Tessa & Derek of Grand Blanc were married at the Peace Garden, located at Marquette Park, part of Mackinac State Historic Park on a beautiful summer day.   Surrounded by the greenery of this beautiful garden, an intimate setting was created, as the family joined them for this special ceremony which was performed by local minister Minister Marie Hulett.

Derek and Tessa planned several months in advance..leaving behind anything unnecessary details, so they could stay focused on their main objective - getting married!

Photographing their first look was the initial order of the day.   Since their hotel Lake View Hotel was located just across from the waterfront  Windermere Point, photographer Christi Dupre suggested it as the perfect location for the soon to be married to have that private moment together.

Watching Tessa made her way to the beach was captivating, walking among the horses and the open air park Tessa, a stunning bride in her beautiful bridal gown.  Derek was looking very handsome and dressed in a sharp grey suit.  Both had forgotten to pick up their flowers beforehand, but having both hands available for this event wasn't such a bad thing! 

Derek as a fan of photos by the water and Tessa the gardens!  So this gave us a perfect opportunity to take a few more photos before heading to the ceremony. 

The family made the Lake View Hotel the headquarters for their family gathering so after greeting one another and receiving their beautiful flower bouquets. Tessa and Derek received the beautiful flowers and the group headed off for the 1/2 mile walk to Peace Garden. 

The ceremony was simply lovely and afterwards, the photos of family revolved around making sure we could get little Alex to smile which he did!

Above the Peace Garden is the East Bluff and wooded paths that lead to the Somewear in Time Gazebo.  With an adventurous spirit and flat shoes, Tessa said 'Yes" to the idea of walking up to the East Bluff.  From there we were able to get some beautiful photos. 

Barefoot and happy, the two walked down the many steps to the Park and their son and on to their happily ever after!  A perfect day on Mackinac Island.