
Jordan and Eric’s wedding at Stonegate Manor was the definition of fall done right. Warm colors, a friendly crowd that was ready to celebrate, and a venue that gives you the best of both worlds with indoor comfort and outdoor space that actually feels like a hidden little escape.
They described their day in three words: fall, fun, friendly. That’s exactly how it felt from start to finish.
One of the best parts about Stonegate Manor is how easy it is to keep things in one place. Jordan and Eric both got ready onsite, which kept the day relaxed and helped everything flow without that “rush around town” feeling.
Also, the energy from their people was great. Jordan’s crew is the kind that can talk video games and fishing for hours, and Eric’s side was right there with them. You could tell early on that this wasn’t going to be a quiet, polite wedding. This was going to be a party with heart.
Their ceremony was planned for outside, and Stonegate’s outdoor spaces are seriously a vibe. The fairy garden and surrounding greenery make it feel romantic without feeling stuffy, and it’s the kind of setting where you can have a meaningful moment and then immediately roll into celebration mode.
They had a family friend, Mike Brewer, officiate, which always makes things feel more personal. No “scripted stranger energy.” Just someone who actually knows you and can speak like a real human.
Jordan and Eric told us they’ve never done professional photos before and wanted as much direction as we wanted to give. Perfect. That’s literally our zone.
If you’re reading this and you relate to that, here’s the truth: you don’t need to be “good at photos.” You just need to be willing to trust the process. We’ll give you prompts, we’ll adjust the little things, we’ll keep it moving, and you’ll walk away feeling like, “Oh. That was way easier than I thought.”
After cocktail hour, the reception kicked off and stayed high-energy. They planned on two speeches, a cake cutting, the classic bouquet and garter traditions, plus a dollar dance. Basically: a reception that doesn’t drag, doesn’t overcomplicate itself, and gives guests plenty of moments to be part of the night.
Their first dance song was still being decided between From Now On (Greatest Showman) and Such Great Heights (The Postal Service), which is an elite combo of choices. Either way, the vibe was going to land.
If you want extended family photos (especially with one side being bigger), build in a simple plan so it doesn’t turn into chaos.
Pick 1–2 people who actually know everyone on that side, give them the “who’s next” list, and let them pull people in while we shoot. It keeps things moving fast, and you get those photos done without sacrificing your whole cocktail hour.
Photography: Westley Leon Studios // Venue: Stonegate Manor // Officiant: Mike Brewer // Rings: Kay Jewelers // Attire: Memories (Kalamazoo) // Suit: KCT Menswear (Kalamazoo) // Bridesmaids: Azazie // Catering: Generations Catering (Kalamazoo) // DJ: Pro DJ (Battle Creek) // Invitations: Canva // Bakery: Baker’s Rhapsody, Meijer, and Sandra Kays
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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
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