish Public House, it set the tone for a wedding gallery that felt true to who they are.
See more of their engagement session here.
A Relaxed Wedding Morning
On the wedding day, I started with elevated detail shots – stationery, florals, textures – that set a high-end tone. Sarah’s getting ready portraits were intimate and calm, punctuated with a few 35mm film shots to add a timeless, cherished quality.
Sweet Family Moments
Sarah’s morning unfolded with so much tenderness – her mom helping her into her dress, the two of them sharing quiet laughter before the day began. Then her first look with her dad, equally emotional and genuine. Moments like these are the heart of a wedding day for me.
Bridal Party Portraits
Before the ceremony, I captured portraits with each side of the wedding party. The rain created the softest, most flattering natural light, while their friends kept everything effortless and lighthearted.
Ceremony Surrounded by Love
Despite overcast skies, the rain held off long enough for Nick & Sarah to say “I do” in front of all their loved ones.
After the ceremony, we moved to family portraits, capturing both families together for the first time.
Couples Portraits
Then came my favorite part: portraits of just the two of them. Nick & Sarah explored around the Perry Hotel and posed with a friends’ vintage car—a stylish and unique highlight of their gallery.
We also slipped into the Noggin Room Pub for a cozy moment where they signed their marriage license—a peaceful contrast to the day’s grandeur.
An Upbeat Reception
The reception overflowed with celebration: a champagne tower, a joyful cake cutting, and the sweetest first dances.
Later, we snuck away for some flash portraits inside the hotel—moody, dramatic, and full of joy. When we returned, the dance floor was alive, and Nick & Sarah danced their hearts out well into the night.
Tips for Planning Your Own Michigan Wedding
If you’re dreaming of your own Northern Michigan wedding day, here are a few resources that might help you along the way:
- What Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer
- How to Plan a Michigan Wedding
- How Much Does Wedding Photography Cost in Michigan?
- How to Budget a Wedding Without Selling a Kidney
- The Best Wedding Dress Shops in Michigan
Reflections on Their Day
From their snowy Traverse City engagement session to their rain-kissed Perry Hotel wedding, Nick & Sarah’s story is one of authenticity, joy, and celebration. Rain didn’t steal the show—it became part of it.
✨ Planning your own Northern Michigan celebration? Whether you’re envisioning a cozy Petoskey gathering, a lakeside vow exchange, or something completely unique, I’d love to help capture your story.
Inquire here to start planning your wedding photography experience.
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©Cheleana Rowan, with Cheleanamarie Photography, 2015-2025. Unauthorized use and or duplication of this material without express and written consent from Cheleana Rowan is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full clear credit is given to Cheleana Rowan with Cheleanamarie Photography with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
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