A Rugged, Muddy, and Magical Michigan Small Wedding in the Upper Peninsula
If there is one thing we’ve learned as elopement photographers, it’s that Michigan’s Upper Peninsula has a way of testing your spirit and rewarding you with the most breathtaking views imaginable. Anna and Elliot’s Michigan small wedding was the perfect example of why we love what we do — it was wild, intentional, and completely unforgettable.
An Intimate Ceremony on the Shores of Lake Superior
The day began in a quiet, tucked-away cove along the rugged shoreline of Lake Superior. Surrounded by their closest people and the sound of the waves hitting the rocks, Anna and Elliot exchanged their vows.
Planning a Michigan small wedding often means embracing the elements, and these two did exactly that. There is something so sacred about celebrating in a place that feels like the edge of the world, and Lake Superior provided the most stunning, moody backdrop for their “I do’s.”
Hiking the Rugged Shoreline
After the ceremony, we traded the guest list for hiking boots. We set off to explore the rocky coastline, taking in the vastness of the lake. Anna and Elliot have this incredible energy — they were fully present, laughing through every step, and just soaking in the fact that they were finally married.
Chasing Powerfull Waterfalls (and a lot of mud!)
For round two of their adventure, we headed inland for a hike to some of the UP’s most iconic waterfalls. We’ve visited these falls many times, but we have never seen them flowing with this much power! The mist was heavy, the roar was deafening, and the trail? Well, let’s just say it was a bit more than “damp.”
Anna took the term “adventure bride” to a whole new level. To get to the best views, we navigated some seriously muddy terrain. Instead of worrying about her dress, Anna embraced the mess. By the end of the day, her gown was absolutely caked in mud — the ultimate badge of honor for an adventurous Michigan small wedding. (Make sure you scroll to the end of this post to see the “dirtiest dress of the year” award winner!)
Why a Michigan Small Wedding is Always a Good Idea
Anna and Elliot’s day wasn’t about timelines or traditions that didn’t fit; it was about joy, adventure, and doing things their own way. Whether it’s a quiet cove or a muddy trail to a waterfall, the Upper Peninsula offers a sense of freedom you just can’t find anywhere else.
Anna and Elliot, thank you so much for trusting us to capture your wild hearts in such a wild place. Your day was truly one for the books!
Thinking of planning your own Michigan small wedding? Reach out here and let’s start dreaming up your adventure!
Anna & Elliot started their day at sunrise, walking into their ceremony spot with their closest friends
They had this stunning spot all to themselves!
Anna & Elliot’s guests went back to their Airbnb before meeting back up with the happy couple later that day so these two could explore the coast together!
Anna & Elliot’s next stop was a wild hike to some of the best waterfalls in the UP!
This hike includes a stream you have to cross by balancing on a fallen tree – it’s a fun one!
There’s multiple waterfalls on this hike, this is the first one (and not the biggest – just wait!)
This is the bigger waterfall on the hike – people actually cliff jump here!
There’s even more to see on this hike if you keep going – it’s one of the best hikes in the area!
Met a chipmunk friend on the hike out!
Anna 100% wins dirtiest dress of the year
We are so glad that Anna & Elliot chose us to capture their elopement day and come along on their incredible adventure!
Interested in learning more about getting married in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula? Check out the complete guide:
Want to learn more about working with us for your elopement? Check out our info & pricing here!
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