On a golden summer day, Ashton and Michael celebrated their wedding at Willow Winery in Suttons Bay, a truly dreamy location overlooking West Bay. With sweeping vineyard views, intimate spaces, and the soft glow of golden hour, their winery wedding felt like something out of a fairytale.
Getting Ready and First Looks
Ashton got ready surrounded by her closest people: her sister, her mom, Michael’s mom, and his daughters. It was such a sweet, joy-filled space, buzzing with laughter, stories, and excitement for the day ahead.
While the bride is getting ready, I always start with the details, capturing the rings, jewelry, shoes, and meaningful heirlooms before they’re whisked away and forgotten in the busyness. For Ashton, one detail that mattered most was the delicate bracelets she gifted to everyone who shared the morning with her. Watching her give those out to Michael’s daughters, her sister, her mom, and Michael’s mom was such a tender way to honor the people who hold her heart.
Once I finished photographing the details, I popped over to see Michael. Michael was calm but buzzing with emotion. You could feel the weight and joy of the day written all over his face!
Melting Hearts & A Day Rooted in Faith
One of the most unforgettable moments of the day came when Michael shared a first look with his daughters. The way their eyes lit up when they saw their dad was the sweetest thing, but was even more sweet was Michael’s tears when he saw his girls, it brought me to tears behind my camera. It was such a beautiful reflection of who Michael is as a father and how much he loves them both.
Ashton and Michael’s Christian faith is such an important part of who they are, and their ceremony beautifully reflected that. Family and friends gathered as they exchanged heartfelt, handwritten vows that spoke of devotion, faith, and partnership.
My Favorite Part – Portraits at Willow Winery in Suttons Bay
After the ceremony, guests enjoyed wine and appetizers while we snuck away for portraits. We started with the vines, capturing soft, romantic shots as the sun began to dip. Ashton and Michael were natural together, laughing, holding hands, and letting themselves just be in the moment. Their joy was contagious, and it made photographing them effortless.
Then came golden hour, and oh my goodness, it was dreamy. The sun flared perfectly behind them, wrapping them in warm, golden light that made everything glow. The girls from Lyons Media Productions captured video alongside me, and together we documented such timeless, heartfelt moments.
And just when I thought we were done, Michael suggested we head out to the road for a few last shots. It turned out to be the most perfect idea. The quiet, open road framed them so beautifully, and it felt symbolic… The start of a new journey together, side by side.
A Heartfelt Farewell
After saying my goodbyes, my heart was so full. What made this wedding unforgettable wasn’t just the stunning venue or dreamy golden hour, it was the way Ashton and Michael poured themselves into the people around them.
A wedding at Willow Winery is always special. The vineyard views, the intimate setting, the sunsets over the bay… but Ashton and Michael’s celebration will forever stand out. Their wedding was a true reflection of faith, family, and unshakable love.
Ashton and Michael, thank you for letting me be part of your story. Congratulations you two!
The Vendors
- Venue: Willow Winery
- Photography: Kristina Sobel Photography
- Videographer: Lyons Media Production
- Catering: UpTown Catering
- Dress: Blue House Bridal in Carmel, IN
- Suit: Suit Shop
- Rings: Engagement Ring: Sue Stevens at Indianapolis Jewelry, Wedding Band: Ring Concierge, Groom’s Band: Ridge
