On December 7th, 2024, I had the honor of photographing Abby and Josh’s heartfelt vow renewal in Iron Mountain, Michigan—a day that beautifully blended emotion, adventure, and just a touch of winter chaos.
The scene was nothing short of a winter wonderland. A fresh blanket of snow covered the ground, and the wind swept through Iron Mountain. But the cold and wind didn't stop Abby and Josh. Bundled up in love and surrounded by friends and family, they stood together once again to reaffirm their vows—this time, with everyone they hold dear watching on.
Abby and her closest friends and family got ready at Natalie's salon, BLUSH, in Iron Mountain, MI. The center of attention was Abby and Josh's sweet, adorable 9 month old daughter, Layla.
Their story began a year or so before when they eloped in Japan, where Josh was stationed. They had planned to keep their elopement a surprise, revealing the exciting news during their vow renewal in Iron Mountain. But like all great secrets, word eventually got out—and their loved ones were all the more excited to celebrate with them on this special day.
Abby wanted photos of Layla in her wedding gown, so we did just that! What a beautiful keepsake to have for years to come. Maybe one day Miss Layla will wear her mother's wedding gown at her own wedding!
The ceremony took place at Evangelical Covenant Church in Norway, MI. The sanctuary was filled with warmth and emotion as Abby and Josh exchanged vows for the second time, this time surrounded by a full room of smiling, tearful faces. It was short, sweet, and deeply meaningful.
Following the ceremony, we stepped outside for some family photos and snowy portraits. Despite the biting cold, the joy was palpable—and the snow added a soft, cinematic touch to every frame.
Then came the adventure.
Abby and Josh, along with their wedding party, boarded a party bus and headed to one of the Iron Mountain area’s most unique locations—Millie Hill. Perched high above the town, Millie Hill offers panoramic views of Iron Mountain and is known for its peaceful overlook and (for those who know) its proximity to a bat hibernaculum—a hidden gem that adds charm to any photo session.
We arrived and began capturing some stunning wedding party portraits as the cold wind picked up. While we were out photographing, the bus drove down the road to turn around—and that’s when things got interesting. Icy conditions caused the bus to get stuck. For over an hour.
Thankfully, in true Midwest fashion, we made the best of it. I had about nine bridesmaids packed into my van to keep warm, and the videographer's van served as a second safe haven. Spirits stayed high thanks to Abby and Josh’s fun-loving group—and even through the delay, there was laughter, music, and hot air from car heaters to keep everyone going.
Here’s where meticulous planning paid off: we still made it to the reception on time. Thanks to Abby’s thoughtful timeline coordination (crafted closely with me), we didn’t miss a beat.
As they entered their reception, any stress from earlier melted away. Abby and Josh were greeted with cheers, smiles, and open arms. Abby and Josh did something untraditional, as their wedding party entered the reception. They had their MC roast the living crap out of each person in the wedding party. And it was a surprise for everyone, including the wedding party! The rest of the night was nothing short of magical—dancing, heartfelt toasts, and a deep sense of love and celebration filled the room. It was the perfect ending to a day that was equal parts romantic, real, and unforgettable.
From a snowy church ceremony to a stuck bus on Millie Hill, Abby and Josh’s vow renewal was a true reflection of what marriage is all about—love, patience, laughter, and rolling with whatever life (or winter) throws your way.
Venue - Ever After Event Center
Hair - Natalie Smart at BLUSH
Makeup - Karsyn King at Nora Rose
Videographer - Salem productions
Music - Music On The Go
Decorations - Final Touches Designs
Sorry if you're offended by the last picture, but it's hilarious. Abby's father was quite the comedian! 🤪
