
When Sarah and John dreamed up their wedding day, they weren’t looking for a giant ballroom or an over-the-top celebration. They wanted somewhere that felt like home warm, welcoming, and full of love. Emerson House in LaPorte, Indiana delivered just that.
With its blend of rustic, industrial charm and laid-back nature vibes, it became the perfect backdrop for their wedding weekend. The kind of space where you could celebrate under the sun, cozy up next to a heater after dark, and dance in your favorite boots.
The weather? Absolute perfection sunny with mid-60s temps and just enough of a chill at night to make the outdoor heaters a fan favorite.
Their ceremony was filled with intentional details that told their story. From cork bowties for the dads to wood pocket squares that matched Sarah’s wooden earrings, everything was infused with meaning. Even their welcome bags were filled with local love from their favorite places they’ve called home: Chicago, California, and Michigan.
Oh and we can’t forget the music. Sarah walked down the aisle to Glitter in the Air by P!nk, and their first dance was to The Girl by City and Colour. Every note and lyric felt like it was written for them.
Like every great wedding, the day flew by. Sarah and John said the biggest surprise was just how quickly it all went but their favorite memories? Those are locked in forever.
Their first dances.
The father-daughter dance to the song her dad taught her when she was little.
The joy of stepping into married life while surrounded by their people.
And yes, dancing with the photographers. (You KNOW we bring the party.)
From florals handmade by the groom’s brother and best friend, to a Rue de Seine gown that had us all swooning, this day was a masterclass in how to do personal style right.
The venue didn’t need much. Sarah and John leaned into the beauty already there woods, warm tones, vintage accents and let it shine.
They didn’t over-plan.
They didn’t overthink.
They just trusted themselves, each other, and the people around them.
And it worked beautifully.
Sarah and John’s advice to future couples?
“Don’t let other people pressure you or make decisions based on what they want. Do what YOU want to do.”
Sarah and John’s Wedding Day Vendors:
Photo: Westley Leon Studios // Venue: Emerson House, LaPorte, IN // Catering: Chic Chef Catering, Addison, IL // Florals: Made with love by the groom’s brother + best friend // Rentals: Crown Party Rentals, Crown Point, IN // Bridal Gown: Rue de Seine “Ash” (swooooon) // Groomswear: Generation Tux // Makeup: Cora Downing // Hair: Leah Payne Beauty // Ceremony Officiant: Dave Severance
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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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