Purcell Photography

Wedding at the Homestead Resort

2011-08-08T12:37:00.010-04:00

On a beautiful summer morning on the shores of Lake Michigan, at the Homestead Resort, our lovely bride Abby made her way across the bridge to greet her soon to be husband. The grin on Daniel's face when he first saw Abby spoke for it's self. We then had the opportunity to capture some rare moring photos on the beach with our good looking couple. Some couples like to have a first meeting before the ceremony for a variety of reasons and photographers love it because it usually allows us to spend more private time with the couple.

Abby and Daniel chose to have an elegant but more casual affair. Following their morning ceremony on the top of the mountain, with its spectacular views of Lake Michigan, the guests joined the couple for a fantastic brunch at Camp Firefly. After the reception brunch and toasts, our couple invited all their guests outside for some serious croquet competition.

What great day and best wishes!

Wedding at the Homestead Resort

Wedding Photography by Purcell Photography

Wedding at the Homestead Resort, by Purcell Photography

Traverse City Wedding Photographer, Purcell Photography

Wedding at Bowers Harbor/Mission Table

2011-05-11T10:14:00.006-04:00

We were again back at Bowers Harbor Mission Table for a beautiful summer wedding. The lovely lawn at Bowers Harbor was the setting for the nuptials of Karyn and Brian. Indeed, the Inn has long been one of our favorite sites for outdoor weddings as it is one of the rare wedding venues that has a beach area along with vineyards. What bride would not feel radiant in such a location. Karyn and Brian choose this location to be joined together in front of family and friends.

The ceremony was very lovely and touching as it was performed by a clergyman who was a close family friend. After family photos the couple greeted their guests on the large front patio deck. For the reception, the guests only needed to walk around to the back where the new Mission Table reception hall is located.

Once the reception began, toasts dinner and cake cutting was followed by an evening dancing and celebration with one of the area's premier bands "MacDaddy".

What a great time!!

Wedding Photography by Purcell Photography

Wedding at Mission Table

Traverse City Wedding Photographer Purcell Photography

Wedding at Castle Farms in Charlevoix

2010-12-25T12:15:00.002-05:00

Kellie and James were a couple that wanted to keep things as simple and stress free as possible in planning their wedding. That was one of the reasons they chose to get married at Castle Farms in Charlevoix Michigan. A venue such as Castle Farms is just perfect for that type of celebration. Everything can be done at one location. Kellie and James choose the Knights Courtyard for their wedding site. The couple opted not to have anyone stand up with them. Instead they walked down the aisle together. They exchanged vows in the outside courtyard in the presence of the intimate group of family and friends that had gathered.

The courtyard gave us a great spot for photos of family and friends after the ceremony. From the courtyard we moved into the Knights Castle for a great evening of celebration. It was our pleasure to be part of Kellie and James’s special day.

Good luck in the future.

Wedding at Castle Farms

Wedding Photography by Purcell Photography

Wedding at Crystal Mountain Resort

2010-12-16T09:54:00.001-05:00

Courtnee and James married at Crystal Mountain Resort/ Michigan Legacy Art Park

Crystal Mountain, located twenty eight miles southwest of Traverse City, Michigan, is a wonderful place to have your wedding. The resort offers many options for your celebration. You can get married up on top of the mountain, down by the pond, or on the lawn by the gazebo. This past year they have added a new choice, The Michigan Legacy Art Park. Your guests stroll along a woodland path where sculptures and art work by various Michigan artists have been installed. A short way up the path brings them to the amphitheater where wedding ceremonies are held. It was this wonderful rustic and natural setting that Courtnee and James exchanged vows.

Before joining their guests in the Northwest Ballroom, our groom and his groomsman made a side trip to one of the resorts most fun attractions. The giant Tube Slide. The ski lift takes you to the start and it is all downhill from there! We certainly enjoyed our time with Courtnee and James. Best of luck in the future.

Wedding at Crystal Mountain Resort

Wedding Photography by Purcell Photography

Traverse City Wedding Photographer, Purcell Photography

Wedding Photography in Northern Michigan by Wedding Photography by Purcell Photography

Wedding at Mission Table, Bowers Harbor

2010-11-23T21:00:00.003-05:00

With the glistening waters of Bowers Harbor in front of her, our beautiful bride Julie walked down the aisle to join Bernie on the lawn of Mission Table. As family and friends watched, Julie and Bernie became husband and wife.

Indeed with all the wonderful places to get married at in Northern Michigan, it can be hard to choose. Mission Table; formerly know as Bowers Harbor Inn, offers so many of the things that draw couples to the area. Located on Old mission peninsula, the facility sits on Bowers Harbor. The Inn itself, a former private home, is a landmark in the region. The ceremony site is located on the large sprawling tree covered lawn. Grand Traverse Bay provides a stunning background.

This past year a new reception hall was completed to allow couples to host their entire wedding at one great location. That made it very easy for us to take advantage of the surroundings and capture some spectacular photos. We wish Julie and Bernie many years of happiness.

Wedding at Mission Table, Bowers Harbor

Mission Table Wedding Photos by Purcell Photography

Wedding Photos by Purcell Photography

Wedding at Castle Farms in Charlevoix

2010-07-19T21:24:00.003-04:00

Showers on the morning of Jenny and Mike’s wedding did not dampen their spirits. The couple were getting married at Castle Farms in Charlevoix Michigan. The Castle is a wonderful venue and offers many locations for a ceremony. It was no problem to move the ceremony inside.

After the ceremony the sky had cleared enough for us to take the trolley down to the shore of Lake Michigan for beach pictures. Our bride really wanted pictures by the popular Charlevoix lighthouse. The temperature had dropped and the wind had come up. Our wedding party where real troupers and we got the photos our couple had their hearts set on.

Once back at the reception being held in the Knights Castle, who cared if it rained!

Wedding at Castle Farms

Castle Farms Wedding by Purcell Photography

Traverse City Wedding Photography by Purcell Photography

Wedding on Glen Lake in Leelanau County

2010-06-02T09:09:00.006-04:00

When we first met Erica and Mike to do their engagement photos, it was cold, rainy and windy. On the morning of their wedding, it was cold rainy and very windy. YIKES!!

As the day progressed the rain stop, but the wind was still a problem. So we went to plan B which turned out to be great. The reception was being held in the backyard of the bride's parents home on beautiful Glen Lake which was nestled amongst many gorgeous trees. The ceremony was switched to the sheltered shoreline.

With Mike and Erica both being veterinarians, it was only fitting that our flower bearers had wet cold noses...what cuties! Erica's parents both officiated the wedding ceremony which made it all the more special. The stress of the last minute change did not last long. Our bride was so excited to be marring Mike, she could hardly contain herself.

It was our pleasure to be part of this very special occasion. Best wishes to Mike , Erica and the gang.

Glen Lake Wedding

Wedding Photography by Purcell Photography

Wedding in Northern Michigan, Leelanau County

Northern Michigan Wedding Photography Purcell Photography

Wedding at Frog Pond Village

2010-05-01T09:13:00.005-04:00

Frog Pond Village is located near Interlochen and is a very popular venue for Northern Michigan Weddings. We usually have more than one wedding there a year and this time we had a mid week Wednesday wedding.

Lynn and Tim traveled from Florida for the small, intimate wedding. Tim had been raised in the Traverse City area so most of the family and friends did not have that far to travel. The ceremony was held at the outdoor Tad Pole chapel and was conducted by the groom's brother.

Their children, family and friends are very important to Tim and Lynn so they wanted to use this opportunity to get some great group shots of everyone. This becomes more and more important to couples today as family seems to get very spread out and occasions when everyone gets together become more rare.

Wedding at Frog Pond Village

Northern Micigan Wedding

Wedding Photography by Purcell Photography

Traverse City Wedding Photographer is Purcell Photography

Wedding at Bowers Harbor Inn

2010-03-03T15:54:00.009-05:00

With the glistening waters of Bowers Harbor in front her, our beautiful bride Julie walked down aisle to join Bernie on the lawn at Bowers Harbor Inn. As friends and family watched, Bernie and Julie became husband and wife.

With all of the wonderful places to get married at in Northern Michigan it can be hard to choose. Bowers Harbor Inn offers so many of the things that draw couples to our area. It is located on Old Mission Peninsula which has gained nation wide attention for its vineyards and natural beauty. The Inn sits on a lovely piece of land that has a wonderful rolling lawn with a tall majestic tree canopy.

The Inn itself, a former private home is a landmark in the region with a very interesting mystery story of past owners.

This past year the management has completed an impressive new reception hall to accommodate large wedding receptions.

After taking family photos on the lawn , we moved down by the water with our couple. As guest enjoyed cocktails on the Patio of the Inn we got some great beach shots across the way.

We had another great time at the Inn with Julie and Bernie and wish them all the best!

Traverse City Wedding Photography

Wedding at Bowers Harbor Inn

Purcell Photography Wedding Photography

Wedding at the Inn at Bay Harbor, Petoskey

2010-02-15T20:16:00.008-05:00

Just South of Petoskey Michigan along the shores of Lake Michigan sits the one of the most stunning resorts in the midwest, the resort area of Bay Harbor. Liz and Bob choose this elegant setting of the Inn at Bay Harbor to host their outside beach wedding as as their reception.

Weddings are joyful and fun occations and this one cetainly was the case with our couple's wedding. With our Bride and Groom both safely back from tours of duty in Iraq and the big day finally here, everyone was read to have a super good time. This was not a group that you had to prod into picture taking...not at all. We releazed righ away that were just along for the ride and it was our job to record the events.

It was great. Were were there to capture the action and boy there was plenty.

The couple were joined in marriage on the Inn's lawn overlooking Lake Michigan. The ceremony was performed by the groom's grandfather which made the event even more special. Later the reception was held in the Inn's banquet room.

After dinner we were able to run out and captiure the last few moments of a spectaculare sun set It was a very fitting ending to a wonderful and wild day.

Our best wishers to years of happiness Liz and Bob. We also want to thank both of them for their service to our country!!

Wedding at Bowers Harbor Inn

2010-02-12T14:09:00.005-05:00

On the Western shoreline on Old Mission Peninsula you will find Bowers Harbor Inn overlooking Grand Traverse Bay. Northern Michigan has so many wonderful wedding venues and Bowers Harbor is one of our favorites.

Bowers Harbor Inn which was once a private home is a wonderful restaurant that also has its own brewery on site. This summer the Inn opened its new reception hall on the grounds. The Inn has a beautiful front lawn with a low stone wall that overlooks the water and is shaded by a multitude of tall trees.

Ali, who is from Texas, met Eric who is a native of Michigan while attending Michigan State University. After being a couple for 5 years, Eric took Ali for a visit to his grandmother’s house. It was a place that Eric always enjoyed visiting to as a child. It was here on a stone wall that he proposed to Ali. Ali said yes and a year later she posed by another stone wall as a beautiful bride.

With Eric’s family in Michigan and Ali’s family spread out over the country, the couple decided on a destination wedding in Northern Michigan. The bride knew she wanted an outdoor wedding near the water so she and her mother took a trip to Northern Michigan to scout out different locations for a wedding. When they got to Bowers Harbor Inn she fell in love with it and knew from the first sight, “this is where I want my wedding.”

In late July this past summer the guests gathered on the wooded front lawn while the ladies put on their finishing touches upstairs in the Inn. When the time for the ceremony finally arrived, Ali and her father made a grand entrance down the walkway to join Eric. The couple exchanged vows with the shimmering waters of Bowers Harbor in background.

For a special touch, Ali’s brother became ordained so he could perform the ceremony. For both Ali and Eric, it made it much more personal to have someone they were close to perform the ceremony rather than a stranger.

After the ceremony, the newlyweds and their guests enjoyed cocktails and hor d’ oeuvres on the Inns front lawn patio area. Soon they were ready to move to Bowers Harbor’s lovely new reception hall located on the back lawn.

Ali comment on how helpful the staff was at bowers harbor. “They were all so great. Everything was just perfect! ” The weather was awesome. I could not have asked for more”

Thanks to Ali and Eric for allowing us to be a part of their special day!

Wedding at Bowers Harbor Inn, Traverse City

Traverse City Wedding

Traverse City Wedding Reception

Wedding Photography by Purcell Photography

Wedding at Castle Farms Charlevoix

2010-01-21T20:30:00.005-05:00

Megan and Bryan choose Castle Farms as the location for their wedding and reception. If you are looking for a fairytale wedding Castle Farms in Charlevoix Michigan is the perfect place. Once a working dairy farm, over the years Castle Farms had many functions. Ranging from a dairy farm to a big name rock concert venue, but it has truly found its calling as a premier wedding location. Under the ownership of Richard and Linda Mueller, Castle Farms has undergone a complete transformation.
Linda saw it for the jewel that it was and set out restoring and improving the property. Today many people are able to share in the beauty and grounds and the rich history of the Castle Farms.

The Queens Courtyard serve as the ceremony site as well as the location for Megan and Bryan to first met and share a special moment before joining family for photos in the butterfly garden. There are so many wonderful locations it can be hard to choose. The butterfly garden is small and private and perfect for our family shots period. Our bride was stunning and the garden made a wonderful background for her bridal portrait.

After a very touching ceremony that was performed by the groom’s father, we enjoyed some time with our bridal party. They were great….if we said jump they did….see photo!!

The Queens tent was the site for the reception. After dinner the couple stepped away for the reception, to take advantage of the beautiful day for some romantic couple shots.

We wish them the best.

Wedding at Castle Farms, Charlevoix

Wedding Photography by Purcell Photography

Northern Michigan Wedding

Photography by Purcell Photography

Traverse City Photographer Purcell Photography

July Wedding at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa

2009-12-21T16:05:00.007-05:00

The Grand Travese Resort and Spa in Traverse City is one of Northern Michigan's premier wedding venues. The beautiful grounds which offers many diffent oudoor ceremony sites as well as a beach location, draws many couples to the area for their wedding.

Christy and Marc had planned to use the resorts pavillion for both their wedding ceremony and oudoor evening reception. Unfortuately, the weather for July was to say the least, very unusual. It was cool and rainy that day the wedding and reception had to be moved inside. But with the capable staff of the Resort this was no problem.

Indeed, if you have to go with Plan B, there is no better place than the Grand Traverse Resort.

The ceremony was held on the 17th floor, which is an area at the top of the hotel tower. It is an open loft area with large expanses of glass that offers a beathtaking view of the Grand Traverse Bay and Old Mission penisula. The reception was moved into one of the many ball rooms and looked spectacular.

After dinner and special dances, it was time to get the party started. Everyone joined in and it seem that everyone at the reception was on the dance floor. We got some great shots. The kides were especially happy when the candy table opened up...Adults too!!

Christy and Marc, as they say took lemons and made lemonade as the day was a blast and they partied late into the evening.

We wish them the best!!

Wedding at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa

Travese City Wedding

Wedding Photography by Purcell Photography

Traverse City Wedding Photography

Wedding Reception at the Grand Traverse Resort

Photography by Purcell Photography

Charlevoix Beach Beach Wedding

2009-11-17T10:26:00.003-05:00

It was a beautiful Thursday afternoon on the shores of Lake Michigan, just south of Charlevoix, in Northern Michigan. We were there for the wedding of Nicolette and Jason. Using a wonderful beach house as their base of operation, Nicolette and Jason planned a smaller more intimate family wedding out on the beach. The house itself, with its spacious decks and woodland setting made the perfect casual and relaxed reception area. The home also had a wonderful garden area that was just perfect for photos.

Even with all the hours of planning that go into a wedding, sometimes things do not go exactly as planned. But that is O.K. These are the things that you will remember the most. In planning a beach wedding a few things that can go against you is the weather. Strong wind, hot sun, rain, that sort of thing. Or losing the rings in the sand. We do a lot of beach weddings and had seen the first three but never the rings!!!

Yes.... our groom was not joking when he went to his pocket for the rings and they were not there. Everyone thought it was a joke at first, but when the reality hit a few tears started to flow. But Grandma came to the rescue as she took off her wedding ring to give to her granddaughter to use. It was a very special moment.

Our couple completed the ceremony and became husband and wife. They had some spectacular beach photos taken and yes, the ring were found!

Best wishes for many years of happiness.

Northern Michigan Wedding Photography

Wedding on a Charlevoix Beach

Beach Wedding

Wedding Photography by Purcell Photography

2009-09-22T14:32:00.006-04:00

We first met Brianna and Marc along with their mothers last fall. We had the opportunity to get to know our couple a little better when we did their engagement session out on Old Mission Peninsula at the lighthouse. What a great couple. Briamma was just a sweetheart and Marc, a sharp, witty and very nice young man. we knew that doing their wedding was going to be a lot of fun. It was!

In downtown Traverse City, sitting on the Grand Traverse Bay, is the Maritime Academy and the Hagerty Center. Bright sunshine and and beautiful blue water greeted us when we arrived at the Hagerty Center. This location provides a private outdoor ceremony site, with the gorgous bay as your background.

After a very touching ceremony our newlyweds greeted their guest in the glass walled lobby where they then enjoyed cocktails and hors d' oeuvres. During this time, the couple and their wedding party traveled by limo to Hannah Park in downtown Traverse City. With the Boardman River in the background we shot some great photos of everyone.

After a short ride everyone arrived back at the Hagerty Center for the introduction of the bridal party. What can I say! If you can't have fun on your wedding day, when can you! Our groom had his groomsmen "fly" into the reception( did I mention that Marc is a pilot) while he "shot" them down to the music from "Top Gun"! Not to be outdone, our ladies sported cowboy hats and rope lassos, and to the song of " Save a Horse, Ride a cowboy" roped and tied that groom and handed him off to his bride.

After best man and Maid of Honor toasts and two very touching toasts from the fathers, the festivities moved on to the first dances. Our groom and his mother dances to a song I had never heard used before for this occasion, Guns and Roses " Sweet Child Of Mine"! You just had to be there. I will never forget it.

We had a wonderful time. Best wishes for what we know will be a very bright future.

Wedding at Hagerty Conference Center, Northwestern Michigan College

Hagerty Conference Center, Traverse City

Traverse City Maretime Museum

Wedding at the Hagerty Center in Traverse City

Wedding at Frog Pond Village in Interlochen

2009-09-17T12:51:00.005-04:00

After much anticipation Erin and Jerods wedding day had finaly arrived. It was a perfect day on June 27th. Jerod, his groomsmen and family started with photos at their hpme on Silver Lake. From there they moved on to Frog Pond Village, in Interlochen, Michigan, the site of ceremony and reception. Our bride was already at Frog Pond taking advantage of the lovely garden setting for her bridal portraits.

The ceremony was held at the Bull Frog Chapel. The chapel offers the best of both worlds. Open sides still give you the feel of an ourdoor ceremony, but the roof overhead offers protection.... which we needed. Wouldn't you know it, as soon as the ceremony was over and we planned on ourside photos, it started to sprinkle. We still had the rustic chapel to use for group shots after the wedding.

It was still hit and miss with rain showers that evening, but we were still able to take some wonderful outdoor Bride and Groom shots of Erin and Jerod.

We enjoyed being part of Erin and Jerods special day. They were a fun couple and we wish them the best.

Married at Frog Pond Village

Wedding in Northern Michigan

Traverse City Wedding

Married at Frog Pond near Interlochen

Wedding at the ParkShore Resort

2009-08-21T10:06:00.002-04:00

Located on the shores of Grand Traverse Bay in Traverse City Michigan, is the ParkShore Resort. With northern Michigan being a premier destination wedding spot, we were pleased that the ParkShore Resort had recently provided a spectacular location for a beach wedding. A lovely lawn area with fountains and a beautiful gazebo, along with stunning views of the water serves as a ceremony site.

For your reception, all you need to do is walk up the stairs to a tented patio to enjoy the same great views.

With our couple, Clair and Kevin, being very busy people and planning their wedding from out of state, the Park Shore Resort served all their needs.

Clair and Kevin choose to see each other before the ceremony. We captured their first meeting and gave them a few special moments. the couple wanted to take advantage of all the wonderful areas we have in Traverse City, so we went to the Clinch Park Marina for family and wedding party photos.

After the ceremony guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d' oeuvres and a view of Grand Traverse Bay, before the festivities got started. A beautiful day turned into a wonderful night.

It was a pleasure to work with Clair and Kevin. Best wishes for many years of happiness.

Traverse City Beach and Vineyard Wedding

2009-08-06T11:13:00.003-04:00

A raining forecast is the not the best news when you are planning a beach/vineyard wedding. That was the prediction on June 19, but luck was with us and the rain held off. Tina and Matt's wedding celebration ended up taking place in some glorious soft light on the beach which photographers love.

The wedding was small and intimate as the couple exchanged their vows on a secluded beach on Traverse City's west bay in the presence of their families.

After family photos on the beach, everyone boarded the full size bus that the couple had acquired for the day and headed to TC marina for more photos. It was overcast which meant we could grab some great shots right out on the pier.

From there everyone boarded the bus and headed out Old Mission Peninsula to the Peninsula Cellars Vineyard tasting room. Matt is associated with the Vineyard and this made a perfect spot for a wine toast and more photos on the grounds.

We had a great time with Tina & Matt and wish them well!

Wedding on the Beach in Traverse City, Michigan

Beach and Vineyard Wedding in Traverse City

Vineyard Wedding in Traverse City, Michigan

Wedding at Trinity Lutheran Church & Park Place Hotel

2009-07-30T11:34:00.007-04:00

It was a beautiful day in Northern Michigan for a wedding as the sun was out and the air was warm. We again were lucky as we spent our day with Katherine and Roger in a gorgeous church and on the beach.

The couple had their ceremony at Trinity Lutheran Church in Traverse City Michigan. The church is very elegant and has some beautiful stain glass that we like to take advantage of in our photographs.

It was a very special occasion for Kate and Roger, made more so by the fact that so many of Rogers family had traveled long distances to be there. Roger had family from California, Texas and Vietnam. It was a great opportunity to capture memories of so many of these relatives together at the same time.

After formal photos at the church our Bride and Groom where chauffeured by Rolls Royce to the Traverse City Clinch Park Marina while the wedding party followed in a "party bus". At the marina we shot some great wedding party photos, as well as
Bride and Groom shots, with the beautiful Grand Traverse Bay in the background.

Kate and Roger then arrived at the Park Place Hotel, in downtown Traverse City. to join their guests in The Dome were their reception was being held.

Entertainment for the evening was provided by The Lookout Cats. As always the music was great and the guests crowded the dance floor. Everyone had a great time.

Best wishes to Kate and roger for many years of happiness.

Traverse City Wedding

Wedding at the Park Place Hotel

Park Place Hotel Travese City Michigan

Traverse City Wedding Photographer Purcell Photography

Married in Traverse City Michigan

Alisa & Marty in Lake City

2009-07-22T11:47:00.004-04:00

A few years ago we had the privilege of photographing the wedding of Scott and Laura. They were a great couple and a lot of fun to work with them and to meet their families, including Laura's five sisters!....So when Laura's sister Alisa became engaged and choose us to be her wedding photographers as well, we were very honored.

Alisa and Miguel were married at the Lake City Reformed Church, here in beautiful Northern Michigan. The wedding party included all of the brides sisters and many of Miguel's friends and brother-in-laws to be.

After the ceremony we traveled to the bride's parents home, which is known as Six Sisters Ranch, for the reception. It was a beautiful outdoor setting and once Miguel put on his cowboy hat, were were ready for some fantastic shots of our couple!

While guests enjoyed hors d' oeuvres in the barn, we took advantage of the pond and stone bridge area to capture photos that will always have sentimental value to Miguel and Alisa.

While the reception was in progress we had the opportunity to catch up with Scott and Laura who now have two children and one on the way! How time flies.

We enjoyed being part of Miguel and Alisa special day. Congratulations and best wishes for a very happy future.

Agape on the Bay

2009-06-19T10:13:00.006-04:00

While we normally find ourselves on the shore of Grand Traverse Bay or Lake Michigan for most of our weddings, this week we were on the shore of Lake Huron. The great thing about Northern Michigan weddings, is that there are so many beautiful options.

Matt and Kristy made a trip from the Detroit area to northern Michigan to scout out the perfect site for their wedding. What they found was Agape on The Bay, located south of Alpena in the small town of Ossineke, Michigan.

Kristy stated that they looked at a lot of venues, but when they reached Agape they knew they had found the perfect spot. Agape on The Bay is a wonderful site on the shore of Lake Huron. It feature a large lawn area, flower gardens and a permanent pavilion site for your reception. We met up with our beautiful bride, Kristy, in the bridal suite where she was able to relax and have her hair and make up done on site. Once she was dressed, we simply stepped outside to the lovely patio and garden area for bridal portraits.

With guests seated on the lawn and Lake Huron as a perfect backdrop,our Bag Piper lead the way for Kristy and her father to join Matt at the ceremony site and to exchange their vows. After the ceremony, guests greeted the newlyweds and gathered in the pavilion area for cocktails and Hors d' oeuvres. During this time we took some family photos, and then jumped on the limo bus with our wedding party to go to the nearby beach for some great shots.

Once back at the reception it was time for everyone to relax, eat ,dance and just have fun.

We enjoyed the opportunity to work with Matt and Kristy. Best wishes for a wonderful future.

Wedding at Agape on the Bay

Northern Michigan Wedding

Wedding in Northern Michigan

Wedding Photography by Traverse City Photographer Purcell Photography.

Wedding at Frog Pond Village in Interlochen

2009-06-08T14:34:00.005-04:00

Andrea and Brad made their commitment to each other on May 23rd and we at Purcell Photography were lucky to be a part of their special day.

Northern Michigan held a special place in Andrea's heart. Having spent many wonderful times in the area with her family, it was her first choice for the location of her wedding. The couple traveled from Chicago to enjoy all of the wonderful features of this part of Michigan.

Frog Pond Village is a quaint and romantic wedding venue located near Interlochen. Our couple were married tin the Bull Frog Chapel with their reception in the ballroom next door. The grounds are lovely and offered us many great spots for photos. While guests enjoyed cocktails we hopped on golf carts and sped down to nearby Lake Ellis for some quick images before dinner.

As you can see by our smiling photos, our couple enjoyed their special day immensely and we do wish them the best.

Start of the wedding at Frog Pond Village

Ceremony at Frog Pond Village

Our newly wed couple at Frog Pond Village

Frog Pond Village Wedding

Father daughter dance at Frog Pond Village

The Wedding celebration at Frog Pond Village photographed by Traverse City Wedding Photographer, Purcell Photography

Wedding at Castle Farms in Charlevoix

2009-06-02T14:28:00.007-04:00

The air may have been cool, but the sun was out and it was a beautiful day on May 16th in Charlevoix, Michigan. Located in Northern Michigan along the shores of Lake Michigan, Charlevoix is a beautiful little town with many attributes. One, is the spectacular Castle Farms. With a rich history going back over one hundred years, today Castle Farms serves as a premier wedding destination.

Our groom Nate, who was originally from Petoskey, Michigan, and his lovely Attorney bride Laurian, traveled from their home in Fresno, California, to tie the knot in the Knights Courtyard. With family and friends gathered on the lawn, Nate and Laurian became husband and wife under the arch of the castle.

As we took advantage of the beautiful grounds for photos, guests simply walked back across the lawn to the Knights Castle for the reception. Once a working cattle barn, you would never know it now.

This wedding was rescheduled at one point to make sure a very special guest could be in attendance. Charlotte! If the Bride had not been so beautiful, it would have been easy for her to steal the show!

The proud parents took this opportunity to introduce Charlotte to all of her new relatives. It was also very important to Nate and Laurian to get photos of Charlotte with her Grandparents and Great Grandparents. These will become more precious as time goes on.

It was our pleasure to work with this wonderful family and we wish Nate, Laurian and Charlotte the best that life has to offer.

Knights Castle at Castle Farms in Charlevoix Michigan

Charlevoix's Castle Farms

Castle Farms Weddings

Wedding at Castle Farms

Winter Wedding at the Hagerty Conference Center

2009-05-27T16:10:00.009-04:00

It was a beautiful snow covered day in December when Brenna and Jon exchanged vows. After the ceremony, which was held at the First Congregational Church in Traverse City, Michigan, our couple braved the weather for some spectacular out door photos.

We headed to downtown Traverse City and used to State Theater for a very distinctive background to the looks of a few passersbys. We also used other unique landmarks such as the massive wooden doors of a historic downtown church to also show the beauty of a northern Michigan winter.

From the downtown area it was just a short trip to the Hagerty Center, located on Grand Traverse Bay. Brenna and Jon enjoyed to company of their family and friends in the ballroom overlooking the bay. It was a wonderful night of celebration.

We extend or best wish to Brenna and Jon. May they have many years of happiness.

Wedding at the Hagerty Center

Hagerty Center, Traverse City Michigan

Winter Wedding
Hagerty Conference Center, Northwestern Michigan College

Traverse City Park Place Hotel

2009-05-16T09:44:00.006-04:00

Last Spring as we were perusing the lawn care isle at Home Depot my cell rang and Lisa told me she was on our website and loved our wedding photos. I thanked her and she stated that she wanted to book us for her wedding and proceeded to make a deposit as we spoke.

Being a very busy doctor, Lisa was looking for a venue that could do it all for her. She found a perfect match for her needs at the Park Place Hotel, located in downtown Traverse City, in beautiful Northern Michigan.

Lisa and Joel were able to hold all the events for their wedding right at the Park Place Hotel. With friends and family present, their Rabbi oversaw the signing of the Kutuba and Joel veiled his bride. The wedding party then moved to the Courtyard Room where the rest of their guests had gathered for the marriage ceremony.

After a lovely ceremony, Joel and Lisa's guests proceeded at the Top of The Park reception area located on the top floor of the hotel. The rooms all round glass windows offer one of the most striking views of the Grand Traverse Bay and Old Mission Peninsula. After dinner our couple enjoyed dancing and celebrating with friends.

Wedding at the Traverse City Park Place Hotel

Traverse City Weddings

Castle Farms Wedding in Charlevoix

2009-01-15T20:20:00.009-05:00

We all know that weddings can be stressful. That is why having your wedding at a venue such as Castle Farms near Charlevoix is such a great stress reliever. A bride as a variety of options for the ceremony to ensure that her wedding vision is fulfilled.

Our bride Angela on October 18th choose right the beginning to hold her fall wedding ceremony indoors in the Kings Great Hall. Thus, any worry about the weather was eliminated. It did turn out to be a pleasant day, so we were still able to use the garden areas around the Castle for many of our photos as well.

Angela and Brian were a fantastic couple to work with and it was a pleasure to be a part of their special day. Angela had a bubbly personality and Brian easy going and always grinning. We also need to say something about the parents. You could tell how very happy and excited they all were about the union of these two kids. Indeed, after the ceremony the parents walked down the aisle and once in the lobby had one great big group hug!

The wedding guests enjoyed a lovley reception held in the kings great Roon. With delicious food, great music, and good company, it was easy to see that everyone was having a great time at the Castle.

Best wishes to Angie and Brian

Castle Farms, Charlevoix,MI

Wedding at Castle Farms, Charlevoix

Weddings at Castle Farms

Castle Farms, Charlevoix

Another beautiful Wedding at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa

2008-12-30T16:17:00.005-05:00

When Debbie agreed to let her best friend at work play matchmaker on her behalf, it was the best decision she ever made. It worked out pretty good for Steve too!

On a beautiful October 11th Debbie and Steve were married at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa in northern Michigan. It worked out well for us because we had photographed Debbie's cousins wedding in 2006 and she recommended our services to Debbie.

Their ceremony was held under the Pavilion tent area overlooking the resort and golf course. It was only fitting that the person who brought them together, was the person to speak during their ceremony and tell their love story. To be honest, when she was done there was not too many dry eyes under the tent.

Steve and Debbie, along with their entire wedding party were a delight to work with. We love couples that seem to grin the entire day...and that is how we would describe Debbie and Steve...they and their guests had a blast!

Our couple was kind enough to let us slip them outside during the reception,which was being held in the Michigan Room. This gave us the opportunity to catch some romantic moon light photos.

Our very best wishes for many years of happiness to a great couple.

Wedding at the Grand Traverse Resort & Spa

Grand Traverse Resort Weddings

Back to the Homestead Resort in Glen Arbor

2008-11-20T15:34:00.010-05:00

Fall in Northern Michigan is a spectacular time of year. October 4th of this year at the Homestead Resort, was no exception. The Homestead Resort hosts many destination weddings. This beautiful October day, it was the site of Libby and Alan's wedding.

Obviously, planning a wedding is a very big task, just ask any bride and groom. But when it is a destination wedding, things can get a little more complicated. Libby felt a strong tie to the Homestead through her grandfather and a little bit of distance was not going to stop her. She was smart enough to hire wedding planner Terry Siepker, from Events By The Bay, to be her person on site here in Michigan.

Terry worked with Libby and her mother for over a year in planning a beautiful wedding. With Terry in charge of all the details, Libby and Alan had nothing to worry about. They were able to just enjoy their day.

Terry was thankful to also be working with Barb Ellis the wedding coordinator at the Homestead Resort, and her professional staff. Barb made sure that everything on the resorts end ran smoothly. She and Terry oversaw the decorating of an amazing reception site at Mountain Flowers Lodge. It was probably one of the most unique and creative reception areas we have seen in a while. She also made sure that the ski lift and golf carts were available to transport guests to the ceremony site, on top of Mountain Flowers.

Alan And Libby exchanged vows in the presence of their family and friends, with breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, in the background. The setting is truly one of the most stunning in Northern Michigan.

After photos a top of Mountain Flowers, Alan and his beautiful wife joined guests for a cocktail hour in the lobby of the lodge, before going in to dinner. The room looked spectacular. After dinner Alan and Libby cut their wedding cake, a beautiful creation by Aunt B's Cakes and Desserts. Then it was time to start dancing to the fabulous music of the 33rd Street Band.

It was and evening that everyone will remember for a long time.
Best wishes for a wonderful future.

Homestead Resort Weddings

Homestead Resort Wedding

Wedding at the Homestead Resort in Glen Arbor

Homestead Resort Wedding Photographer

Wedding at the Homestead Resort in Glen Arbor

2008-11-19T13:46:00.006-05:00

The Homestead Resort in Glen Arbor, Michigan is a beautiful location. It is fast becoming a major venue for weddings in northern Michigan. They advertise "Viewful Weddings" and they are right. For a couple looking for an elegant and unique outdoor setting for their wedding, the Homestead offers it all.

This was the case for Kathryn and Derek on September 27. It was everything they were looking for to make their wedding day one to remember.

Kathryn and Derek choose to see each other before the ceremony. We were able to capture that private moment for them. This then allowed us to travel to various sites on the extensive grounds for photos before hand.

Kathryn had her own very distinctive style. The flowers had feathers, and one flower girl had a tail!

When it was time for the ceremony, guests arrived at the top of Mountain Flowers. Shaped as an amphitheater, it provides guests with a great view of the ceremony as well as a spectacular view of Lake Michigan in the background.

Kathryn and Derek arrived at their reception, which was held at the Mountain Flowers Lodge, by way of Ski Lift. The Lodge features high wood beamed ceilings, large windows and a view of a waterfall right outside. And we also found enough time to sneak down to the beach for some quick photos as the sun was setting.

Everyone enjoyed a wonderful celebration. Congratulations. We wish a great couple continued happiness.

Melanie & Matt got Married at Bay Harbor Resort and Marina

2008-11-11T15:50:00.007-05:00

When Melanie and Matt were looking for a gorgeous and elegant setting for their wedding on September 20th, they found it at Bay Harbor Resort and Marina. Located in Petosky Michigan on the shores of Lake Michigan, Bay Harbor offers not only top rated accommodations and world class cuisine, but the two things our bride wanted most. Melanie wanted water and a beautiful sunset. She got them both.

Melanie and her ladies had a busy morning of preparations. Hair and make up were well in progress by the time we met up with them in their condo. With its large windows, the condo gave our bride a spectacular view of Lake Michigan as well as her ceremony site.

Our couple were married on the Observation Deck at the resort which is surrounded on three sides by water. Once all the guests had arrived and were seated, the trolley delivered Melanie and her attendants to the waters edge. Our bride, accompanied by her parents, made her way out on to the Observation Deck where Matt was waiting. It was picture perfect.

After the ceremony, guests made their way to the reception site, where Matt and Melanie hosted a cocktail hour. They were then invited in to the banquet room for dinner and dancing.

As guests enjoyed themselves we were able to sneak away with the bride and groom for Melanie's sunset pictures. It was one of the most gorgeous sunsets of the season. A handsome groom and a beautiful bride, what more could you ask for. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.

Our best wishes for many years of happiness.

Kathy & Jason Wed at Castle Farms in Charlevoix

2008-10-20T20:45:00.004-04:00

Castle Farms, with its extensive gardens, is beautiful any time of year. This Sunday on September 7th was no exception. With their guests seated on the lawn of the Knights Courtyard, Kathy and Jason exchanged their vows.

Charlevoix's Castle Farms is one of our favorite wedding venues. There are so many extraordinary picture taking opportunities, that it is hard to choose. We met up with Jason and his groomsmen in the Queens Courtyard with its massive stone arches, takes in the character of the castle and its history. The gardens make a perfect place for beautiful bridal portraits. Kathy and her ladies were a delight to work with. Plus we had two of the best flower girls ever! It can be a hard job being a flower girl, but our two little cuties did an excellent job.

The Knights Castle that had at one time served as a barn, is a fantastic stone and wood beamed building that makes a wonderful reception site. Our couple and their guests enjoyed dinner, dancing and an evening to remember forever.

Our best wishes for many years of happiness.

Luke and Laura get married at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa

2008-10-06T09:00:00.004-04:00

The Pavillion Tent at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa was the ceremorey site for Luke and Laura (you remember their soap opera don't you? :-)

It was a loveley day and our bride was lovley as well. It is so nice to be ath the Resort because of all the different photo opportunities. We took full advantage of this before and after the ceremony going around to all our favorite spots.

The Pavillion which is a covered area behind the Resort was where the ceremony was held and the officiant was the groom's brother. It certainly added a nice touch because he was able to personalize the ceremony.

It was a gorgeous evening and after dinner our couple agreed we should take more pictures around the resort, thus we got some great shots during the "golden time" just prior to sunset.

Laura and Luke were great to work with and ended up with many awesome photos.

Our best to Them!!!!

The Homestead Resort on August 30

2008-09-27T11:45:00.004-04:00

The Homestead Resort just outside of Glen Arbor is fast becoming a favorite location for area destination weddings. Anna and David certainly choose a beautiful day to exchange nuptials. The weather was perfect and the views spectacular.

Anna and David were married at Mountain Flowers, a wonderful ceremony site located high on a bluff above the Lake Michigan shoreline. Our couple had guests that traveled form all over the country and the world to attend the wedding. I'm sure they were not disappointed. The beauty of the location was second only to the beauty of the bride.

After sending their guests ahead to the reception area for cocktails and hor d' oeuvres, David and Anna took time for some wonderful Bride and Groom shots atop the mountain,before making a grand entrance to the reception area by ski lift.

The Mountain Flowers Lodge is just completing its first year as the reception site for most weddings. With its wonderful windows and views , the Lodge is an ideal setting. It is so convenient to have everything right at the resort. We were even able to sneak away with our couple for some sunset shots that we were glad we didn't miss.

We had a wonderful time, and it was certainly our pleasure to have been included in David and Anna's very special day.
congratulations and best wishes in the future.

Wedding on Bowers Harbor Bay

2008-09-24T10:10:00.005-04:00

On Old Mission Peninsula and located on the west side of Bowers Harbor, is Neah-Ta-Wanta Point. This was our unique outdoor location for the wedding of Celeste and Andy on August 16th.

Celeste chose to get married at her aunts home that sits high on a bluff at the very tip of the point. It was truly a beautiful setting for a wedding. The combination of the very old and grand oak trees, along with a blooming rose garden and a view of the water, made it a stunning setting. Celeste and Andy exchanged vows under the arbor as their many guests looked on.

After the ceremony guests enjoyed themselves at the outdoor reception held under a large white tent with the couple's favorite band. The tent was placed in the yard overlooking the water. The weather was of course outstanding, and our beaming couple obviously enjoyed their special evening.

Our best to Celeste and Andy.

Lake Michigan and Frog Pond Village in Interlochen

2008-09-18T11:18:00.006-04:00

Kris and Jim got Married!!

Camp Arcadia, set on the shores of Lake Michigan, is a Lutheran Family Retreat. This location has been a special place for our bride Kris and her family and became even more meaningful when Kris and Jim were united there on August 11th.

The beach area was set up for Kris and Jim's beautiful outdoor wedding. The ceremony was made even more special due to the fact that her father and brother, both Lutheran ministers, conducted the ceremony.

Jim and Kris met in Texas, the home state of our groom. Friends and family that traveled from Texas were treated to some of the most beautiful scenery northern Michigan has to offer.

The couple then moved from a gorgeous shoreline setting to a more woodland setting by choosing Frog Pond Village in Interlochen, Michigan for their reception. All of the guests enjoyed both locations on a picture perfect day.

We wish our newlyweds the very best and many years of happiness.

August 9th at the Ag-Ga-Ming Golf Course

2008-09-02T12:18:00.007-04:00

Showers in the morning gave way to a beautiful afternoon in Northern Michigan. This is just what Kimberly had hoped for. After all, it was her wedding day.

We started our day in the morning with the bride at A-Ga-Ming Golf Course, which was the site for Bill and Kimberly's reception. This was the 3rd Saturday in a row that our couple had selected our Unlimited Storybook Package.

We had a gorgeous view of the woods and Torch Lake right outside Kimberly's condo. It made it very relaxed and stress free to be able to stay so close for her bridal portraits. The brides's parents and the ladies were there as well so we took advantage of the scenery for many great shots.

The wedding ceremony was held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Elk Rapids Michigan. After being united in marriage Bill and Kimberly traveled to different outdoor settings for photos. Torch Lake in one of this areas most beautiful lakes.

A-Ga-Ming Golf Course is located high on the bluffs overlooking the lake and offers many breathtaking views. The reception was held in the facilities large white tent just off the club house. Even though the evening became breezy, the guests were very comfortable inside the tent and partied the night away.

Congratulations and Best wishes to Kimberly and Bill

A Northern Michigan Destination Wedding

2008-08-15T13:32:00.009-04:00

Jennifer and Marco choose Traverse City Michigan for their destination Wedding site.

While the couple lived in California and most of their relatives were in Canada and through out the states, Traverse City made a perfect location for everyone to gather for this special occasion.

The Grand Traverse Resort and Spa was the guest venue and wedding location our bride and groom selected. Jennifer and Marco decided on the the area of the resort complex called The Shores, for the ceremony site. With the sparkling waters of Grand Traverse Bay behind them, Marco and Jennifer exchanged their vows before family and friends.

Back on the main resort grounds the reception was held under the pavilion tent. The unique yellow tented pavilion area is a great location for an open air reception. The weather cooperated fully to make a very pleasant evening.

We are sure that both Jennifer and Marco, along with their guests, will always have very fond memories of their time here in northern Michigan.

We would like to extend our congratulations and best wishes to Marco and Jennifer.

Historic Guardian Angels Church in Manistee

2008-08-15T12:31:00.007-04:00

Our wedding this beautiful summer day took us to the resort town of Manistee, Michigan located on the shores of Lake Michigan.

Kimberly and Ryan were married at the historic Guardian Angels Catholic Church on August 2nd. It is a beautiful church, rich in history and tradition. We had already met the couple earlier in the Spring when we did their engagement photos and knew that they were relaxed, easy going and would be great to work with.

After the ceremony, Kimberly and Ryan along with their wedding party, traveled by trolley to different locations in Manistee for photos. Our first stop was down at the shore of Lake Michigan. The dunes and sparkling waters were perfect for photos. Our second stop was to a very unique stretch of road just outside Manistee where the trees formed a living tunnel. It was fantastic for group shots, as well as Bride and Groom photos.

We made our way to the reception, which was held at Little River Casino and Resort. The different areas in the Casino and hotel complex, gave us more opportunities for great shots of our couple.

It was a pleasure to have been included in Kimberly and Ryan's special day. We wish them only the best in the future.

July 18th at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa

2008-08-15T12:02:00.009-04:00

It was a beautiful Saturday in Traverse City, Michigan ( I know this sentence is becoming redundant, but it is true). Mike and Renee had chosen the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa to host their wedding.

Our couple choose our Storybook package which features unlimited time for photo coverage which we love because we get to experience the entire event and have a front row seat as the day unfolds.

We first caught up to our lovely bride at the Spa, as she and the ladies of the wedding were getting their hair done and enjoyed a little bit of pampering before the day got too hectic. The men, of course, were out playing golf!

We love working at the resort. It offers us so many wonderful options for memorable photos. We were able to take some spectacular bridal portraits of Renee overlooking the greens of the golf course with the tower of the resort in the background.

Mike and Renee choose the resorts beach setting, The Shores, located on the east arm of Grand Traverse Bay, for their outdoor ceremony.

Back at the main resort the reception was held in The Michigan Room. After dinner as the sun began to set, we took our couple out for some fun shots with their wedding party. We then took advantage of the beautiful evening to get romantic shots of Mike and Renee.

We should note that once the celebration started, it STARTED! It is suffice to say the Renee and Mike and their friends take their partying seriously...unfortunately for our BLOG we had to save the best reception photos for our couple's Flush Mount album.

Everyone had a great time and so did we.

Our very best to a wonderful couple.

2008-08-15T12:02:00.000-04:00

St Andrew's Presbyterian Church in Beulah

2008-07-28T17:05:00.004-04:00

Mike and Celina had been planning their wedding for over a year. They were married at St Andrew's Presbyterian Church in Beulah, Michigan on July 19. The church has large glass windows overlooking Lake Michigan. The reception was held at The Bull Frog, at Frog pond Village in Interlochen.

When the big day finally arrived all their efforts really paid off. I have not seen a more original and creative theme in a very long time. Our bride had worked many hours to make her wedding very special and unique. Celina had gone with a theme of flowers.....Paper Flowers! From the decorations for the pews, to the arrangements on the alter, big open faced,multi colored flowers greeted you. Our bridesmaids carried bouquets of bright pink petaled flowers. The gentlemen in our wedding party sported matching boutonnieres. The bride had fashioned for herself a beautiful crystal spray for her bridal bouquet. She even hand beaded her shoes to match.

Celina and Mike were a delightful couple to work with. You could tell that they were just so happy. Our Bride was beaming continously and I don't think I saw Mike without a smile on his face all day long. The wedding party was a lot of fun to work with too. You could tell that they all were very happy to be part of the day.

We wish Celina and Mike many happy years together.

Frog Pond Village near Interlochen

2008-07-21T21:03:00.005-04:00

On Saturday July 5 we went to the popular Frog Pond Village for Alexandria and Eric's wedding in the Tad Pole garden. Our couple had a beautiful mid summer day as they exchanged their vows at the outside open air chapel.

Following the ceremony guests moved to the front garden and patio area to enjoy cocktails and hors d' oeuvres. This was a great time to get photos of our couple and their guests.

After dinner our couple and their guests enjoyed dancing and visiting the "s' mores" station that they had set up outside.

We had a lot of fun with Alexandria and Eric and best wishes to them.

Crooked Creek Ranch

2008-07-21T15:40:00.006-04:00

When you get married in northern Michigan, it is always nice to be able to take advantage of the beautiful and varied outdoor features, as well as areas that capture the local feel.

Amy and Dan were able to do both by choosing Crooked Creek Ranch as both their ceremony and reception site.

Located in the rolling hills of the Leelanau Peninsula, Crooked Creek Ranch has everything you could want. You find yourself surrounded by meadows, and horses grazing in the pasture. Amy and Dan were married under the branches of a sprawling tree. In the background was a view of the shoreline of Lake Leelanau. The ranch's fantastic big red barn has been restored to serve as a unique reception venue. But it is no ordinary barn. It is a structure that is both quaint and elegant.

Amy and Dan are a couple that I can truthfully say really enjoyed their wedding. Once the music started they danced and danced and danced!

It was great to see and we wish them ongoing happiness.

Robyn and Chris

2008-07-07T17:03:00.006-04:00

Omena Presbyterian Church, founded in 1858, is located in the small resort community of Omena, Michigan on the Leelanau Peninsula. The little white church has served as a landmark and place of worship for 150 years. It was the quaint setting for Robyn and Chris's wedding ceremony on June 28.

After the ceremony, guests were shuttled to the brides parents beautiful home a short distance away in Northport, Michigan. Located at the very tip of the Leelanau Peninsula, the home offered a wonderful woodland setting as well as a spectacular beach venue on the shore of Lake Michigan.

The dinner reception area looked absolutely stunning. Wedding and Event coordinator Allison Beers and her staff transformed the area into an elegant outdoor dining area. It seemed that no detail was overlooked, with a fantastic color scheme of hot pinks, orange and lime the area really popped. Beautiful and elegant floral arrangements completed the look.

But there was more! Our couple chose to set up a separate area looking out over the water for their guests to first enjoy cocktails and hors d' oeuvres. Later it served as a dance area complete with pink and green lanterns to light the night. Everyone had a wonderful time dancing to the music and helping the couple celebrate their very special day.

Our very best to Robyn and Chris.

Friday at Timberlee Hills

2008-07-05T12:47:00.007-04:00

Tucked away on top of a ski hill in Traverse City, Michigan, is Timberlee Resort. The location offers not only a beautiful outdoor garden setting for weddings, but also an on site reception area as well.

With a scenic view of the rolling hills of the country side behind them, guests witnessed Jen and Clete exchange their vows.

As guests enjoyed cocktails out on the deck, we were able to spend time with our couple and get some fantastic shots.

As a special favor to his granddaughter, Jen's grandfather from the Upper Peninsula brought his super classy, super cool 1938 Buick. Now that's a photo opp! What a great car.....and grandfather.

Jen and Clete had a wonderful wedding day and we truly wish them the best.

Bayfront Park in Petoskey

2008-07-02T21:01:00.001-04:00

It rained very hard Sunday morning in Petosky Michigan. That was good.... they say it is good luck to have it rain on your wedding day. Plus, it got it all out of its system and the rest of the day was absolutly georgous.

Our Bride and Groom, Nicole and Steve had a wonderful day planned that included a beautiful outdoor ceremony located at the foot of the waterfall at Bay Front Park. After the ceremony we took advantage of the wonderful backdrop of Little Traverse Bay for many of our photos.

The reception was held at the historic Perry Hotel in downtown Petosky. With its destinctive wrap around porch and main stair case, the Perry made a perfect setting for family and group photos.

It was a pleasure to be part of Nicole and Steve's special day. We wish them the best.

Homestead Resort near Glen Arbor

2008-06-25T11:54:00.002-04:00

Last Saturday we were fortunate to spend most of the day at the Homestead Resort near Glen Arbor, on the shores of Lake Michigan. We were there to photograph the wedding of Jessica and Tony who were a delight to work with.

We were thrilled when we found out that they wanted to do all of their photos at the Resort prior to the ceremony. This gave us the chance to travel around the Resort and take advantage of all of the magnificent views and scenery.

The ceremony was held on top of Mountain Flowers which provided a majestic vista over looking the Lake Michigan with Manitou Island in the background.

After a champagne toast on the mountain, all the guests traveled by golf cart back down to Nonna's Loft for a candle lite dinner.

Best wishes to Jessica & Tony.

Our Saturday Wedding at Trinity Lutheran

2008-06-19T20:54:00.003-04:00

This past weekend we the pleasure of being part of Ellisa and Andrew's special day at Trinity Lutheran Church in Traverse City.

Trinity Lutheran is one of the more elegant churches in the area and sure makes a great setting for wedding photography. After the ceremony the couple left in horse drawn carriage for the reception with a short stop at the local marina for some photos.

Best wishes to Ellisa & Andrew

New Engagement Photos

2008-05-31T21:05:00.007-04:00

We have been busy taking a lot of engagement photos this spring. It is always nice to spend time initially with our couples in a relaxed atmosphere. This gives everyone a chance to get to know each other little bit better.

We just beat the rain showers at the TC marina when we took Laura and Luke's photos. This is one of our favorite spots when the weather cooperates because of the variety of scenery.

Laura and Luke are getting married at the Grand Traverse Resort in Septemember.

Kimberly and Ryan are getting married in August at the beautiful Guardian Angels Catholic church in Manistee.

Renee and Mike have a beach wedding planned in July in Traverse City.

Memorial Weekend at the Castle

2008-05-27T09:17:00.006-04:00

It was a cool but gorgeous spring day at Charlevoix's Castle Farms for Carrie and Rudi's wedding.

With the guests assembled in the Queens courtyard, the bride made her grand entrance by horse drawn carriage. After a lovely ceremony the bride and groom rode off to enjoy a few minutes alone together.

Later the couple joined their guests in Queens Travern tent for an evening of celebration.

Congratulations to Carrie & Rudi

Memorial Day Weekend

2008-05-26T10:40:00.006-04:00

Erin described this part of northern Michigan as one of her favorite places on earth. So it was only fitting that Erin and John decided to make their wedding reflect their love for the great outdoors.

Frog Pond Village in Interlochen with its unique woodland setting was the perfect choice for the couple.

The couple exchanged vows in the Bull Frog open air chapel. Before the reception, guests enjoyed hors d'oeuvres and the woodland setting that includes ponds, flowers and the scent of the pines.

Our best to Erin and John.

It always happens this way!!

2008-05-18T20:52:00.015-04:00

On Saturday May 17th we traveled to the Charlevoix for a Betsy and Jonah's wedding at the charming Belvedere Club.

Our couple had planned a beatuful spring time wedding in Norhtern Michigan, but alas, an hour before the start of the wedding, it was pouring rain. Our bride, however, was taking it all in stride as it was going to take more than a little rain to ruin her special day.

The pink umbrellas were perfect and useful props for the all the ladies. And, as it always seem to happen, we finish taking photos on our dry porch, the sky began to lighten, the clouds parted and blue sky appreared on the horizon. Volunteers were rounded up and the towel brigade went to work, chairs were dryed and guests were seated.

As our lovely bride walked down the isle she did it in sunshine and admiring gaze of her husband to be.

Cathy

2007-12-25T14:44:00.000-05:00

Well it has been another busy, exciting and satisfying year.
Our work has taken us from the beach to the woods, to vineyards, orchards, churches and parks.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of being wedding photographers is that we are able to go to some of the most scenic and beautiful settings in northern Michigan. Our travels this year has taken us to such diverse places as State Parks, private homes, and resorts. We have been to small rural stone churches to the grand and beautiful Bay Harbor.

Everyone has their vision of the perfect wedding. Every wedding is memorable and unique. We have seen our brides arrive by horse and by boat. Grooms in tuxes and sometimes not. Long dresses, short dresses and multi colored dresses. Tall cakes, small cakes and cupcakes. We have enjoyed wonderful Mexican, Chinese, Italian food and sushi!

It gives us pleasure and is both an honor and a privilege to be part of our couples very special day. Both of us would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our wonderful couples and wish them a Happy New Year with many more to come.

Dennis and Cathy

Take a look at just a few of our 2007 weddings!!!!

Selected Again!!

2007-12-15T20:47:00.000-05:00

We were thrilled to learn this week that the Northern Michigan Wedding Guide selected one of our photos for their 2008 cover.

This was the 2nd time in the past four years that we have one of our lovely couples on the front of the area's premier wedding publication.

Our gorgeous Fall Wedding as seen in the Traverse City Record-Eagle

2007-10-14T11:03:00.000-04:00

It was a gorgeous Fall day for Diane and Andy's wedding celebration at the Traverse City Resort.

And as if luck would have it, we got a call the following Monday from the local Newspaper about doing an interview for Fall Weddings. We then told the reporter that we had just photographed a spectacular wedding the past Saturday and had many great photos. We sent a photo to them that we thought captured the ambiance of the day and they loved it!!

Fall is a perfect time to get married in Northern Michigan. With great weather and beautiful fall colors, the 55th Hole, nestled among the turning trees at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa made a perfect ceremony site.

Diane and Andy were a great couple to spend the day with...they did not stop smiling the whole day and seemed to enjoy every minute of their celebration.

Diane chose fall colors through out her wedding, carrying a beautiful bouquet of deep maroon,reds and orange leafs. Fall fruits such as apples and baby pumpkins decorated the Michigan Ballroom at the resort where the reception was held.

Andy and Dianne had a truly memorable day. Thank you for letting us be part of it.

Cathy, BlogMaster

To view a slide show of the wedding double click the Play button.

Slide Show of a recent wedding

2007-09-18T10:57:00.000-04:00

We recently photographed a beautiful event at Timberlee Resort, the wedding of Amanda & Mike. The reception was later held at the Park Place Hotel.

Best Wishes to a great couple.

Click below to view a slide show of the event.

Leland Lodge Ceremony

2007-09-08T08:11:00.000-04:00

The Leland Lodge in quaint town of Leland was the setting for the marriage celebration of Jennifer and Nick.

You could not have asked for a better day to hold an outside ceremony in northern Michigan. The ceremony was held in the courtyard of the lodge to the music of a string quartet.

Our bride looked stunning in her lace overlay gown with its simple and elegant accent of a simple sash at the waist. Special members of the wedding party included our flower girl, Kiaya and Charlie, the ring bearer. Charlie sported a bell on his collar, while Kiaya had a collar decorated in flowers for this special occasion.

After the ceremony guests moved to the outside deck area overlooking the golf course for cocktails and hors d' oeuvres, before moving into the dining room. After dinner we stole our bride and groom away for a short while. With the beautiful beach of Lake Michigan so close, we did not want to miss the opportunity for fantastic photos.

Once we returned, it was time to get the party started with the music of the Fabulous Horn Dogs! We left our couple doing just what they should on their wedding day, having a good time.

Our best wishes.

~~Cathy, Blogmaster~~

Back at the Castle

2007-09-01T09:06:00.000-04:00

The Queens Courtyard at Charlevoix's Castle Farms provided a grand setting for the marriage of Jessie and Jodi.

Many family and friends gathered on a beautiful day to witness the ceremony that would united not just Jessie, but his children too, to Jodi to form a new family.

The atmosphere was very festive. We used the Butterfly Garden to gather friends and family together to capture lots of photos and memories.

It was a pleasure to be included in their special day. Best wishes for many years of happiness.

Cathy ~~ Blogmaster

A celebration at Ciccone Vineyard

2007-08-08T09:39:00.000-04:00

Ciccone Vineyard, located on the beautiful Leelanau Peninsula, served as both ceremony and reception site for the marriage of Michelle and Michael. Situated on the top of a rolling hill side, the guests were treated to spectacular views of both the country side and Grand Traverse Bay.

The reception was held inside the Red Barn located at the vineyard, Guests toasted the newly married couple with wine from the vineyard, and enjoyed an evening of celebration.

We wish Michelle and Michael much happiness in the future.
Cathy, Blog Master

Our lucky 7/7/07 Wedding!!

2007-07-26T13:16:00.001-04:00

The Grand Traverse Resort and Spa served as host for the marriage of Laren and David.

We first caught up to our bride and her party at ths salon while finishing touches to hair and make-up were being applied.

Lauren returned to her room to finish getting dressed and then, accompaied by her parents, went to meet David at the Pavillion. The Groom was obvisously taken aback by his beautiful bride. We took this time before the ceremony to take Bride and Groom portraits, as well as family groupings.

It was then time for our couple to return inside and meet with the Rabbi for the signing of the Ketubah. The Ketubah is the marriage contract which is signed by the couple, their parents and the Rabbi. It has standing as a legal document and the couple is now married in the eyes of their faith.

The ceremony was held outside under the pavillion. Even mans best freind was an honored guest. The couple stood under the Chuppah that had been Larens grandmothers. The couple drank from the Kiddish cup to symbolize their joy. The glass was broken and shouts of Mazel Tov and congradulations greeted the couple as the made their way down the asile.

The Michigan Room was transformed into a thing of beauty. The flowers were exquisite. Their florist and designer from Chicago did a masterful job. Lighting, draping and linins all went together to make a very impressine place to celebrate.

~~Cathy, Blogmaster

Queens Castle at Castle Farms

2007-07-14T09:23:00.000-04:00

We found ourselves back at Castle Farms on June 30 for the wedding of Chris and Katie. Castle Farms is very expansive, and offers several areas to hold your wedding. Katie and Chris choose to be married at the Queens Castle. From the stone arches to the center court fountain, the Queens courtyard is a very regal setting.

The Kings Hall served as the reception site. Guest amused themselves after the ceremony by playing chess on the giant outdoor lawn board, with games of croquet, and soaking up sun while enjoying hors d'oeuvres and cocktails.

The hall looked lovely, with tables being decorated with beautiful deep deep red calla lilies, which accented the elegant black and white theme of the wedding.

Katie and Chris had a wonderful affair and we wish them much happiness in the future.
~~~Cathy, Blogmaster

A Castle Wedding!

2007-07-06T20:45:00.000-04:00

On June 24th Crystal and Dan said their vows at Charlevoix's Castle Farms. Castle Farms is a very unique venue for a wedding. It was originally built as a dairy farm, and has been many things over the years, even a concert venue for such groups as Aerosmith and Ozzy Osborne. Today, after extensive renovations, it offers couples the opportunity to get married at a medival castle.

Dan and Crystal came from southern Michigan to have such a wedding. The beautiful Knights Courtyard was the setting for the outside ceremony. With help from her attendants, big and small, the bride prepared for her ceremony. The couple exchanged their vows under a stone arch that leads to one of the many towers.

Guests were treated to a cocktail hour on the courtyard lawn and we used this area for shots of our bride and groom and many of the wedding guests. The reception was held in the adjacent Knights Hall. With its stone work and high timbers, you never lose the feeling of being in a castle.

After enjoying dinner the guests helped the couple celebrate their marriage with their first dance.

With the fine services of George McDonald from Harbor View Entertainment, everyone enjoyed an evening of dancing and entertainment at the Castle.

As always, our very best to Crystal and Dan.

~~~ Cathy, Blogmaster

A romantic spot on Lake Michigan

2007-06-28T14:55:00.000-04:00

Wilderness State Park, located in northern Michigan, takes in a large area of forest and Lake Michigan shoreline. This rustic setting was the site that Shannon and Brent choose for their beach wedding on June 16th. The weather was just ideal for a beach wedding.

The guests followed a sandy path through the trees, down to the beach where the couple had set up their ceremony site. With a quartet playing the bride and her father walked down an aisle lined with seashells to meet her groom.

After the ceremony, guests traveled to the Historic Bay View Hotel which was built in 1886. It is located in the Historic Landmark District of Petosky.

This location provided us with beautiful views of Little Traverse Bay and was a perfect setting for photos of family and our wedding party.

After dinner we escorted the bride and groom from the banquet room to take shots as the sun started to set. This gave the bride and groom a much needed break, and us an opportunity for some great photos.

The rest of the evening was devoted to just having lots of fun. One of the highlights of the night was the father-daughter dance where dad showed he could still cut a rug!!

Our best to Shannon and Brent.

~~~Cathy, Blogmaster

Perfect Day at Haggerty Center

2007-06-21T10:33:00.000-04:00

The Great Lakes Maritime Academy and Haggerty Center is a wonderful venue to hold both your wedding ceremony and reception. Sarah and Matt had a beautiful outdoor ceremony held in the courtyard overlooking Grand Traverse West Bay.

Sarah and her bridesmaids got ready at the Bay Shore Resort which is just a short walk down the beach. The wind was light and the sun shimmering on the water. It made a great location for relaxed photos beforehand.

The Haggerty Center is a unique reception site. It features outside patio seating as well as a main room with lots of big windows. Guests are treated to the wonderful views of Grand Traverse Bay all night long.

After dinner we snatched Sarah and Matt outside for a break. The sun was getting lower in the sky which made the perfect setting for some bride and groom photos. A warm glow on the water made it perfect for romantic shots and, of course, no coaching was needed for Sarah and Matt to just enjoy each other.

It was a fun day and we wish our couple the best.

--- Cathy, Blogmaster

Saturday June 2 in Traverse City

2007-06-15T09:07:00.001-04:00

Kelli and Jeremy were joined by many friends and family members as they exchanged vows at First Bible Baptist Church in Traverse City.

The Bride looked stunning in her white taffeta, strapless, pickup skirt gown. Her attendants wore champagne gowns with petal pink sashes that flowed down the back.

Jeremy looked equally dashing as did all the men in the wedding party. The groom's two brothers served as his best men.

After the ceremony we accompanied the wedding party to Clinch Park Marina in Traverse City. We had just finished up our photographs of our wedding party and couple when a brief shower sent us on to reception.

One of our favorite reception sites is the Park Place Hotel. The party was held in the spacious Dome where the dancing and fun took place.

Our best wishes to Kelli and Jeremy.
~~Cathy,Blogmaster

Wedding at Historic Watervale Inn

2007-06-08T10:05:00.000-04:00

Watervale Resort was the site for our Sunday May 27th wedding of Angela and Todd. Watervale is a quaint and unique resort that has been in the bride's family for over one hundred years. Many special events have occurred there over the years and it was the perfect place for Angela and Todd to get married. The ceremony was held outside in the backyard of the brides parents home, overlooking Upper Herring Lake.

The weather forecast had been a concern earlier in the week, however the day turned out to be very pleasant. In the morning, the groom and his best man had spent a few hours building a Chuppah. A Chuppah in the Jewish faith symbolizes the home the couple will share which protects them from harm.

Unfortunately, just as the first guests were starting to arrive a gust of wind came up, blew the Chuppah to the ground, and broke one of the containers of colored sand for the sand ceremony; but all was not lost. The glass was cleaned up, sand was salvaged and a replacement vase found. During the ceremony, four of the brides cousins stood on Chuppah guard. The couple was indeed protected from harm.

Our couple chose a very special friend to be a member of their wedding party...Echo the family dog! Echo and nephew Trevor shared ring bearer duties and both did a stand up job.

After the ceremony, guests enjoyed a cocktail hour on the deck overlooking Lower Herring Lake. They then joined the bride and groom at The Watervale Inn where the reception dinner was held. After dinner and the cake cutting, guests moved down to the Casino for dancing with music provided by The Lookout Cats. We were able to take advantage of this time to steal away with the Bride and Groom down to the beach of Lake Michigan. It was a gorgeous evening and we were able to take some spectacular sunset pictures. It was our pleasure to be part of this wonderful day.

~~Cathy, Blog Master

Memorial Weekend Peninsula Wedding

2007-06-05T11:11:00.000-04:00

For our May 26th event, Kristy and Joe planned a wedding that was rich in local history and landmarks. The ceremony was at St. Jospeph's Mapleton Catholic Church which is located on Old Mission Peninsula.

After the ceremony the wedding party traveled to the Old Mission Lighthouse photos. This landmark, with its unique beach setting, is one of our favorite sites to visit when we have a wedding on the peninsula.

The couple chose another historical landmark for their reception, Bowers Harbor Inn. Guests enjoyed a cocktail hour on the front patio area that incorporated wonderful views of the bay and the beautiful grounds .

The Bride and Groom received their guests in the backyard of the Inn under a large , beautifully decorated tent. Beneath the tent, guests were protected from the rain that finally came that evening. Everyone gathered around the couple for the cutting of their very impressive cake. Later our Groom and his groomsmen serenaded our lovely bride.
~~Cathy, BlogMaster

Rain on your wedding day = good luck!!

2007-06-01T08:04:00.000-04:00

On Saturday May 19th it was a hot, humid day and we traveled to Frog Pond Village in Interlochen, MI. for Kristy and Todd's wedding. They say that it is good luck to have rain on your wedding day and we did have a few sprinkles, however the weather improved as the day went on. We were able to take advantage of the beautiful woodland setting for photos of the Groom and his groomsmen, as well as the Bride and her attendants before the ceremony.

All was well until the guests started to find their seats and sprinkles began to appear. Not to worry as Karen Snyder of Frog Pond Village was there in a minute with large white umbrellas. The Reverend Ken Grimes was not fazed by a little shower nor was our Bride and Groom. By the time the couple made their return trip down the aisle as husband and wife, the rain had stopped.

After the ceremony, the Bride and Groom along with their wedding party, took a horse drawn carriage from Abraham's Carriage Service down to Ellis Lake for more photographs. "Joy" looked very regal as she transported our couple.

After a toast by best man, the guests enjoyed a wonderful meal, the couple had their first dance and,of course, cut their wedding cake.
~~Cathy, Purcell Photography

Wednesday evening, small intimate wedding.

2007-05-23T20:53:00.000-04:00

The Traverse City State Park Beach and Picnic area was the site of Christy and Heath's wedding. Although the late afternoon was drizzly, breezy and cold, our bride and groom did not seem to notice. They had other things on their mind. Love conquers all.

A touching ceremony on the lawn was performed by Traverse City officiant Jeanne Hanna. The couple had two of their best friends serve as their attendants and witnesses.

Christy and Heath came to Traverse City to get married with beach pictures in mind. After the ceremony we moved down to the waters edge, where the groom did not need any coaching to cuddle up to his lovely bride to keep her warm. It was our pleasure to be part of Christy and Heath's special day. Best wishes for a bright future.

Saturday at Crystal Mountain

2007-05-14T09:39:00.000-04:00

Saturday was gorgeous and we traveled to Crystal Mountain for Jennifer and Andy's wedding. It was apparent that the couple put a great deal of time and thought into their wedding and all of their efforts really paid off as it was gorgeous.

The rings were misplaced for a short time, but no need to panic. They were found safe and sound a short time later. Our Bride looked stunning, especially wearing the beautiful set of pearls that were a special gift from the Groom.

Before the ceremony, everybody climb on a bus and we traveled to a cherry orchard and to Lake Michigan for some fantastic shots that you can only get here in beautiful northern Michigan.

The marriage was an outside ceremony on the lawn in front of the gazebo. The colors were a chocolate brown and sky blue combination. This theme was carried through out the ceremony and reception. We was impressed with all the details. From the coffee bean candle centerpieces for the coctail tables, to the blue candies on the candy buffet table, everything was perfect. The Bride and Groom wanted a fun and relaxed feeing for themselves and their guests.

Adirondack chairs were an important part of their wedding theme. The wedding cake, the place card holders, napkin holders were all part that idea.

Congratulations to Jenny and Andy

~~Cathy, of Purcell Photography

First wedding of the Year!

2007-05-10T07:24:00.000-04:00

On Saturday, May 5th we had our first wedding of the year. Harbor Springs was the location that Tom and Laura chose for their small, intimate wedding. The ceremony was attended by the people who were most important in their lives...their parents.

The ceremony was performed by a very good friend of the couple which also added to their special day. Even though the day was a bit blustery, our Bride and Groom wanted at least some water pictures. Fortunately, the wind gave us a break and we got some great bay shots.

Then, it was on to Harbor Springs famous eatery, the New York Restaurant, for their celebration dinner.

We wish Laura & Tom many years of happiness.

Engagement Photos

2007-05-07T08:59:00.000-04:00

On Friday May 4 with met Sarah & Matt for engagement photos. It was a beautiful day and we were able to take advantage of some of our great sites here in Traverse City.

Sarah and Matt are a friendly, outgoing and fun loving couple. They were so relaxed and ready to have a good time with their photos, which made our job easy. They are both naturals in front of the camera. Sarah knew how to "work " the camera, and Matt has a great smile. Also, Sarah and Matt also had some of their own ideas for poses and settings and this made their photos very much a representation of who they are as a couple.

We looking forward to their wedding. It should be a wonderful day with Fantastic photos to prove it!

-Cathy, Associate Photographer