Benton Harbor, Michigan | October Wedding at 12 Corners Vineyard | Maggie + John

Maggie and John’s October wedding at 12 Corners Vineyard in Benton Harbor, Michigan was one of the most fun and laid back weddings I’ve photographed. Besides the flower/t-shirt cannon, the gorgeous vineyard and the wonderful guests, the weather was absolutely perfect!

The day started with everyone getting ready at The Inn at Harbor Shores, and heading over to 12 corners for the first look. After the first look we jumped into portraits and got ready for the ceremony. No one but the wedding party knew about the flower cannon, so it was A HIT! Since we had all the portraits done before the ceremony, everyone including Maggie and John got to enjoy cocktail hour! The rest of the evening was full of dancing, good speeches and some amazing food. Congrats again Maggie + John!!

How did you meet and what was your first date like?

John and I met on a blind date - we we're set up by my cousin and his sister. Our first date was at a craft beer and board game bar in Chicago. I kicked his butt at several games, and he was an awesome sport and still asked me out again. Overall it was very relaxed, and conversation flowed easily! We still love drinking craft beer and playing games together!

What's the story of your proposal?

We got engaged at the Frederik Meijer Gardens in Grand Rapids where we decided to spend a spontaneous spring break weekend. It was freezing and gray outside, but John and I wanted to get away from the crowds, which were inside the gardens. We walked around and found ourselves in the Japanese garden and at the highest point in the garden, John got down on one knee and popped the questions! I said, "are you serious?", followed by "yes!"

“Sydney was great! Not only did our pictures turn out absolutely beautiful but she was a pleasure to work with as well. Super easy going and personable. We shared with her that we wanted to enjoy our wedding and not spend too much time taking photos, which she totally honored and pulled us at convenient times for photo ops. Can't wait to get the photos printed to relive that day again and again!”

Photographer: Sydney Marie Photography

Wedding Planner/Coordinator: 1928 Planning

Hair/Make-up Artist: Reva Salon

Florist: Posh Petals

Videographer: Live Authentically

Venue: 12 Corners Vineyard

Transportation service: First Student Bus Company

Caterer: CK Catering

Cake/Bakery: Portillo's

DJ: EA Pro Music

Wedding Dress: Caroline DeVillo