I am so excited to share a recent wedding weekend that I had the honor of being a part of up at Walloon Lake Country Club and Winery. Carrie and Raz got married and to celebrate both of their families and cultures, Friday was spent in celebration at the Sangeet. For those of you who don't know what that is, here is a quick definition.

Sangeet: Among the many pre-wedding events that occur prior to the Hindu, Punjabi, and Gujurati wedding ceremonies, the Sangeet is where the party begins. The word Sangeet translates to ‘sung together’ from Sanskrit. ‘Gaun’, another word used to describe the event, means ‘songs’ or ‘to sing’ in Hindi. Traditionally celebrated in the Punjab regions of India, this ceremony has been adopted by many other regions as a form of celebration for the wedding to come.  Unlike religious ceremonies such as the Haldi or portions of the wedding ceremony, the Sangeet is solely conducted to relish in the happiness and joy surrounding the couple.

So basically, Friday was a big party with dancing, great food and fun. And beautiful outfits, did I mention that part? I was beyond excited to be able to photograph this and capture the beauty that Carrie was as a bride! Stay tuned for the traditional American wedding that took place the next day (coming soon!) For now, enjoy the vibrant colors and fun images below! 

When Maggie called me to talk about photographing her wedding to Zach I have to be honest that I didn't know too much about the couple. I am telling you that because most people in Kalamazoo know this couple-- of course it is no secret that Zach led the Western Michigan football team to an incredible victory the past year and became a bit of a hometown hero. More than that, people in our city know this couple because of the enormous ways they invest and give back to our community. They are genuinely kind and selfless, driven and magnets for joy. Their spirit for Christ is contagious and the more I got to know them, the more excited I was to be part of their beautiful day. --And beautiful is was! The sun was shining and we couldn't have asked for a more perfect day. Brooke and her team at Stellaluna Events perfected the details and ensured the day ran smoothly. As usual I have way too many images to share but after you see them you'll understand how I had such a hard time choosing favorites! A huge congrats to Mr. & Mrs. Terrell! It was such an honor to be part of your day and I am excited to see how you impact those around you in the years to come! 

Artists & Vendors: Photography: Ashley Slater Photography//Film Developed: The Find Lab//Planning/Coordination and Florals: Stellaluna Events/Cinematography: Colin Overhiser//Venue: Gull Lake Country Club//Wedding Cake: Cakabakery//Hair and Makeup: Blush Salon and Spa//DJ: Wiser Productions//Transportation: BW Charters

A few weeks ago Lauren and John were married at one of Lauren's favorite places-- her family cottage at Houghton Lake! Northern Michigan is so beautiful and Houghton Lake was no exception; we battled rain all day long even running in and out as showers passed overhead but no one let the dreary skies dampen their spirits. After a beautiful ceremony the couple danced the night away and it was such an honor to be a part of their day! Here are some of my favorites!