Handfasting, Fall Colors, And A Laid-Back Party | Liz & Jeff

Liz and Jeff’s wedding day was the kind of fall celebration that just makes sense at Fernwood Botanical Garden. Crisp air, rustic details, burgundy and eucalyptus greens everywhere, and a day that felt outdoorsy in the best way.

If you’re planning a Fernwood Botanical Garden wedding in Niles, Michigan, this is such a good example of how much variety you can get without ever leaving the property. Every path, every pocket of trees, every garden corner is basically built for portraits.

Why They Chose Fernwood Botanical Garden

Liz and Jeff wanted an outdoor fall wedding with unique photo opportunities, and Fernwood is exactly that. It gives you nature, texture, and depth without needing to “create” the scenery. You just show up and start finding good light.

They kept the vibe rustic and fun, with a smaller guest count that made the whole day feel relaxed and personal. Enough people to bring energy, but not so many that you lose the intimacy.

Getting Ready With The Good Details

Liz started her day at Paparazzi Hair Studio in Stevensville, then headed to Fernwood ready to roll. She had a few details she cared about and wanted captured, including her dress on a custom hanger and that classic moment of her mom zipping her into the dress.

One of the sentimental pieces that mattered most was her mom’s blue ring, a gift from Liz’s dad. Those kinds of heirloom details are small, but they carry a ton of meaning, and they deserve their own spotlight.

A First Look Before The Gardens Opened Up

Liz and Jeff chose to do a first look, which gave them time to breathe and actually be together before guests arrived. That’s one of our favorite reasons to do it. It takes the pressure off and gives you a quiet pocket of the day where you can just feel it.

They also wanted a lot of direction during portraits, which is perfect. You do not need to show up knowing what to do. We’ll guide you through flattering, natural poses and keep it moving so it never feels stiff.

A Non-Religious Handfasting Ceremony

Their ceremony was outdoors, non-religious, and included a handfasting ritual. It was officiated by Carly Curry, and it fit Liz and Jeff so well. Intentional, grounded, and still warm and personal without being overly formal.

Fernwood’s outdoor ceremony spaces are a vibe in the fall. The colors show up naturally, the light is softer, and the whole place feels like it’s leaning into the season with you.

Portraits In Select Fernwood Spots

After the ceremony, we moved through select spots around Fernwood for family photos and portraits. That’s one of the biggest perks of this venue. You can get completely different looks within a short walk.

Wooded paths, open garden spaces, tucked-away corners, and those little “wait, how is this all one place?” moments. Fernwood makes it easy to build variety without losing time traveling.

Reception Energy And A Group Photo Moment

Their reception kept things simple and fun, with a first dance, parent dances, cake cutting, and a planned group photo during the reception. We love a group photo moment because it captures the full vibe of the people who showed up for you.

Also, a quick behind-the-scenes truth. Liz and Jeff said yes to feeding us, but there were no seats for vendors during dinner. We always make it work, but if you’re planning your day, tossing in two vendor chairs is a small kindness that goes a long way.

Then They Took Off To Iceland

The day after the wedding, they headed to Iceland. Which is such a perfect follow-up to a fall garden wedding. Nature wedding, then nature honeymoon. No notes.

A Quick Tip For Fernwood Couples

If you’re getting married at Fernwood, plan extra portrait time to actually explore the property. You do not need to pack your schedule. You just need enough breathing room to wander, let the light do its thing, and grab a few “this is going on the wall” shots in different garden areas.

It’s one of those venues where it pays off to slow down for a minute.

Liz and Jeff’s Wedding Day Vendors: 

Photography: Westley Leon Studios // Venue: Fernwood Botanical Garden // Officiant: Carly Curry // Dress: June Bridals // Hair: Paparazzi Hair Studio (Melanie Abbot) // Makeup: Amber Rose // Florals: Petals by Classic (Cheri Heward) // Bakery: Rise Authentic Baking (Lauren Steensma) // Rentals: AAYS Event Rentals (JJ Szulczyk) // Catering: Taqueria Don Chepe // DJ: One Man Band

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