Hallie + Mike | A Romantic Wedding in a Forest Glade | Tandale Nature Barn | Brighton, MI

June 19, 2025

Weddings

Snow in June. It seemed impossible, and yet, as Hallie and Mike ran through the grass, the tiniest wisps of white floated through the air. Of course, this was not actual snow, but a summer-y imitation provided by the cottonwood that surrounded the venue. The fluffy texture added an even more romantic air to the evening, as Hallie and Mike spun into the forest. The light was sublime, the evening cool and refreshing; and as Mike took Hallie’s hand in his, it felt like the years of waiting for this very moment melted away into a happy, distant memory. Married life had finally arrived and it was already better than they could have imagined.

As the weekend approached, all eyes kept peering at the various weather predictions, promising rain and gloom for the weekend. However, as their intimate rehearsal dinner ended the night before, Hallie and Mike’s greatest hopes became reality as the clouds slowly rolled away and the sun decided to bless their wedding day with a brilliant, beautiful summer day. As the morning dawned over Tandale Nature Barn, Hallie and her bridesmaids prepared for what would be a simply perfect day. Between the gasps of excitement from her girls and the tears flowing from her father’s eyes, it was clear that Hallie in her stunning Jenny Yoo gown was truly a vision of beauty. The interior of the Tandale Nature barn was transformed throughout the morning, from a blank canvas to a stunning banquet hall, ready to welcome all into the celebration. An intimate glade in the forest provided the perfect setting for their ceremony, as Hallie and Mike shared with each other and the crowd their deepest wishes and hopes for what this new life would have in store for them. Although a rare occurrence, their portrait session was the first time we were able to spend time with Hallie and Mike in front of our cameras, but after a few moments, it was clear that their connection and their love created a story within each and every frame of their stunning portrait time. Cocktail hour was an event in of itself, as good food and good conversations prepared guests for the evening ahead. The reception space welcomed all, and as soon as the kindest words were shared from their bridal party, the celebration was ready to begin! In a surprise that brought the whole room to tears, Mike had arranged for Hallie to not only dance with her father, but with her grandfather as well, as a fitting way to end the formal festivities before beginning the open celebration out on the dance floor. By the time the evening had reached its climax, the golden light of the setting sun beckoned Hallie and Mike outside one last time, a moment for them to pause, reflect, and be alone with each other before returning to dance the night away.

Hallie and Mike, although we were only able to spend a few precious days with you two, we left your wedding day feeling like we had known you for years. Kindness and care flow from you both, not only to us, but also to the friends and family who came around you to celebrate this beautiful new life you both have started. Our only regret is that we did not have more time to spend with you before we had to say goodbye, but thankfully, we believe in “see you soon” instead of “goodbye.” Here’s to the LaForges, and here’s to your beautiful wedding day!

Cheers!

J + A

All photo are property of Josh and Andrea Photography LLC.