A Wedding on Lake Michigan

Lake Bluff Preserve in Frankfort, MI

Ellie and Jake’s wedding on Lake Michigan sparkled with joy—and, of course, a few disco balls. From the moment I arrived as their florist, I was captivated by the breathtaking bluffs, the sweeping natural landscapes, and the gentle transition from summer’s warmth to autumn’s crisp embrace. The colors of the season were beginning to reveal themselves in the foliage, creating a rich, warm palette that perfectly echoed the couple’s vibrant personalities.

When the morning sun peeked through the clouds over Lake Bluff Preserve, it cast a soft, golden light across the water and the trees, illuminating the scene in a way that felt almost enchanted. I knew then that this day would be nothing short of magical—a celebration that was radiant, heartfelt, and as uniquely memorable as the love Ellie and Jake share. Every detail, from the shimmering reflections on the lake to the playful sparkle of disco balls, promised a day that their family and friends would remember forever.

A Wedding on Lake Michigan - Iconic Bluffs

Ellie and Jake’s ceremony took place atop the breathtaking bluffs of Frankfort, overlooking the crystal-clear waters of Lake Michigan. Autumn breezes off the bay hinted at the chill of fall, yet the sun held steady, casting a warm glow over the day.

When designing their flowers, I wanted to honor both the shifting beauty of the season and the breathtaking natural surroundings of their venue. The subtle transition from summer to autumn inspired a palette that felt warm, rich, and full of depth. Ellie brought a playful and personal touch by suggesting a pop of blue to tie in with their Cowboy Disco–themed wedding. We paired that unexpected splash of color with the classic tones of fall—deep, earthy browns, fiery oranges, bold reds, and golden yellows—to create arrangements that were simultaneously seasonal, vibrant, and full of personality.

Each bloom was carefully chosen for its color, texture, and movement that added depth to the arrangements. The juxtaposition of autumnal warmth with the cool, electric blue brought a sense of surprise and fun, perfectly reflecting Ellie and Jake’s style. The result was a floral palette that felt alive, unexpected, and entirely their own—playful yet sophisticated, whimsical yet grounded in the natural beauty of their surroundings.

For the ceremony, we created two grand urn arrangements to frame Ellie and Jake as they exchanged their vows, each one overflowing with blooms that echoed the richness of the season. The urns served as elegant anchors, drawing the eye while complementing the natural drama of the bluffs and the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan. Along the aisle, we placed lush, garden-inspired pieces that felt effortlessly organic, guiding guests through a corridor of color, texture, and fragrance.

We provided individual cones of dried lavender for guests to toss as the bride and groom made their grand exit. Lavender symbolizes devotion, loyalty, and love—perfect for a day celebrating their union. I always encourage couples to include an aromatic element in their wedding design, because scent is one of the most powerful ways to unlock memories. For Ellie and Jake—and their guests—may the fragrance of lavender forever bring them back to this joyful, unforgettable day.

Falling Leaves, Disco Heat

For the reception, we created a sense of magic by delicately suspending greenery from the ceiling, allowing it to cascade above the space and frame the sparkling disco balls on the dance floor. The combination of lush botanicals and twinkling lights created an unforgettable “wow” moment, perfectly capturing the playful, celebratory energy of Ellie and Jake’s theme while still feeling elegant and natural.

For the tabletops, we repurposed several of the ceremony aisle arrangements, giving them new life and a fresh perspective. These were complemented by simple bud vases, natural beeswax taper candles, and touches of pinecones and moss, infusing the tables with a warm, earthy ambiance. The mix of textures—from soft greenery to the rustic natural elements—helped tie the entire reception together, reflecting both the beauty of the season and the couple’s unique personalities. Every detail was designed to feel intentional, inviting guests to linger, soak in the atmosphere, and dance the night away surrounded by nature-inspired elegance.

Vendor Team

Venue: @lakebluffpreserve

Florist: @pachamamafloral

Catering: @mamalustacoshop

DJ: @mamajoojoo

Photography: @emmamelinstudios

Fiddle: @laurelpremo 

Saxophone: @jeffrey.tsax

Videographer: @_nicholasmcintosh

Day-of coordinators: @eventsbytimelessties

Bartending: @tonicandlimemi 

Coffee cart: @cliquecoffeecatering

Dessert: @pottersbakery1929

Tequila/Mezcal: @madremezcal

Rentals: @specialoccasionsmi & @timelesseventrental

Hair: @hairbykamryn