McKenna + Kole | White Chapel Wedding at The Morris Estate | Niles, MI

September 11, 2024

Weddings

romantic white chapel wedding in niles michigan at morris estate with classic car by josh and andrea photography

The bubbles softly floated up into the clear blue sky. What had begun as just a few had now blossomed into a flood of shimmering circles, dancing their way throughout the crowd. Above the guests, the church bell suddenly began to ring, announcing the imminent arrival of the bride and groom. In an instant, the doors swung open, revealing McKenna and Kole to the world as the newest Mr. and Mrs. Hanke. They leapt out of the church and into the sea of bubbles, laughing and dancing as they went. It was an image that felt like it had been brought to life straight from a fairy tale, but thankfully, for McKenna and Kole, this was all completely real. Their wedding day had finally arrived, and the celebration had only just begun.

One would never know that just off the highway in southwest Michigan sits the prettiest little white chapel in the heart of the forest. The Morris Estate played the perfect role of venue for McKenna and Kole’s wedding day as their friends and family arrived throughout the morning to begin preparing for the excitement that lay ahead of them. Family has always been incredibly important to McKenna and Kole, so incorporating them into every aspect of the day was a must. First looks with all of her most loved ones culminated in the tear-filled moment with Kole as he was finally able to see his bride for the first time. Eloquent vows were privately shared, and soon the two of them were off to enjoy the beautiful Morris Estate before their guests began to arrive. Their faith has been one of the pinnacles of their relationship thus far, and their wedding ceremony was certainly no exception. McKenna’s nieces and nephews read passages of Scripture over the couple, and the vows they had previously recited privately were now proclaimed loudly throughout the Morris chapel. The bubble-filled tunnel, filled with cheers and celebration, was just the beginning of the evening’s festivities, as McKenna and Kole opened the reception with a stunning first dance, followed by a golden hour session that rivaled even the most romantic of scenes. Incorporating unique elements into the day was one of McKenna’s top desires, and between the inclusion of her Father’s 1962 Chevy and the “Hollywood-esque” Mr. and Mrs. sign created by Kole’s father, their golden hour session was truly set apart from all others. With the sun beginning to dip below the trees, McKenna and Kole returned to the party, welcomed to the dance floor by all.

McKenna and Kole, you two are a match made in heaven. From the first moments of your wedding day, a kindness and thoughtfulness emanated from both of you as we were able to witness you both care and love those around you, even though it was your own wedding day. Your faith was such a central part of each aspect of your celebration; and going forward, we know that your faith in Jesus will shine brighter than ever and will anchor you to each other and to the beautiful vows you both made. Even though this is “goodbye”, we are certainly hoping it is only “goodbye for now” as we cannot wait to see the wonderful life you two build together!

All our best!

J + A

romantic white chapel wedding in niles michigan at morris estate with classic car by josh and andrea photography