Rachel and Peter’s wedding day at Leona Road in Grand Rapids was one filled with joy, sunshine, and the perfect mix of elegance and fun. From start to finish, their celebration truly reflected who they are as a couple — timeless, joyful, and full of love.
Getting Ready at Leona Road and the Couple’s Home
The guys started their morning at the couple’s house while the girls gathered in the airy bridal suite at Leona Road. I began the day with details — the dress, invitations, jewelry — before moving into the excitement of the girls getting ready. The laughter, anticipation, and little happy tears set the tone for the rest of the day.
A Sweet First Look and Pre-Ceremony Photos
Rachel and Peter shared a first look before their ceremony, which gave them a quiet moment together before the day unfolded. It also meant we were able to capture most of their portraits, bridal party photos, and family formals ahead of time — leaving more space later to be fully present with their guests.
Why Couples Love Leona Road Weddings
One of the reasons Leona Road is such a special Grand Rapids wedding venue is its versatility. With gorgeous natural light, an industrial-yet-elegant design, and plenty of space for both large and intimate gatherings, it’s a dream to photograph. Rachel and Peter’s wedding highlighted how beautifully the venue transitions from daytime celebrations to evening receptions.
Ceremony and Trolley Ride to Downtown Grand Rapids
After the ceremony, we captured extended family photos before hopping on a trolley with the bridal party. The couple chose the Blue Bridge in downtown Grand Rapids for portraits because it’s near the spot where Peter proposed. This made the photos even more meaningful.
Reception at Leona Road: Cocktails, Cake & Dancing
Back at Leona Road, cocktail hour buzzed with excitement as guests mingled. The evening flowed into cake cutting, heartfelt speeches, and plenty of dancing. Before sunset, we slipped outside for golden-hour portraits — one of my favorite parts of the day — and then returned to the reception where the celebration carried late into the night.
Sunset Portraits at Leona Road
The light outside Leona Road is incredible at sunset, and Rachel and Peter took full advantage. A few quiet moments together in the glow of the evening made for some of the most stunning images of the day.
Check Out Rachel & Peter’s Engagement Session
Rachel and Peter’s story began long before this day. If you’d like to see more of their love story, you can view their Grand Haven engagement session here: Grand Haven Engagement Photographer – Rachel & Peter
Grand Rapids Wedding Vendors Who Made the Day Possible
Venue: @leona_road — Grand Rapids, MI
Dress: @bridalelegancegr — Grand Rapids, MI
Groom’s Attire: @suitshopofficial — Chicago, IL
Hair: @aleshiarosehair — Grand Rapids, MI
Makeup Artist: @knockout.agency — Grand Rapids, MI
Stationery Printing: @brandimpactgr — Grand Rapids, MI
Florist: @the.petal.company — Grand Rapids, MI
Videography: @ivorylacephotoandfilm — Indiana
Lead Photographer: @karahanesphotography — Grand Rapids, MI
Rentals: @fringe.events — Grand Rapids, MI
Bartending: @drinkourpunch — Grand Rapids, MI
Catering: @gilmoreeats — Grand Rapids, MI
Chalk Art: @laurentaylorhld — Grand Rapids, MI
Dessert: @furniturecitycreamery — Grand Rapids, MI
DJ: @wiser_productions — Grand Rapids, MI
Cake: @nantucketbakingco — Grand Rapids, MI
If you or someone you know is getting married in Grand Rapids and still searching for the right wedding photographer, I’d love to connect with you. You can reach out through my contact page here
