Faith-focused Wedding at the Marriott at Eagle Crest | Ypsilanti, Michigan | Evelyn + Justin

“And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.” — Colossians 3:14

 

Some weekends, we leave a wedding feeling more filled and fulfilled than when we arrived. Although few and far between, a couple of our celebrations each year have a huge emphasis on being a faith-focused wedding. From the moment we first met Evelyn and Justin, we knew that their faith was going to play a central role in their weekend. However, nothing could prepare us for the beautiful perspective this focus created for not only Evelyn and Justin but also their friends, family, and other guests. To know these two is to know joy and purpose, and as we share their story now, we also share the story of a love that started at the beginning of time.

The Morning at Eagle Crest

While the grass still glistened with the memories of rain the previous evening, Evelyn and Justin awoke to a beautiful sunrise as the light filtered across the grounds of their venue. Both bride and groom spent the morning enjoying the company and well-wishes from their friends and family. Their vendor team worked their magic to transform the garden terrace at Eagle Crest into a candle-lit spectacle. Instead of waiting to see each other at the ceremony, Evelyn and Justin knew far in advance that they wanted to be spend at least part of the morning together. After preparations were finalized and prayers were shared, both Evelyn and Justin made their way to a hidden glade on the property for a moment they would not soon forget.

The First Look

There, nestled in the tress, Evelyn strolled up to the one she had prayed so many times for. The moment felt truly unreal in the best way possible. Vow books at the ready, Evelyn and Justin started sharing their deepest thoughts with each other. They made sure to remind each other how God had been part of their story and their relationship from the first moment until this very afternoon. Instead of immediately returning, Eagle Crest provided transportation out onto the scenic grounds, where Evelyn and Justin spent some precious time together before returning to the cheers of their closest friends in the bridal party.

The Ceremony and Cocktail Hour

As guests began to fill the courtyard of the garden terrace, one last prayer was spoken over the bride and groom. Although many couples are prayed over at faith-focused weddings, there was a sense in the air that this was truly a special moment to be apart of. The ceremony began amidst a mixture of sunlight and cloud cover, as the pastor wove the message of the Gospel into the story of Evelyn and Justin’s relationship so far. Elements like communion and worship music uniquely set this service apart, crescendo-ing in an enormous eruption of applause as the joyful couple was announced and prompted recessed. The joy flowed through the cocktail hour to follow. Each and every guest who came in contact with the Raitz’s was warmly welcomed with the same energy and love that the bride and groom were already known for.

The Reception

As the last guest took their seat inside the garden terrace, the bridal party erupted into the reception space. The crowd rose in celebration as Evelyn and Justin made their triumphant entrance. Between dances, speeches, and a delicious meal, this day had provided everything they could have dreamed and then some. The sunlight held on just long enough to bless Evelyn and Justin with one more chance to capture their love with a golden hour session before they were released to completely take over the dance floor. Both their joy and their infectious energy took the crowd to new heights and far into the evening.

The Congratulations 

Evelyn and Justin, we shared with you that faith-focused weddings are a special treat for us, and it has been an honor to be a part of your story up to this point. We feel like our words are lacking, especially after hearing the kindness that was shared by your sister and brothers as they proudly (and quite accurately) praised you to your guests. The lives you have lived separately have now come together as one, and as we left your faith-focused wedding, we left with the hope that you two are now going to do even more amazing things for Jesus and His Kingdom.

All our best!

J + A

All photos are property of Josh and Andrea Photography LLC.

The Vendors

• Photographer: Josh and Andrea Photography
• Venue: Marriott at Eagle Crest
• Videographer: Mike Staff Productions
• Coordination: Sammie Mae Event Co.
• Wedding Dress: Casablanca | Gina’s Bridal
• Florals: Adorn Fine Flowers
• Hair Artist: Riley Taite Bridal Hair
• Makeup Artist: Rogue Beauty Bar
• The Shoes: Jessica Simpson | Vince Camuto
• Stationary: Minted
• Live Band/DJ: H&W Michigan DJs
• Catering: Marriott at Eagle Crest
• Men’s Suits: Men’s Warehouse
• Bridesmaid’s Dresses: Dessy Group

If you love a wedding day focused on faith, you can find another faith-filled wedding celebration here.