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Marci and Jeff
An Intimate Wedding in Grand Bend

October 14, 2022

Aiden Laurette Photography | bride and groom walk with children on beach in grand bend

That Thanksgiving Dinner Feel: An Intimate Wedding in Grand Bend

Marci and Jeff’s intimate, family filled wedding at the Oakwood Golf Course in Grand Bend was honestly one of the most precious things I have ever had the pleasure of shooting! From the beginning, like I’m talking right from the intake form they filled out, Marci and Jeff knew what they wanted! A short but sweet ceremony, a laid back plated dinner, and an emphasis on candid photos that include all of their family and friends. Consider it done, friends!

One of the best parts of this job is taking the vision my couples – and parents to be – have and finding ways to bring it to life. Each session presents a unique challenge, because each individual has unique wants and needs! I also NEVER get tired of taking photos on the beach. Like, ever. There’s just something about being near the water that adds something extra to photos! The three kids in the photos are Marci and Jeff’s – and they were just the coolest teens I’ve ever met! Sweet story: Marci didn’t get emotional until she saw them arrive at the venue from the bridal suite all dressed up and ready to go. It makes it more real when you see loved ones there!

Surrounded by Love – Literally!

Marci and Jeff were able to keep the focus on their guests and foster the intimate homey feel of a Thanksgiving dinner in many different ways. One of the biggest ways they did this? They were actually legally married before they exchanged vows in front of their thirty five guests. One of their good friends was able to officiate the ceremony because there was no legal requirement. It definitely added a personalized touch to the short but sweet proceedings! There was no head table, just two long tables so everyone could sit together. PS – if you’re looking for a great prime rib dinner, The Oakwood has some of the best I’ve ever eaten!

They also used the specific location of their ceremony to further enhance the special intimate vibe! Marci and Jeff got married on the 9th hole of the golf course, with no assigned seats. This meant that their guests were able to (literally) surround them with love as they exchanged their promises to one another. Lastly, Marci and Jeff did a first look which is always a good time and energy saving move. You’re able to get photos done before the ceremony and can just move right into partying with your guests afterwards!

Ping Pong and Football

There was no DJ, no dancing, no long winded speeches. There was just a toast that came straight from the heart of both the bride and groom’s parents, and…a ping pong tournament with a side of football! Ping pong is a VERY serious tradition for the bride and her family, and it’s amazing! It’s so important that Marci convinced her dad and uncle to take their ping pong tables out of their homes, tear them down for transport, take them to the venue and set them up so they could play at the reception! There were people laying out strategies, changing shoes and even their clothes, and everyone brought their ping pong A game. Marci and Jeff are also big Football fans, so they had the game on at the reception too!

I absolutely loved this fun and deeply personal wedding day. I feel like a lot of couples forget that your wedding is YOUR day and it is about you and your partner. Do what feels right for you in a way that feels true to your relationship, and you can’t go wrong!