How’s this epic church for a ceremony? Crazy beautiful. Kristin + Matthew said ‘I Do’ there and then it was onto Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa for the reception out in a field in Michigan, a location they decided on after a little back and forth—she’s from Kansas, he’s from Michigan, and they live in NYC. See how they merged their Midwestern roots with an NYC love story in these stills by Erich McVey…
Kristin’s Veil! Yes, yes.
Matt’s family has a cabin at Crystal Mountain and he grew up skiing at the Northern Michigan resort. We chose this location because it was a place we loved and we wanted to share this beautiful part of the country with our guests. Our vision was to create a tented reception in a remote field. They found the field we used on an old property map. It was perfect. It felt so isolated and special. The night before we had our guests ride the ski lift up for mountaintop cocktails and live music. It was an ideal spot for a summer affair. (Check out their design inspiration on Pinterest.)
A little Michigan flair: local baby’s breath, Michigan cherries in fruit baskets, a cherry pie for dessert. The chalkboard signs that Kristin’s aunt wrote up now hang in their NYC apartment too.
Planning tips from the bride:
Get your dress fitted early.
The day is about you and your spouse, enjoy each moment, each person, and let the little details that do not matter (like things that go wrong) fade into the background. They will be good stories to tell later on.
Everything costs more than you would expect. Don’t be afraid to be creative and ask for help. Everyone wants to help in your special day. Thanks to all who helped out with ours!
Don’t assume that people are not coming if you did not get a response. Call them directly and make sure they received the invitation.
Cheers!
Photographer: Erich McVey / Venue: Guardian Angels Church in Manistee, MI / Reception Venue, Catering, & Guest Lodging: Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa / Coordination, Planning, & Event Design: Chandra Wheeler of Orchestrated Grace / Flowers: Victoria’s Floral Design / Hair: Pavlova Salon & Day Spa / Makeup: Susan Ruoff of Venus / Invitations: AnnsPaperie / Vintage Stamps: Etsy / Pie: Cherry Hut / Vintage Rentals: Fancy Fray / Ceremony & Cocktail Music: Jetty Rae / Reception Music: Outer Vibe / Welcome Party Music: Shout Sister Shout / Officiant: Father Thomas, Visiting Priest / Shuttles: Celtic Shuttle & Crystal Mountain Shuttle / Tent: Monstrey’s / Website: Riley & Grey / Donation site for charities (instead of gifts): Plumfund / Bride’s Dress: Zac Posen / Wedding shoes: Pour La Victoire / Reception boots: Joie / Veil: Basia Custom Headpieces & Accessories / Wedding Band & Engagement Ring: Tiffany’s / Charm Bracelet: Bride’s Mother & Grandmother / Groom’s & Groomsmen Suits: Custom Tuxedo by NYC Tailor Richard J. Contratti / Shoes: Kenneth Cole / Wedding Band: Ken & Dana Design, NYC / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Adrianna Papell / Flower Girls: Nelly Stella
