I had a particular weakness for Catie and Darnell. I have a special weakness for any couple that has dated for over a decade. That’s just the way it is, I’m sorry. But, it’s because I can understand. Eric and I dated for eleven years before we were married. And we’ve officially known each other for 14 years now, which also happens to be half of my life. Wow. But my point is that their story is the closest I can relate to our story so I was especially excited to see their day unfold and to have the unique honor of capturing their emotions and personalities as it did. And when I looked around and saw photographs of Catie and Darnell from their younger years, I remembered what it felt like to marry my high school sweetheart. And it made me particularly excited for them. And for all that is to come in their lives. Congratulations you guys!
Catie and Darnell opted to have a first look in the rose garden at Frances Park in Lansing before their wedding ceremony which turned out to be absolutely gorgeous in the middle of autumn. They were surrounded by fragrant blooms, colorful leaves, and even some falling leaves which added to the magic. 
After spending some time at the park for portraits, we headed to the Michigan Princess Riverboat for their ceremony and reception which was an amazing centerpiece to their theme of travel for the day.
Catie and Darnell: It was SUCH an honor to work with you both and be a small part of your wedding day. I’m so happy for you both and so thrilled that your story has such a happy ending. I hope the next dozen years are even better than the first and I hope you will be able to remember how you both felt on that beautiful day when you look at your photographs even after that. Thank you for being so open to my ideas and so easygoing. All the best to you both for all the rest of your lives!
xo,
nicole
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