Some wedding days stay with you because of the beauty. Others stay with you because of the people.
Casey and Cecelia’s Old Mission Peninsula wedding was both, and it’s a day I’ll always hold close.

From their heartfelt Catholic ceremony at St. Joseph Catholic Church to their vineyard reception at The Ridge at Verterra, every part of the day felt thoughtful, emotional, and deeply personal. As an Old Mission Peninsula wedding photographer, these are the days that remind me why I love what I do.

An Old Mission Peninsula Wedding Day That Felt Like Family

Before we ever met in person, Casey and Cecelia and I connected over FaceTime while they were still living in Louisiana. We didn’t get the chance to do an engagement session, which I normally love, but sometimes life and distance have other plans. Even through a screen, I knew right away we were a great fit. They were kind, easy to talk to, and clearly surrounded by people who loved them deeply.

When I finally met them on their wedding day, that first impression was instantly confirmed. From the moment I arrived, everyone welcomed me in so warmly. Cecelia’s mom, her friends, and Casey’s friends all made me feel like I truly belonged — not in a forced way, but in that genuine, easy way where conversations flow and you forget you’re technically “working.”

It was one of those days where you walk in and immediately know it’s going to be good.

Thoughtful Wedding Details While Getting Ready

Cecelia had all of her details ready when I arrived, and she even included extra bridal pieces specifically for me to photograph. That alone said so much about her thoughtfulness.

Her dress felt timeless and elegant, and later in the evening she added the sweetest bow to her hair for the reception — a small detail that I absolutely loved. One of the most meaningful details of the entire day was her veil. It was the same veil her mom wore on her own wedding day, and seeing that piece passed down was incredibly special.

Cecelia also shared a first look with her dad that was full of emotion. There were lots of tears — the good kind. These are the moments that matter so deeply, and I never take them lightly.

A Catholic Wedding Ceremony at St. Joseph Catholic Church on Old Mission Peninsula

Their ceremony took place at St. Joseph Catholic Church on Old Mission Peninsula, which is truly one of my favorite Catholic churches to photograph.

As far as Catholic ceremonies go, this church checks every box for photographers. It’s bright, clean, and incredibly beautiful. Even better, it’s surrounded by vineyards, so stepping outside after the ceremony feels like you’re instantly immersed in classic Old Mission Peninsula scenery.

Inside, family and friends filled the pews. The ceremony felt emotional, reverent, and deeply meaningful. Photographing quiet moments during the vows, parents’ reactions, and the sense of togetherness in the room was such a joy.

Wedding Portraits Around Old Mission Peninsula

After the ceremony, we took portraits right outside the church. With vineyard views and open green space, it was the perfect setting for classic, timeless wedding photos.

From there, we headed to Mission Point Lighthouse for couples portraits. That part of the day felt relaxed and natural, and it gave us such beautiful variety in their gallery. We also stopped at one of the overlooks on the peninsula, which offered sweeping views and even more opportunities for meaningful, scenic portraits.

Casey and Cecelia trusted the process completely, and that trust made everything feel effortless.

A Vineyard Wedding Reception at The Ridge at Verterra

Their reception took place at The Ridge at Verterra, and from a photographer’s perspective, it was a dream.

The Ridge at Verterra is also featured in my guide to Luxury Northern Michigan Wedding Venues, where I share the most scenic and elevated venues across the region for couples who value views, experience, and thoughtful design.

This vineyard venue offers stunning views, a gorgeous white tent, and endless opportunities for beautiful photos. Candlelight and fall florals filled the space, creating a warm, romantic atmosphere as the sun began to set over the vineyard.

The celebration itself was incredible. The energy in the room felt joyful and emotional, and everyone showed up fully to celebrate Casey and Cecelia. By the end of the night, it honestly felt like I was leaving a friend’s wedding — which still amazes me considering we had only met in person that day.

A Personal Ending to an Unforgettable Day

As a little personal note, I left their wedding and came home to a surprise. My husband had brought home a new puppy while I was away. He’s a Boston Terrier–Pug mix named Boston, and it felt like the perfect ending to an already unforgettable day.

Later on, Casey and Cecelia trusted me to design their wedding album, which meant so much to me. Getting to tell their story in a tangible way felt incredibly meaningful.

This wedding was such a reminder of how powerful it is when couples invite their photographer in fully — not just to take photos, but to truly be part of the day.

If you’re planning an Old Mission Peninsula wedding and want photos that feel honest, emotional, and true to you, I’d love to document it for you.

Vendor Team Behind This Old Mission Peninsula Wedding

From the moment Cecelia stepped into her dress paired with her mother’s veil, every detail of the day felt intentional and deeply personal. Florals by Kennedy’s Floral set the tone with rich fall color, and St. Joseph Catholic Church on Old Mission Peninsula provided a timeless ceremony backdrop surrounded by vineyards just beginning to turn for fall.

The celebration continued at The Ridge at Verterra, where candlelight, vineyard views, and a warm fall palette created an atmosphere that felt elevated yet welcoming. Guests enjoyed dinner by Urban Roots Catering, danced with Sugar Sand Sound, and ended the night with cake from Third Coast Bakery.

Cecelia and Casey’s vision came together beautifully thanks to a team of vendors who truly cared about every detail.

Planning an Old Mission Peninsula Wedding?

If you’d love to see another Northern Michigan wedding I’ve photographed, you can explore Delaney & AJ’s Bayview wedding at Gallagher Farms next.

And if you’re planning your own Old Mission Peninsula wedding and want an Old Mission Peninsula wedding photographer who cares deeply about the experience, the people involved, and every meaningful detail, I’d love to connect with you.