It’s unreal to think that even though Kelly and Zach’s wedding day at The Millhaven was in the summer of 2025, my connection to their story actually began back in 2019. And the craziest part? Kelly and Zach didn’t even meet until 2023. I first met Kelly when she stood by a friend’s side as a bridesmaid at a wedding I photographed six years ago. Fast forward to last winter—she reached out about her own wedding day. She booked me that very same day, no phone call needed. She simply remembered, trusted, and chose me. And that kind of trust? It means the absolute world to me.

Kelly and Zach are the definition of “when you know, you know.” Their love is effortless, grounded, and full of joy. They’re each other’s missing puzzle piece, completed by each other and their sweet pup, Benny. Their day was filled with intentional details and emotional moments. The kind that make your throat catch and your heart swell. This blog is just a glimpse into a celebration that was so full of meaning, and I hope the photographs speak louder than any words ever could.

Details, Getting Ready, First Looks, & Portraits at The Millhaven

Kelly and Zach chose to get ready separately, surrounded by their closest friends and family. The morning was filled with laughter and anticipation. Zach and his groomsmen suited up in sharp black tuxes while Kelly and her bridesmaids shared sweet moments in matching pajamas before slipping into her elegant gown. She also shared a quiet, emotional moment with her mom as she helped with the finishing touches in the She Shed.

The Millhaven was the perfect backdrop for the first looks. Kelly surprised her bridesmaids, then shared a heartfelt moment with her dad before meeting Zach in The Greenhouse. With its black-and-white checkered floor, hanging ferns, and dreamy natural light, The Greenhouse added such a timeless, cinematic feel to the day. This space is truly a gem—and one I’d love to photograph again!

Afterward, Kelly and Zach stepped outside for portraits that felt just as meaningful. Their sweet pup, Benny, happily joined in alongside them before they gathered with their bridal party for group portraits. Surrounded by lush greenery and the charm of The Millhaven’s gardens, these moments perfectly balanced joyful energy with heartfelt emotion.

Outdoor Garden Wedding Ceremony at The Millhaven

The outdoor garden ceremony at The Millhaven felt like something out of a dream. Rows of wooden chairs lined the path to a floral-covered arbor, where Kelly and Zach exchanged vows surrounded by blooming greenery and their closest people. Benny even made an appearance, adding such a personal and heartfelt touch to the day. With golden light pouring into the garden and the laughter of family and friends all around, it was the perfect setting for a summer wedding.

Cocktail Hour in The Greenhouse & Pickle Factory Wedding Reception at The Millhaven

Cocktail hour took place in The Millhaven’s Greenhouse, which felt like the dreamiest garden café. Guests sipped drinks surrounded by checkerboard floors, lush hanging ferns, and cozy café-style tables—a relaxed way to transition into the evening before the party really began.

The reception inside the Pickle Factory at The Millhaven was the perfect mix of industrial character and timeless details. The brick walls and high ceilings gave the space so much charm. What made it truly special, though, were the couple’s personal touches. Modern Day Events and Floral filled the tables with lush white blooms and greenery that instantly softened the industrial space. Patterned linens, vintage glassware, and soft lamp lighting added a cozy elegance. Gold-framed table numbers and glowing taper candles pulled it all together, while the wooden chairs kept the look grounded. The result was a reception that felt elevated yet effortless.

One of my favorite parts of the day was how much Kelly and Zach trusted me to do what I do best. Because they weren’t worried about the photos, they were able to fully live in the moment while I documented the details exactly as they envisioned. The film images of their late-night tablescapes and décor are some of my favorites. They captured the textures, colors, and atmosphere in such a nostalgic, intentional way.

And once dinner was over, the party took off. Between the heart-shaped sunglasses, packed dance floor, and nonstop laughter, the reception turned into exactly what every couple hopes for. It was an evening full of celebration, connection, and so much joy.

Planning a Michigan Wedding? Let’s Connect

It’s easy to see why The Millhaven is such a dream venue. It blends charm and character into every wedding day. With a lush greenhouse, an industrial-yet-elegant reception space, and the option to host cozy winter weddings, it’s a perfect choice for couples who value style, intention, and celebrating with the people they love most.

If you’re planning your own wedding at The Millhaven and want a photographer to document it in a way that feels genuine, I’d love to be part of your day. My approach is rooted in trust. I want my couples to feel free to live in the moment, knowing I’ll capture the details, emotions, and energy as it unfolds.

You can learn more about me here. If my work speaks to you, I’d love for you to inquire with me here. In the meantime, feel free to check out more real Michigan wedding days on the blog for inspiration.

Sweet Words From Kelly & Zach:

“There are so many things I could say about Cynthia—her eye for beautiful moments, her creativity, her talent—but what I really want to say is this: Cynthia was the one person I never had to stress about on our wedding day.

I have followed Cynthia’s work for many years and knew she would be the perfect fit for our big day once it came to deciding on photographers. From the very first phone call, she was such a comforting presence. As a “Type A” bride, I knew trusting vendors to bring our vision to life would be tough, but Cynthia asked all of the right questions, sent timelines and made sure there was nothing for me to worry about. I never had to chase her for answers or wonder what the next step was. She was professional but also incredibly warm—someone I genuinely enjoyed working with!

On the day of our wedding, Cynthia showed up early, camera in hand, calm, collected, and completely in sync with everything happening around us. She somehow managed to be everywhere without ever being in the way. She caught the quiet in-between moments, the belly laughs, the teary smiles—things I didn’t even see!

And it gets even better! The photos? They’re everything. They’re us. They’re better than I even hoped. We have so loved re-living this day over and over again through Cynthia’s work.

Cynthia was the absolute best and we would absolutely recommend her to anyone looking!”

Cynthia Mae Photo | Michigan Wedding Photographer

Vendors:

Photography: @cynthiamaephoto
Florals: @moderndaycollective
Video/DJ: 27 Entertainment
Cake: MStreet Bakery
HAMU: The Pretty Committee (Jen, Anna, Izzy)
Dress: Becker’s Bridal
Bridesmaids: Revelry