Blue Heron Barn Weddings in Kalamazoo, Michigan | Venue Spotlight

More Blue Heron Barn Weddings Through the Years

Blue Heron Barn - October, 2024 -

Blue Heron Barn - August, 2023 - Gorgeous Golden Hour, Dusty Rose Bridesmaids

Tara's bridesmaids surrounded her in the sweetest pastel rose gowns on the day she began her forever with Ryan. The weather was bright and sunny from beginning to end, matching the joyful mood of the celebration—and no one seemed happier for their humans than the adorable Dogs of Honor.

After their first kiss, the newlyweds were showered with floral confetti before slipping away for a few quiet moments together on the bridge. Later, we took advantage of Blue Heron Barn's new landscape rocks to create some dramatic bridal party portraits that lent some fun drama to the day.

While I photographed portraits, Zac (my husband and favorite second photographer) documented the reception space and one of the most memorable details of the evening: an eclectic collection of glassware that served as both the seating chart and guest favors.

Their first dance was every bit as romantic as the day itself, with DJ Guy Voss playing "So This Is Love." As the evening light softened, we escaped to the secret field where golden-hour light lasts forever! There, Ryan created a few true Prince Charming moments, sweeping Tara into his arms as the sun slowly set around them.

Blue Heron Barn - spring LGBTQ Wedding in Kalamazoo, michigan - May, 2023

I was so happy to return to Blue Heron Barn for Kirsten and LeAnn’s beautiful May wedding. The morning unfolded quietly and naturally as the brides prepared in separate suites on the property.

The ceremony took place beneath a cloudy spring sky, though the rain kindly held off through portraits and most of the reception. When Kirsten and LeAnn saw one another for the first time, there were such genuine emotions. It immediately set the tone for the rest of the celebration. Rather than incorporating a traditional unity candle or sand ceremony, the brides exchanged crystals and placed them into a keepsake succulent arrangement.

The bridal party wore satin gowns in soft pastel tones that complemented the lilac and lavender palette woven throughout the wedding design; and the entire evening had an understated sweetness, from the florals and reception decor to the relaxed, joyful energy of everyone present.

The reception featured an incredible taco bar where guests gathered for cake cutting, dances, and a lively evening celebration.

As the rain finally arrived later in the evening, it created the opportunity for one of my favorite portrait moments of the day beneath the "twinkle-light" tree. With a strobe (off-camera-flash) placed behind the couple, the raindrops caught the light and added sparkles around them, lighting up the twilight.

People often say rain on a wedding day is good luck. Whether or not that’s true, I personally have a soft spot for rainy weddings since it rained on my own wedding day nearly twenty years ago. I love seeing it as a blessing and creating magic from the opportunity.