Nick and Jylian’s Indigo Lavender Farm Wedding in Imlay City

I first met Nick and Jylian in August of 2021. We found an open Starbucks in the Barnes and Noble near Genesee Valley Mall, and sat down with a coffee.

They told me that the ceremony would be in Imlay City and that they wanted an Indigo Lavender Farm wedding. Nick’s family owned the farm, and they chose their date because it was right at the height of lavender season!

They wanted a ceremony that was fun, and sweet, and had a smidge of religion in it while still reflecting them, and their relationship.

I clicked with this couple immediately and crossed my fingers and toes that they felt the same way. Apparently, they did, because they hired me on the spot.

We met again for rehearsal. I’d never been to the Lavender Farm, but I knew where it was, so I was excited for the tour, which was graciously provided by the staff. All of my questions were answered with patience and a smile.

While exploring the ceremony site, I met April – the wedding coordinator that Nick and Jylian had hired to take the stresses of the day off of their shoulders.

We did the run thru, had some fun and shared some laughter, then parted ways.

On the day of the ceremony, I arrived early. Nick was a hot mess. He was literally hot and sweaty and a bundle of emotion and nerves and so excited to be getting married.

Next, I found the other vendors, Sammy taking photos and Brittany shooting video, and finally up to the ceremony site where DJ Kevin from Michaels Entertainment was waiting with my microphone.

Then it was time. I made an unplugged announcement, asking the guests to take a selfie of themselves and send it to the couple as a surprise for later. I nodded to Kevin and the music began.

Nick was first. He stood next to me and faced the lake behind the arch while we waited for Jylian to make her way up the path. When she was in place, I motioned for him to turn around and it was then that he saw his bride for the very first time.

Tears were shed.

Words were said.

A tree was planted for their future home using dirt from the houses they grew up in, and then they each read their own vows to each other.

Finally, I got to present them to their family and friends as Mr. and Mrs. Juip. There were more happy tears, shouts of joy, applause and many, many bubbles.

Photos by -  https://www.instagram.com/sammyt.photography