Mackenze + Nolan | Charming, Summer Wedding at Venue Bella Giornata | Grand Rapids, MI

August 21, 2024

Weddings

Tiny eyes peeked through the window, hoping to catch a glimpse of the bride and groom as they walked across the lawn. While everyone else knew the bride and groom as a friend or a coworker, the flower girls and ring bearers knew them only as family. The sun crested the trees in its last few moments of light, allowing the children to catch one last glimpse before they were ushered in the banquet hall for the beginning of the reception. For all of their guests, watching Mackenze and Nolan marry each other was truly an incredible moment in of itself, but for their nephews and nieces, this day would be remembered as truly magical.

Any story deserves a good beginning, and the start of Mackenze and Nolan’s wedding day is no exception. Themes from their dating life wove throughout the day, from her getting ready space themed with “She tied the knot” decor to their cocktail hour mirroring the best parts of “Their first date.” Venue Bella Giornata’s bridal suite provided Mackenze and her bridesmaids with the perfect setting to prepare for the day. Heart-felt letters were shared between the couple, and as each letter was read aloud, anyone present could literally feel the love that connected these two together. Although storms had plagued the surrounding area for the past few days, the clouds split for a gorgeous, sun-filled ceremony. Family has always been of paramount importance to Mackenze and Nolan, which their ceremony clearly displayed as they invited both sides of siblings to stand with the bride and groom as they finally became Mr. and Mrs. Knauf. While Mackenze and Nolan spent their cocktail hour with their imagery team capturing all of the prettiest angles and memories at Bella Giornata, their guests were welcomed to enjoy Insomnia Cookies and Tropical Smoothies, both hallmarks of Mackenze and Nolan’s first date. As the reception began, emotions rose as Mackenze’s father delivered a speech filled with touching moments, and an even more touching gift at the conclusion. Friends and family alike joined in with the kind words, praising Mackenze and Nolan for their love and their relationship so far. With most of the formalities and festivities concluded, the dance floor beckoned to the crowd, and soon, the party was spread out over the entire campus.

Mackenze and Nolan, you have this “gravity” about you that naturally draws others in. Not only have we been able to experience this first hand, but as we spent time with your friends and family, we saw that same gravity perfectly displayed as individuals from so many different seasons of your life were excited to attend and celebrate your wedding. From growing up in school to work life and everywhere in between, your passion for loving others is remarkable to behold; and we can already tell that that love is going to mark your marriage as a gift to the world. We couldn’t be more excited for you, Mr. and Mrs. Knauf!

All our best!

J + A