September 14th, 2013
Posted on May 2, 2014 by Liz Mahlich
Northern Michigan holds a special place in many of our hearts, especially to those of Sarah Miller and Joe Martin. The couple vacationed in the Benzie area for many years, so it was the perfect destination to start their lives together.
Sarah and Joe wanted their guests to experience the beauty of Benzie County, starting with the small beach town of Frankfort. Guest rooms were reserved at Harbor Lights Resort, located on the shore of Lake Michigan. The Rehearsal dinner was conveniently located in downtown Frankfort, at the Asian inspired restaurant, Fusion. Close family and friends shared a lovely meal, while preparing for the big day.
The morning of September 14th, 2013, began with a beautiful sunrise and the promise of gorgeous weather. The ceremony was to be held on the resort’s beach and the wedding party and guests had the convenience of getting ready right in their rooms. Massaggio Salon from Traverse City graciously sent their stylist to the resort to style the bridal parties’ hair. Preparations for the day went on without a hitch!
Sarah and Joe shared their vows, officiated by Weddings Your Way, on Harbor Lights Resort’s beautiful beach, overlooking Lake Michigan and the Frankfort Light House. The weather was picture perfect and the views were breathtaking. A magical ceremony, which was then proceeded by a lovely reception.
Another special place in Benzie County is the Village of Beulah, which held Sarah and Joe’s reception venue. The beautiful Crystal Lake Golf Club, was the perfect setting for the couple’s Northern Michigan themed reception. The classic white wedding tent with the natural backdrop of Crystal Lake with breathtaking sunset views, was a fabulous way to finish the couples magical day. Crystal Lake Weddings staff ensured that every table was in place and all guests felt welcomed at the reception. Having an event coordinator and staff available at the reception venue assured that the bride and groom could enjoy their beautiful ceremony, while knowing their reception would be coordinated seamlessly. “…I didn’t have to worry about a thing knowing that you (Liz) were there! You made my day happen and I couldn’t thank you enough for it. Everything was perfect and I wouldn’t change a thing!” -Sarah Martin, Bride
As guest entered the reception tent, they were greeted with flawless decorations, carefully thought out by the bride. Elegant purple flower arrangements, designed by Victoria’s Floral Design, which encased white lanterns with turquoise candles, were the perfect amount of color to set off each table. Highlighting their love for Northern Michigan, the favors were maple candies and honey bears, from a local farmers market. Purple and turquoise lanterns floated through the air as guest mingled, while enjoying Black Star Farms wine.
Once the wedding party arrived, the reception was in full swing, and the catering staff from Chef’s Pride laid out a beautiful buffet dinner. Following dinner, a multi flavored cake, designed by Kingsley Cakes, was shared among guest. Northern Michigan DJs provided fabulous music and entertainment to keep the guest happy and on the dance floor all night long.
Two Rings Photography was kind enough to share their beautiful photos of the evening with us. Even though they reside downstate, they love to come work and vacation in Northern Michigan whenever they have a chance.
We feel so blessed to have shared the Martin’s special day with them. It truly was a memorable Northern Michigan Wedding.
