Tell me about your dress. Where did you find it, how did you choose it, how did you know it was the one? Who were you with? How did you choose the grooms outfit?
My dress came from Catherine Simms in Naperville IL. I looked at plenty of dresses before my final choice and had my mom, step mom, now mother-in-law, and bridesmaids with me. Many dresses made me feel like a queen, and I felt like a million dollars in practically each and every one I tried on. I actually didn’t find a single dress I loved at the first place I looked. Then, I found THE ONE at Catherine Simms. It was flattering, simple, elegant, and perfect for the beach. The simple beading at the waist called for simple/pearl jewelry, which allowed me to keep the overall look soft and flowy.
Even though it was raining a little, it didn’t stop the first look with umbrellas, it actually made it super sweet!
Did you see each other before the wedding? If not, did you like waiting or would you have rather done it differently? Tell me why or why not!
Yes, Michael and Amber had a fist glance in West Bay. The weather didn’t cooperate, but Rebecca can’t control mother nature.
Amber: The look of relief on Michael’s face during our first glance. We waited for what seemed like forever for the rain to stop, and it was all worth it. The feeling of being surrounded by so many loved ones. Not having a care in the World, other than having the time of my life.
How would you describe your overall wedding experience?
Michael’s response: Great- could not have asked for a better day.
Amber’s response: The greatest day of my life.
Go with REBECCA DAVIDSON! š Meet your photographer in advance and discuss expectations. Building rapport prior to your big day is critical, especially if you have to discuss back up plans due to unforeseen situations.
Listen to and trust your photographer. Things may seem weird at the time, but they know what they’re doing, and the output will be worth it.
Trust what you see on their website. You have one day to capture these memories! If that means spending a little more for the higher quality, YOU ARE WORTH IT. Don’t skimp on photography or videography. Capturing precious moments isn’t a skill, it’s an art.
How did he pop the question?
Technically, he never did. Michael and Amber drove from the Chicago suburbs up to Bells Brewery in Kalamazoo, MI to celebrate their 3 year anniversary. Instead of exchanging gifts that year, they each exchanged handmade cards. Ironically, each of their cards was a bit similar in style, but Michael’s ended up taking the cake- and was a compilation of interactive pages, telling a story of memories from year 1, to year 2, to current. The final page of his card showed an empty ring box with a question mark. The page did the asking, not Michael.
Michael and Amber met in Aurora, IL at a bar called The Foundry. Amber subbed on Michael’s volleyball team over one summer. During that summer, they became great friends, flirting, talking, and prolonging a relationship that everyone else already knew was there.
Michael was most worried about not being able to get through the ceremony without turning into an emotion wreck. He got a little choked up during the ceremony, but made it through. He was also worried about the weather during the first look. The outcome was that he was just happy to see Amber was still happy, and wasn’t letting the weather ruin the experience.
How did you feel during your vows or just before you walked down the aisle?
Michael was very nervous, not being accustomed to being the focal point for so many people. Their wedding of 70 people turned into 150+ considering all Marriott guests’ eyes were on them.
What was your favourite moments from the wedding?
Michael’s response: Everything_ The dancing, dinner, wedding party speeches, it was all great. Amber saying ” I do”. Kissing the bride.
Rebecca was great! Michael’s fondest memory is the electrocuting fake camera she let him use at the end of the evening. But even before that, she was great. She was able to herd our wedding party for photos. She was quick and thorough so we weren’t sitting around waiting for the next shot. Was very open with what our options were considering some inclement weather, but made things work. She was constantly gauging our satisfaction with her shots, making sure she going to exceed our expectations. Our wedding party loved her, and we love her!
We were very glad that Rebecca put buffers in our schedule, as we were running way behind. Tips: we appreciated the tip sheet you provided in advance….that made me want to add more twinkle to the centerpieces, and the celebrations lighting.
Michael was most worried about not being able to get through the ceremony without turning into an emotion wreck. He got a little choked up during the ceremony, but made it through. He was also worried about the weather during the first look. The outcome was that he was just happy to see Amber was still happy, and wasn’t letting the weather ruin the experience.
Michael’s fondest memory is the electrocuting fake camera she let him use at the end of the evening. HAHAHA this is actually Michael electrocuting his family and guests. I always carry a little camera in my bag that electrocutes you when you push the button (I mean doesn’t everyone have one of these on them at all times) He had so much fun going around shocking everyone. Check out the bottom right picture… yes that is his brand new wife’sĀ father that he has just electrocuted!!
1. Arrive at your destination a hand full of days in advance to ensure everything is set.
2. Don’t let the stress get to you, and remember everyone is there for you. It’s your day, no one else’s.
3. Don’t sweat the small stuff.
4. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. People are glad to lend a helping hand.
5. Share as many tips and tricks with guests in advance so they’re well prepared for their wedding adventure