Joe and Natalie’s micro wedding at The Birch Lodge in Trout Lake felt like stepping into another era. With ethereal Art Nouveau details and 1920s-inspired charm, their day was a dreamy blend of vintage elegance and heartfelt moments. Natalie’s dress was truly one of the most unique gowns I’ve ever photographed….flowing, romantic, and perfectly suited for the lakeside backdrop.
I also captured their day on Super 8 film, which added the most nostalgic, cinematic touch. (Yes, Super 8 coverage is something I offer to couples who want their day remembered with that timeless vintage vibe!)
If you’re just starting to plan your own celebration, you might love this guide on How to Plan a Michigan Wedding.
Vintage Details to Begin the Day
We started off with vintage detail shots that reflected Natalie’s eye for beauty and artistry. Her accessories, florals, and heirlooms set the tone for the wedding – every little piece tied into the soft, whimsical theme.
(Pro tip: I talk more about where to find gorgeous Michigan bridal accessories and dresses in The Best Wedding Dress Shops in Michigan.)
Getting Ready Moments
Next, I photographed some low-key getting ready portraits. The atmosphere was calm, intimate, and filled with anticipation. Every smile, every embrace felt intentional, exactly what micro weddings are all about.
A Meaningful Ceremony
Their ceremony was one of the most unique I’ve witnessed. Guests were invited to each place a flower around the spot where Joe and Natalie would say their vows, creating a living, colorful circle of love. It was a simple, but powerful way to include everyone present in the moment.
Check out a recent blog on I wrote on How to Create Your Wedding Family List.
A Rowboat Escape
After the ceremony, Joe and Natalie slipped away for a private rowboat ride across Trout Lake. Decorated with flowers (a nod to Natalie’s incredible talent as a florist), the boat ride was straight out of a storybook. It was such a tender moment for them to soak in the reality of being newlyweds.
For couples who love nature, you might also consider planning an intimate celebration at a spot like Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Couples Portraits
After their ceremony, we took time to slow down and explore the Birch Lodge grounds. The soft lake light and quiet vintage setting were perfect for capturing portraits that felt real and un-rushed…the kind you’ll actually want to print.
If you’re not sure how much portrait time to include in your own timeline, I love this guide from Junebug Weddings: How to Plan Your Wedding Day Timeline Like a Pro.
Group Portraits with Family
We also made time for group portraits, including their sweet son, who was truly the star of the show. He brought so much joy to the day and was the sweetest little peach to photograph.
Reception & Dinner
The reception was cozy, warm, and filled with laughter. Guests enjoyed a beautiful dinner before Joe and Natalie cut their cake.
For couples planning a smaller guest count, I’ve written more on How to Budget a Wedding Without Selling a Kidney. It’s full of tips for prioritizing what matters most.
Live Music & Dancing
Then came one of my favorite parts…the band! As soon as they started playing, the energy completely shifted. Everyone was on the dance floor, and it was a reminder of how much live music can elevate a wedding day. If you’re planning your own micro wedding, I can’t recommend a band enough.
Sunset Portraits to End the Night
We closed the day with a set of golden, glowing sunset portraits by the water. It was the perfect ending…quiet, romantic, and filled with gratitude for such a beautiful day.
Final Thoughts
Joe and Natalie’s Trout Lake wedding was everything a micro wedding should be: intentional, unique, and overflowing with personality. From vintage touches to their flower-filled rowboat, every detail reflected who they are.
If you’re planning a Michigan micro wedding and dreaming of something meaningful and unforgettable (maybe even with some nostalgic Super 8 film sprinkled in), I’d love to help bring that vision to life.
Inquire Here to start planning your own storybook day.
Related Posts You’ll Love
Planning your own celebration in Michigan? You might love these reads next:
- How Long Does It Take to Get Wedding Photos Back? – A behind-the-scenes look at editing timelines and what actually goes into your final gallery.
- How Much Wedding Photography Costs in Michigan – A transparent look at what goes into photography pricing and how to plan for it.
- A Micro Wedding in Northport, Michigan | The Nortons – Proof that small weddings can still be full of big moments.
- Perry Hotel Wedding in Petoskey, Michigan | The Gogos – Coastal charm meets classic elegance in Northern Michigan.
- A Micro Wedding in Caseville, Michigan | Jordan & Tori – A cozy coastal Michigan celebration filled with warmth and simplicity.
©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.
share to
