Alyson and Dan got married in Lakeport on July 3rd, and we loved being their Lake Huron wedding photography team for the holiday weekend. The two of them met at Great Lakes Italian Restaurant. Aly’s family owned it, and Mat was a cook. They hit it off easily and struck up a quick and fun friendship, and evolved into so much more over their restaurant shifts together. Mat isn’t from the area originally, but Aly grew up in Lakeport. The two of them always thought they’d move away together out of state, but when they found out they were expecting their daughter, they decided to plant some roots in Lakeport themselves, and wound up buying the home and property across the street from Aly’s mom’s house.

Planning their “backyard wedding” at their property was a natural fit for Aly and Mat. Their property is gorgeous; it has so many great massive pine trees, a pretty gazebo that they got married under, and so many great photo spots (not to mention her mom’s house on the lake, across the street.) Their wedding was the day before the 4th of July, so it was an intimate affair that was a perfect fit for their tents. Their mobile bar they hired was legitimately the cutest thing we’ve seen (loved the equestrian-themed name!) And, when two people meet in a restaurant and have that shared background, you can pretty much guarantee that the food is going to be amazing- and we weren’t disappointed. They had Greek food, and pastries from Betsy’s Bakes, and frozen custard from Jimmy’s. It was a quintessential backyard party- but with amazing wardrobe and next-level grub. Their daughter Hazel was adorable as flower-baby, and Mat’s daughter Jade did a wonderful job escorting her down the aisle. And their dog Bear stole the show (and our hearts) by laying at their feet while the couple exchanged vows. He was such a good boy and “ring-bear.”

If you’re planning a Lake Huron wedding, we’d love to talk and offer our insight, as locals! We hope you enjoy this small preview into Aly and Mat’s special day.