Planning a wedding in the midst of a pandemic is not easy. It has been stressful, annoying, unknown among other adjectives!  I am a photographer in West Michigan, and I am going to share my personal experience with Michigan couples during the 2020 wedding season.  We are a few months into what usually is ‘full swing ‘of Michigan wedding season.   By now, I would have thought this would have been leveled out and normal but it isn’t.   We still are dealing with the Coronavirus, Covid-19.   I wrote one blog early in the Pandemic, called Coronavirus and Your Wedding. I thought it would be helpful to spend a little time updating for future couples, how other Michigan couples are handling their wedding  in the midst of the pandemic that have been on the calendar for months or years!

2020 was going to be a huge year of weddings.  So I have been able to really see a large range of how couples are handling their wedding plans.

April and May were a complete bust. All of the wedding rescheduled for a later time. One couple had a courthouse wedding.

June – We managed to do six weddings out of nine.

Michigan Couples Planning a Wedding in the Midst of a Pandemic

So what happened in June & July:

• Wedding 1/June 5 – They downsized their wedding to their backyard.  They had a ceremony and about 50 guest and had donuts
• Wedding 2 / June 6 –   Rescheduled for August 2020
• Wedding 3/ June 6 –  Had a backyard wedding but did not continue with my services.
• Wedding  4  / June 13 – Continued at their venue to have a ceremony and dinner.  They downsized this event to 50 people and are having a reception in August 2020.
• Wedding 5/ June 13 – They had their wedding at the church, downsized the guest list and are having another event next year.
• Wedding 6/ June 20 – Ceremony at the outdoor at scheduled venue, dinner at another location with a downsized guest list and are also having a party next year
• Wedding 7 / June 20 – Got deployed, married in GA. Was not at event
• Wedding 8/ June 20 – Backyard ceremony and reception with downsized guest list
• Wedding 9/ June 27 – Rescheduled event.
• Wedding 10 – June 27  Ceremony and Reception at a venue with downsized guest list.
• Wedding 11/ July 10 – Continued at the venue chosen with ceremony and reception and downsized guest list by choice
• Wedding 12/ July 11 – Backyard wedding with ceremony and reception and a downsized guest list, having another party next year.
• Wedding 13/ July 19 – Rescheduling their wedding.  Maybe having a small wedding ceremony that I am not attending.

I project August and September to be very similar to what I have been experiencing these last few months.

What couples are saying in the Midst of the Pandemic Handling Wedding Plans:

One bride told me she couldn’t change her wedding, when they date came and gone, she would be so sad to not have been married.

Every couple had a wedding change.

Every couple was glad they had their wedding despite current events.

Every couple said vendors worked with them.

When asked if they would do anything different? Michigan Couples Planning a Wedding in the Midst of a Pandemic said..

100% said no that had their wedding

There was one maybe, and one that said I wish we would have went with ouroriginal date, but we’re glad we at leastget to have some family present!

When I asked if they had any suggestions or tips? Michigan Couples Planning a Wedding in the Midst of a Pandemic…

• Be flexible. Everyone is struggling right now, even the vendors. There are so many executive orders that they AND you must follow! Understand that not everything is going to go as you planned, and that is ok. Getting married to your partner is the most important thing, not all the details. Do not postpone your wedding just so you can have a bigger wedding later. Instead, have a small, intimate ceremony and throw a big party/reception later that everyone can attend. Your friends and family will understand!
• My biggest suggestion is to do what is best for you! Your family will understand your decision.
• Lean on your vendors for guidance, make your deadline to have things “done” 1 week before the wedding & delegate, delegate, delegate! 🤪
• No matter what happens your special day will turn out amazing and will be something you will never forget. I know it can be a stressful time especially in todays world with COVID, but just try to have fun and know that you will always have a great story to share about your wedding.
• Your wedding should be everything you dreamed of, but life happens and there are bigger things. With planning and having a wedding in a pandemic there are many life skills you and your spouse will learn early on like adapting to the unfamiliar and being flexible. In the end it will be the two of you together, so do what will make you both most happy.
• Don’t let the pandemic stop you from having your special day in some way
• Stay Positive and be flexible. Enjoy everyone that chooses to be there.

When asked if anything they would like to share? Michigan Couples Planning a Wedding in the Midst of a Pandemic…

• During a crazy time like now, it is so hard to keep your head above water. I always found it helpful to remind myself, “Everything always works out”. Doing this helped me mentally get through times of distress!
• I appreciate all that Jamie has done for us. From switching dates, to being willing to help out, to even finding a friend to meet gaps. We are so thankful!
• I never would have thought this would impact my wedding in such a way. However, it was so wonderful to not only have support and understanding from all my family and guests as plans changed, but also having that same support and understanding from all of our vendors. It made this whole situation a lot easier and allowed for us to still have a beautiful wedding!
• Try to go with the flow as much as you can, it will only make for a better experience through all of this!

When asked 8 couples if they are doing an event next year? Michigan Couples Planning a Wedding in the Midst of a Pandemic…

62% said yes

12% said maybe

25% said no

The Knot and other wedding magazines have also talked about this topic. You can find one article here.

Here is a couple pictures from a few of these events!  Hopefully, I will get around to sharing their full stories! And be sure to check back as I get more feedback in, I will add to this blog and feel free to email me your tips or advice to jamie@jamiemay.com

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Winter Weddings in Michigan

Winter weddings in Michigan can sometimes be a scary thought.  Our weather is so unpredictable from year to year, but in the winter we can usually count on dark days, cold temperatures and precipitation of some sort.  Every year we have a handful a weddings that brave the winter months, and they always work out just fine!

Here are some benefits to a winter wedding:

1.   A decrease in cost for venues (I have heard?)  Most venues have off season rates.
2.   If it is during the holidays, there are usually more decorations in a church or a venue, for example stringed lights, poinsettias, etc.. Even in the city, you will find more decorations.
3.   Everyone is excited about winter entertainment! It helps to break up the long winter months.
4.   You can add accessories to the dress: mink, scarfs, mittens, ear muffs, coats
5.   Every where you go is less busy, in this case, we went to Grand Rapids. There was no problem parking, not a lot of people walking around.  We had the  city to ourselves.  Sometimes I go to that blue bridge and there are 4 weddings there! I even had some bizarre parade go through with people with  paper-mache heads voicing to save the Earth.
6.  You can visit tree- farms, or wear long sleeves, or have an excuse to take a long bus ride and visit some breweries.
7. If you do have a winter wedding, I do suggest you try to brave the cold for a few shots, even a half hour can give you some great pictures.

The Couple

Tiffany and Tyler met at Ohio Northern University during her junior year and Tyler’s P3 year. We were part of similar friend groups and knew each other but didn’t connect until his fraternity rechartered. After this event we began talking and ended up dating at the end of July 2016!  And the rest is history.  Tiffany and Tyler were great to work with. We found out that when we arrived that we knew one of her relatives! It is so fun to run into old friends at weddings.   We had a very relaxing day, we started at the salon for a little while, and then headed to the church.  Tyler and Tiffany had three hours in between ceremony and reception, so we headed downtown for awhile and then we parted ways as they continued on the bus and made a few stops with their bridal party.

Wishing you the very best Tiffany and Tyler!!

To see more blog post, click here

To view another winter wedding in Michigan, click here    and   another here

Winter Weddings in Michigan Businesses:

Their color palate was Navy and Silver.

They used vendors: Rouge Salon – Allendale, MI;

Tap-A-Few Bartending Services.

DJ: Ted Corner DJ

Flowers: Creative Events

Venue: St. Mary’s Catholic Church/Reception Hall – Marne, MI

Wedding Style: Classic and Traditional

The post Winter Weddings in Michigan appeared first on Jamie May Photography.

I decided to try the Sip and Style combination because I often see these gifts at weddings.  The floral robes are very popular and always look so cute on the bridesmaids.

Their robes are one size fits all and comes in navy, white, pink, burgundy or lilac.    I found them to be very flattering still on me and my daughter, who is smaller than I am.  My daughter liked it so well, she asked if she could have it.  The fabric is comfortable and the length is about to my knees and I am 5’2″.   You can get an initial on the robe and choose from seven different colors for the initial.

It comes with a matching gift box with the same color choices (silver or gold)  and you can put your bridesmaid’s name on the box.  The box was very easy to put together and was very sturdy.  They give you the decorative packaging for the inside of the box.

The cup comes in white or black with gold or silver initials.  It is handheld and a very popular style.

You can find both products here for $44.99.   https://www.bridesmaidgiftsboutique.com/products/sip-in-style-gift-box

We had fun with the merchandise and took some sample photos.

If you are considering getting robes for bridesmaids, you may want to give Bridesmaids Gift and Boutique a try. To see some bridal photos of a wedding that had floral robes click here

If you are a company that has products that you would like reviewed, either photography or gifts, happy to do a blog post about your product.

Thanks for reading!

The post Bridesmaids Gift and Boutique Review appeared first on Jamie May Photography.

I would first like to say that Brett and Dannielle are totally awesome people, that I have had a blast getting to know. We started our relationship at a engagement session. Danielle was referred to me by her friend, who was a bride I photographed prior.  During the engagement session, they decided to choose a couple locations that were meaningful to them: we made a stop at a park  that they spend a lot of time at and the fire-station.

Here is a bit about their day :

We started the day in Muskegon, at private homes, for the girls and guys getting ready pictures.  We greeted the guys first and walked into the unique sock display. I love socks! Of course, we had to take a picture.  The guys were great about taking pictures and posing for some.  We could tell by this crew, it was going to be a fun day!  We then headed over to the girls.  They had on these adorable robes. I am not sure where they got these, but I have heard in the past people mention Etsy before.  Well this home was a beautiful spot to take pictures at, with breathtaking views.  I was very excited!  Not to mention all the lovely ladies are so fun and photogenic.  After we finished up these photos, we headed to the ceremony site in Muskegon. St. Mary’s Catholic Church, so historical. I love the architecture. Not to mention it is pretty light and bright in the church, which can be unusual in such an older congregation.

1.  How to chose your wedding venue?

There are situations to look for in buildings, churches, etc, that I know personally, I would have NO idea about if I haven’t been doing this so long!

1. What are the rules of the venue?  ASK!  You want to know what kind of photos they are going to allow you to get.  Maybe it isn’t important to you and maybe it is.  You want to know the limitations if there are any.
2. Look for unique architecture that may interest you
3. Walk around the building and look at the time of day you are having your ceremony and what time you plan on having pictures?  Are there pretty areas for outside pictures?  Look for shade.
4. Does the building have lots of natural light?
5. White walls?  natural light and white walls, really help pictures to look more natural
6. Is there somewhere to go if it rains? Maybe you are planning a outdoor venue, what is the back up plan?

After the ceremony, we took advantage of all the beauty this church has to offer!  We then headed to the Train Depot in Muskegon.  Here the bride and groom were so thoughtful and had food and drinks for everyone to snack and refresh.  This is something that can often get overlooked when planning a wedding, feeding your crew!  …and remember the waters, sometimes there is only alcohol and people need water. Haha.

I love Muskegon Downtown. It really is an awesome place that I have grown to love. There are so many unique spots within walking distance, yes, that is right in walking distance! It is always such a quiet place, which is also unique because it is a downtown area!!!

2. Look for an outdoor location that has a lot to offer in walking distance.

You can get so much done and quickly when you don’t have to drive everywhere.  This is great for a tight timeline or if you just don’t want to spend the whole time on pictures

3. What makes you unique? As a person, as a couple?

We all look at Pinterest and become in awe. There are so many amazing ideas and how do they come up with them, right?!  I love when a couple want to add props or locations that are unique to them.  Brett happens to be a firefighter, so he has connections 🙂 !   We were able to have so much fun with the expired fire extinguishers.  These pictures become unique because it is about them.  I know everyone doesn’t have such a cool job, with these kind of props. But maybe it is biking, or cars, or physical fitness??- there is a way to make these pictures extra special and sometimes it just requires a very little effort.

So even if you don’t have any thing amazing – there is alway THE COUPLE, who look amazing on this day and glowing with love, bouncing all over them! So no fear if you are the simple type, that makes you unique, too.

4.  How do you pick a Reception Venue?

1. Be reasonable about how many guest you are having and the space.  It is hard when it is to tight in a space
2. Look at where you would sit and your bridal party
3. Again – look for natural light and avoid black walls or ceilings, if you can
4. Is there a outdoor location to hang out? Always a nice perk
5. A bonus is also when the venue really makes it cute. I have to say some of my favorite spots are when the venue puts in effort to style the venue, too. I know that isn’t always in everyone’s budget. But hey, we are talking about what I like here 😉

The venue they chose was at Fricanos in Muskegon. I like that Fricanos, it is really open and has a very large layout. There is a bar area that is great for the happy hour with plenty of room for dinner tables. They also have beautiful views across the way and a little deck to hang out on if you need some fresh air.  The staff is always friendly and the food is good.  It was a lovely night, with a lively group of people. We had a blast watching all the fun that was being had.

5. Pick a good photographer – Ha! You knew I had to add this one!!

1. Experience matters – I am able to execute so many ideas that are living in my brain because we have done so many weddings
2. Pinterest list – You have a few ideas, a lot of ideas? That is okay by me. I like to see your vision and not just mine.  But if it isn’t for you, we take care of it.
3. I am sure I could go on, but I won’t.

Thank you so much Brett and Dannielle for letting me and Marie share in your day! We had so much fun and everyone showed us such kindness! Many blessings to you both and many happy years!!

Thanks for taking the time to read my blog! Feel free to share it, like it, love it  – you know the drill!  And remember to follow Jamie May Photography – on the million different platforms there are, seriously!! -how can we keep up?! Until the next blog post….which needs to be sooner than later… I am still behind!!!

To see more pictures in the Muskegon Downtown location, click here

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I first met Laura because she asked me to do her senior pictures!   We had met several years prior to this perfect wedding day, and I was so excited when she reached out to tell me she was getting married and wanted me to be her photographer.  We started the day in Spring Lake at her mom’s house.  The beauty salon came to them and all the girls were getting ready around the living room area, as we watched all the girls get even more beautified, there was a lot of excitement in the air.

Now, it was not a blue sky, warm and fuzzy sort of day in Michigan. Oh no, the good ‘ol mitten wasn’t cooperating at the moment.  I keep telling everyone I should be given a weather remote, surely it makes sense to me!

First Look and Formal Pictures

Anyways, we were scheduled to go to the Harbourfront to do the first look, this is where their reception would be held.  So the big question was, inside or outside.  It was sprinkling, it was wet, and it wasn’t looking like we had to many options.  If it wasn’t for Laura being brave, she wouldn’t have been able to get her first look, destination spot that she wished for, which was the brick wall along the outside of Harbourfront.  I told her it was up to her, and we could hold an umbrella over her until the last second. She was pretty insistent that she wanted to go for it! So we did.  Granted, I did have my fair share of photoshop work to remove a lot of raindrops on the coat, but I didn’t want her to be let down. I know she loves pictures and outside was a must for her.

Then we had a discussion about what was next, we were due to go to the Spring Lake Country Club to take round 2 of pictures with bridal party and family.  It was looking grim.  I suggested maybe we wait, or do some inside, but I could tell she wanted to go outside. So I said, the willow tree should give us a lot of shelter, and we can bring a white sheet to not get your dress muddy, and of course umbrellas!  Well the plan worked, we did even have some breaks in the rain.  I do always prefer outside pictures, if it wasn’t for Laura’s confidence and ok with getting her dress a little dirty for the sake of pictures, the day would have looked really different. I was proud of that bride!  We did decide to wait for pictures with the family.

How to beat the rain on your wedding

1. Positive attitude
2. Be flexible
3. Be willing to get your dress dirty on the bottom
4. Bring umbrellas and whites sheet
5. Find a big tree to shelter you
6. Look for overhangs that are on a building
7. A first look really paid off in this situation, we had lots of time to work around the rain.

Then headed to St Patrick Catholic Church to freshen up and get ready for the ceremony.  From there, everything was smooth.  Following that, the bride took a trolley to the reception where everything was set up so adorable.  After their entrance, they went straight to cake cutting, then to speeches, and after dinner, the first dances.  Laura and Ryan did decided to leave during a portion of their reception to do sunset pictures, so we took a ride on the trolley down to the State Park. And not only did we have that crazy rainy day, the flies that night at the beach were everywhere.  Laura, by far, receives the award for ‘most willing to go into any circumstance to get amazing pictures!’ and ‘one tough cookie’ award.

A few notes from the Bride

“Our cake was from Ryke’s, my dress was from Becker’s Bridal and was actually 3 separate pieces a seamstress put together, our coffee bags (party favors) were from Magnum, our flowers were from Eastern, and our trolley was from Harbor Trolley. My favorite part was riding from the ceremony to the reception in the trolley and getting to see all of our friends and family. I loved how easily you were able to adapt to the rain and still get absolutely beautiful pictures!” ––Laura

I did LOVE the coffee – it was Love Potion!! – so perfect.  I just finished the bag and it was fantastic! What a great idea!!!

Thanks Laura & Ryan! Stay in touch

To learn more about wedding pictures click here

To see more sunset, beach photos click here

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