Julia & Peter were married at Rust Belt Market in downtown Ferndale. I always love getting a chance to head back to my home state of Michigan for weddings. I’m always a bit nervous about winter weddings, but thankfully we had a nice January afternoon. Rust Belt Market is a truly unique venue and I’m a little jealous that we don’t have anything like it here in Chicago. It’s a great space with a plenty of of interesting backgrounds and textures for portraits. How about that red couch!

I started the morning with Julia and Peter both getting ready together at the same house. It was certainly cozy with all their friends, but I loved it. Heather arrived shortly after and helped photograph the morning preparations.

Once Julia and Peter were ready, we brought them to the front yard for a first look. One of my favorite moments from the day was their friends peering out the window trying to get a peek. We shot a few portraits with their friends and their pup, Reggie. From there we made our way downtown and found some great backgrounds in a few blocks before the ceremony.

Laura did a fantastic job officiating the ceremony. I always love when friends officiate because they can share personal stories and anecdotes.

During dinner we heard from many friends for toasts and Julia & Peter’s choreographed first dance had their guests standing in ovation. The night finished with a great dance party thanks to Josh at Cinderella’s.

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