
When Cassie and Garrett visited Blue Heron at Blackthorn, they immediately knew it was the one. With open skies, lush green spaces, and incredible natural lighting, it gave them everything they wanted an outdoor space that felt intimate, fun, and totally them.
From ceremony to reception, they kept it all in one place, creating a seamless experience for their guests. It was easy. It was romantic. It was 100% their vibe.
Let’s just get it out there their dogs were their wedding party. We’re talking Best Man/Ring Bearer and MOH/Flower Girl energy. And yes, we absolutely captured those moments because they were adorable.
While they weren’t sure if they wanted to do a first look initially, it didn’t matter. Every time Cassie and Garrett were together that day, the chemistry was undeniable. Even with a reception that started early in the afternoon, they soaked up every moment.
Their timeline was tight but so well done. We moved from hors d’oeuvres and first dances straight into dinner, dessert, wedding games, and finally a moment just for the two of them a last dance alone before their bubble send-off.
That final moment was something special. Just them on the dance floor, no one else around. A rare, quiet pause in the middle of one of the biggest days of their lives. That’s the kind of thing you remember forever.
Officiated by Vonnie Hein, their unplugged ceremony was sweet, personal, and oh yeah… involved dogs. The weather? Perfect. The vibes? Even better. Their guests cheered them on during their walk down the aisle and through their receiving line with big energy.
We also gotta shout out their wedding party for making every photo session a blast even when we gave a little extra direction (their words, not ours… “we’re awkward” 😂).
“My favorite part of the day was actually when Wes had us go outside to take pictures during the reception. I remember just standing there with my now husband and taking it all in and having a moment alone from everybody.”
Cassie and Garrett’s Wedding Day Vendors:
Photo: Westley Leon Studios // Venue: Blue Heron at Blackthorn // Officiant: Vonnie Hein // Dress: Paris House of Bridal // Groom’s Attire: Louie’s Tux Shop // Makeup: Makeup By Keria // Hair: Tiara & Veils Hair Artistry // DJ: Lester Pitogo // Catering: Blue Heron // Stationery: Vistaprint
Getting Married? Check out our work and contact us!
Go ahead and grab a time below. This will set up a Zoom chat with us where we can answer questions, swap ideas, and talk about what you’re looking for in photo + video.
Or you can fill out our contact form for more information!
We’re Westley Leon Studios, a team of wedding photographers in South Bend, Indiana with an unwavering commitment to authentic imagery and a personal experience. For the couples who choose a damn good time over stuffy propriety every time.
Studio Address: 218 Front St Niles, MI 49120
Mailing Address: 1606 Oak St Niles MI 49120
You must be logged in to post a comment.