“When we were deciding where we wanted to get married there was no question that Michigan would be the place.”

Jon and Meredith’s childhood roots and love for Michigan drew them to celebrate the best day of their lives here. “To be able to get ready at my parents home was so special. It was a much more intimate location for getting ready and being surrounded by those we love and who love us most. Having photos and doing our first look at Camp MINOH will be just one significant memory of many that I’m sure are still to come in our Michigan story.”

Thinking back to the morning of their wedding day, both Jon and Mere woke up and enjoyed a relaxing morning filled with coffee and their loved ones. “All morning I was a little nervous but mostly just excited. The whole morning was perfect. We got our hair and makeup done and I remember just trying to soak up every little moment. It was fun to also have my Dad and Brother in and out of the room in the morning before they headed out to Camp MINOH. We had music going as we got ready and everyone was just so happy. As we left the Inn to get ready for our first look at Camp MINOH I was just so ecstatic. I couldn’t wait to see Jon. Once it was about time to do our first look a wave of nervous and exited energy overcame me. I couldn’t believe it was really happening, that soon I would get to see the love of my life and in only a few hours we would be married.”

For Jon, his morning consisted of trying to make the time pass so that he could see Mere. “I remember waking up thinking, ‘I don’t like the feeling of not being able to see Meredith.’ It had only been about eight hours since we kissed and parted ways. I was excited to get dressed and start my day. The clock had started and every minute I could kill time meant a minute sooner I could see her. I had a cup of coffee, wandered The Inn but I couldn’t take my mind off of her. I could only think about one thing, Meredith. I had my loved ones, friends, a beautiful view and plenty of time before the first look to do whatever I pleased, yet my mind was set on Meredith. I imagined what she was doing at that moment, what she looked like getting ready- I couldn’t wait to see her.”

After an emotional first look, where the two expressed their love to each other through letters, the couple were soon standing at the alter saying “I do!”

“The second point in the day that was also very emotional was right after our ceremony. We walked out waving and smiling and after Jon had been so serious during the ceremony, he burst into tears and I did too at the sight of him crying. I said ‘why are you crying?!’ and he said ‘I’m just so happy – we did it! We are finally married!'”

After the ceremony, the newlyweds found themselves completely engrossed in the rest of the evening. Food, drinks, family, and friends. One great big party. “Another moment that was emotional – in a romantic sense – was our first dance. It almost felt as if we were the only one’s out there dancing. We had so much fun and even snuck in a few kisses here and there. Our first dance was perfect!”

Perfect described their first dance and their entire day; along with wonderful and beautiful.

“When I think of the wedding day, I think of Meredith’s smile. Her dress was so intricate and had a train that followed her wherever she went, like a princess. Everyone commented on such a beautiful bride and the dress she was wearing. It was gorgeous. Yet, that day, I couldn’t get my eyes off of her beautiful smile. She was beyond happy and so was I.”

Congratulations Jon and Mere! What a beautiful love you two have, and was a joy it was to be able to document it. May God bless the both of you.