JoEllen & Ethan – Frankenmuth and Bay City Wedding {Frankenmuth Wedding Photographer}

Absolutely loved this couple and this day!

Prior to their wedding, JoEllen came into the studio to finalize all the details so we already knew going into the wedding that she was super easygoing and beautiful. We quickly learned that she is a total sweetheart with a magnetic personality. When we met Ethan at the church we weren’t surprised to find out he is incredibly kind as well.

JoEllen made her bouquet herself, some of which was from her parent’s backyard. She also did her own hair and make-up. How cool is that?! We loved the colors of the day, especially the navy suits.

We met up with the girls at a friend’s house for some getting ready fun. Then we headed to the church to photograph Ethan with his groomsmen & family. Everyone had a fantastic time and some of the groomsmen had us dying with laughter.

JoEllen & Ethan’s ceremony was held at St. Lorenz church in Frankenmuth. We photograph weddings at this church quite often but never get tired of this gorgeous cathedral style sanctuary! Their Pastor kept the ceremony very personal and it was wonderful.

Following the ceremony we made a stop at Prost for a few photos and so the bridal party could enjoy a glass of wine to celebrate this amazing couple. Next came a portrait session of the couple along with their wedding party on the grounds of Bay Valley Resort. I’m not going to lie, it was freezing. But every single person was a trooper – especially JoEllen!

When this couple is together it is so blatantly obvious that they are just crazy about each other. They truly seem to bring out the best in each other!

Their reception was full of all kinds of personal touches. From the individual pies homemade by Ethan’s mom to the homemade Apple Pie wine made by JoEllen’s family to the flannel accents to the custom made cake cutting knife every detail was perfect!The toasts were hilarious! JoEllen’s sister, Nicole, included a song she wrote titled “Flannel Loving Cop”, which was dedicated to Ethan!

We photographed JoEllen’s cousin’s wedding a couple years ago so we were prepared for the Bender family song dedication to the bride & groom.They also included a traditional German ceremony: Sie Leben Hoch which involves being lifted on chairs, wearing shower caps, and chugging beer. If it’s not clear already, this is an incredibly fun bunch! JoEllen & Ethan, thank you for choosing us as your photographers! Your wedding day was absolutely amazing and we hope that you look back on these photos for years to come and relive all of those special memories! -Beth & Mike