Their Vision and Planning Process
When Sean and Arianna first reached out to Emily, they knew exactly what they wanted. “They wanted a location that reflected who they are, with water access, canoes, and that classic camp vibe.” Emily says.
What mattered most to them? Having their children and family there to share the experience. That made finding the right spot even more important.
Emily doesn’t just show up with a camera on the big day, she’s involved from the start. “My services go way beyond photographing. I help couples prioritize and sharpen their vision.”She put together a personalized document full of location ideas, and one immediately jumped out: Pinecrest Northwoods. “I had a feeling they’d choose it,” Emily admits. “It checked every single box.”
The on-site lodging was a game-changer too. Since they were planning a morning-heavy timeline, having everyone stay right there meant no rushing around at dawn—just rolling out of bed and into their adventure.
“Working with Sean and Arianna was a breeze,” Emily shares. “They were so easy to collaborate with, and they were really pleased with how everything came together.”
From there, Emily became their planning partner—coordinating lodging, mapping out the timeline, and connecting them with the right vendors to bring their day to life.
Wondering where to start your elopement planning journey? Check out our elopement resources for more inspiration!
The Beginning of Their Adventure
Sean and Arianna’s day started before the sun was even up. Emily arrived pre-dawn as they were finishing getting ready in their cabins, the anticipation building with each quiet moment.
Their first look wasn’t formal or staged, instead, it was beautifully simple. They walked down to meet each other at the lake’s edge as the sun began to rise, nothing planned out, just a natural moment between them. “I loved that,” Emily says. “It was just them, casually walking to the lake as the sun came up, meeting down at the canoes to start their day together.”
The air was cool and sharp, the lake blanketed in mist, and everything around them was perfectly still. Together, they pushed off, paddles slicing quietly through the glassy surface. Their laughter echoed softly as they glided through the fog, just the two of them, wrapped in their own little world. It was the kind of moment where time disappears.
“Watching Sean and Arianna paddle around as the sun came up over that foggy lake was incredible,” Emily remembers. “It was so quiet and peaceful. We were so grateful for nice conditions and to have the opportunity to do that kind of activity without ANYONE ELSE around. A truly private experience and exclusive to Pinecrest Northwoods.”
After their sunrise paddle, they spent the morning exploring the property. They wandered trails, climbed over fallen logs, and followed the shoreline, each spot revealing another beautiful corner of the Upper Peninsula. Between all of it, Emily captured their smiles, their quiet moments, and all those little glances that said everything.
