As you may expect, summers are our busy-season when it comes to Northern Michigan wedding photography. The gorgeous lake. The breathtaking natural scenery. Our quaint, little towns with drawbridges, sailboats and fudge shops on every corner. People come from all around to see Northern Michigan in July. But, there are few visitors brave enough to face our Northern Michigan winters. So, when I got a call last year to book an outdoor wedding at the end of January, needless to say, my calendar was pretty clear.

Stephanie and Tim planned a GORGEOUS winter wedding at Castle Farms in Charlevoix, MI. I was lucky enough to also shoot their engagement session. The fact that they’re both Spartan grads was apparent in their engagement shoot—and then on into their wedding details.

We started the day off at the drawbridge in downtown Charlevoix for the couple’s first look before the ceremony and festivities started. Let me say, winter wedding photography can be a bit tricky. Northern Michigan winters tend to hit the subzero temperatures, and no matter how high quality your equipment, it’s just simply not built to function for long hours in those kinds of temperatures.

Step 1: Forget how you professional you look—put on the thicky, furry boots.

Step 2: Rotate out your camera bodies to keep them from freezing.

Step 3: Long underwear. Lots of long underwear. And SO many hand warmers.

Back to Tim and Stephanie! The first look was such a cute moment between the couple. I love when couples take the time to do this. It’s such a personal, intimate moment, and this couple was no exception (as you can see from Tim’s priceless expression).

Castle Farms proved to be a beautiful backdrop for a winter wedding. It was almost eerie to see the fountains and famous castle stone work covered in snow, but between the Cedars on the grounds and the still visible structure, it was truly gorgeous.

And, of course, our couple was beautiful. Thanks for letting Tatum Photo and Design share in your day, Tim and Stephanie! Not only were you fantastic people to work with, but you had a truly unique wedding I couldn’t help but share.