Becky and Davis’ John Ball Zoo wedding was exactly what we love about couples who do things their way. It was unique without trying too hard, nerdy without going full cosplay, and it leaned hard into nature because, well, they literally got married at the zoo.
Their ceremony took place at the Bissell Tree House, which is such a cool mix of “we’re outside” and “we’re covered” at the same time. You get the greenery, the fresh air, and that tucked-away feeling, but you’re also not gambling everything on the weather. It was the perfect setting for a day that felt whimsical, playful, and still really intentional.
Getting Ready In Downtown Grand Rapids
Both Becky and Davis got ready at the Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Downtown, which made the start of the day super smooth for logistics. The energy in both rooms was fun and relaxed. You could tell this was a crew that genuinely likes each other.
Also, their fun topics checked out immediately. Davis and his people were locked in on Dungeons and Dragons, and Becky’s side had that anime energy. It was one of those weddings where you can feel the shared interests, even when they’re not being shouted from the rooftops.
A First Look With City Energy
Becky and Davis chose to do a first look, and it gave the day a totally different pace in the best way. Instead of rushing through portraits later, we got to slow it down, let them actually be present, and knock out a ton of photos before guests arrived.
They planned for the Blue Bridge area outside the hotel, and they also had a weather backup option nearby. That little bit of flexibility is exactly how you keep the day stress low while still getting a ton of variety in your gallery.
The Bissell Tree House Ceremony At John Ball Zoo
The ceremony itself was simple and sweet, with Lindsay Richardson officiating. The coolest part about the Bissell Tree House is that it feels like you’re in the middle of nature while still being right inside the city. Becky and Davis loved that urban-meets-nature vibe, and you could tell it fit them.
Their wedding style was “fantasy, nature, whimsical,” and the color palette hit that vibe too, with greens, oranges, and a little purple woven in. It felt like a subtle nod to their nerdy interests without turning the whole day into a theme party.
Cocktail Hour, Animal Moments, And Actually Getting To Eat
Cocktail hour at the zoo is always a win because guests have room to wander, chat, and explore a little. Becky’s most anticipated part of the day was chorizo quesadillas, which honestly tells you everything you need to know about her priorities in the best possible way.
One of our favorite behind-the-scenes moments was making sure Becky and Davis actually got to eat some cocktail hour food. That sounds small, but it’s huge. Couples spend so much time greeting people that they forget to enjoy their own day. We’re not about that.
Nerdy, Handmade, And Personal Details
A massive part of what made this wedding feel like them was the amount of DIY they put into it. They laser cut and painted a ton of decor leading up to the wedding, including table details, their cake topper, and even a stand for their custom cake knife.
That cake knife deserves its own spotlight. It was commissioned as a gift from Becky’s parents, and the maker had been waiting years for the right project to use the material they had saved. It was one of those heirloom pieces that feels like it’s going to live in their family forever.
Reception Energy And A “First Dance” Send-Off
Their reception was full-on celebration mode. Great food, a ton of guests, and a DJ who absolutely understood the assignment. Becky even said she knew he was a professional, but how good he actually was still surprised her, which is always the best kind of surprise.
And the moment that stuck with both of them forever was the send-off on the dance floor. Near the end of the night, the DJ played their first dance song again and invited everyone to join them on the floor. It turned into this big, warm, loud, group moment that felt like the whole room was saying, “Yep. This is your people.”
A Quick Planning Tip
If you want nerdy touches without it feeling like a theme party, take the “subtle and personal” route. Custom pieces you made together, color choices that nod to your vibe, and little details that reward the people who know you best. It photographs beautifully, and it stays timeless.
Becky and Davis’ Wedding Day Vendors:
Photography: Westley Leon Studios // Venue: John Ball Zoo (Bissell Tree House) // Wedding Planner: Jaime Weinfeld Zeltzer (JW Designs) // Officiant: Lindsay Maynard Richardson // Catering: El Granjero // DJ: Disko Dave // Florals: Jaime Weinfeld Zeltzer // Bridal Gown: Wed Company Wedding Wear // Groom’s Attire: My Suit Club // Cake: Ryke’s Bakery // Hair: Wendy Cameron
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