Big Windows, Dusty Blue Details, And A Packed Dance Floor | Christine & Ben

Christine and Ben’s wedding day at Union and Social Event Venue in St. Joseph, Michigan was one of those days that felt instantly warm. The kind where the energy is loud in the best way, the hugs are tight, and everyone shows up ready to celebrate.

Their three words for the day were fun, family/friends, and food, and honestly, that nailed it.

Union and Social is already a killer space with that rustic-industrial feel, big windows, and those giant doors that make everything feel open and alive. Add in dusty blue and navy details, a room full of their favorite people, and you’ve got yourself a night that moves fast and hits hard.

Getting Ready At Union and Social

Christine got ready right at Union and Social, which made the day flow super smoothly. No bouncing all over town, no weird travel gaps, just everyone settling in and getting excited together.

Her crew could’ve talked forever about high school memories, college days, teaching, and girls’ nights, and you could feel that energy immediately. It was equal parts hype and comfort, which is basically the perfect combo for getting ready.

Ben started his day nearby with his people, and if you put golfing, sports, and bourbon in a room together, that pretty much paints the picture. Relaxed, confident, and ready to roll.

First Look Feelings, Then Portrait Time

Christine and Ben chose to do a first look, and it was such a solid move for their day.

It gave them space to breathe, actually take each other in, and have a “oh wow, we’re really doing this” moment before guests arrived. Then we jumped right into portraits with the wedding party and immediate family so everything felt organized, fast, and not stressful.

An Unplugged Indoor Ceremony

Their ceremony was indoors at Union and Social, and they went unplugged, which always makes the moment feel even more locked-in.

No phones in the air, no iPads in the aisle, just everyone actually watching Christine and Ben get married.

Simple ceremony, zero weird restrictions, and the kind of crowd that makes you feel supported from the moment you walk in.

Cocktail Hour, Reception Glow, And A Whole Lot Of Dancing

After the ceremony, the day shifted into full celebration mode.

Union and Social does such a great job with food, and the reception vibe matched their priorities perfectly. Great meal, great people, and a timeline that kept things moving without feeling rushed.

Christine and Ben also had a memorial table and bouquet charms, which added a really meaningful layer to the day without turning it heavy. It felt like love and remembrance living in the same room, which is real life, and that matters.

Then the dance floor opened up and it was game over.

This was not a “polite swaying” crowd. This was a “let’s make the DJ earn it” crowd.

Golden Hour And Sparkler Photos

We snuck out for sunset portraits, and the light in St. Joe hits different when the timing lines up. Quick, efficient, and worth it every time.

They also planned sparkler photos with their wedding party. It was one of those fun “everyone’s together, everyone’s hyped” moments that makes a great ending chapter in the story.

Christine & Ben’s Wedding Day Vendors

Photography + Video: Westley Leon Studios // Venue + Catering: Union + Social Event Venue // Officiant: Laura Scott // Florals: Petals by Classic // Hair + Makeup: TaBetha Morrison // Bridal Gown: Luxe Redux Bridal // Groom Attire: Generation Tux // Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie // Rings: Big Sky Brilliance // Rentals/Linens: Classic Catering & Events // DJ: Jellie Fish Productions

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