Their Story
I occasionally help out in an art gallery on the weekends in Bloomington, IL. Marlene, the women who works there was always keen on setting me up with someone. In walks Andrew and his dad one day when I’m not working. Marlene shares some details about Andrew, that he’s handsome, originally from Michigan and works at Illinois State University. I was interested so I did a little detective work and sent him an email asking him out for a drink at the local Irish Pub here in town. Lucky for me, he responded and we’ve been together ever since! 
The Proposal
Since my family has a summer place in Petoskey and his family has one in Traverse City, Northern Michigan has always held a special place in our hearts. After Christmas, we went on a ski trip to Boyne Mountain and then walked by Stafford’s Perry Hotel around midnight, in the snow, where he proposed. He always knew how much that hotel was a backdrop to my summer, so that made it all the more special. We sat on the beautiful porch in the quiet snow until 2 in the morning and danced in the Rose Garden where we knew we would have our ceremony. 
Why They Chose To Marry In Northern Michigan
As I mentioned before, Northern Michigan has always been close to our hearts. The beautiful weather, the scenery, the food, the people. There is always something going on, and if you want, there can be nothing going on because it’s a great place to relax and leisurely spend your time. Whether you’re looking for Petoskey stones on the beach, or sharing a bottle of wine at a local restaurant, Northern Michigan is an ideal destination spot for couples and families.
Wedding Details
- We set out a Polaroid camera and props to let people use Little Traverse Bay as the background.
- We had a guestbook oar that we had people sign with well wishes, that’s hanging in our living room now.
- We used smooth stones from the Northern Michigan area for our escort cards.
- We gave out welcome bags with Petoskey postcards, local brew, pamphlets about the area, homemade lavender eye pillows, Michigan cherry cookies made by the groom’s mom, Michigan potato chips and a mixed CD.
- Instead of a unity candle or sand, we stuck with a nautical theme and tied a “Chord of Three Strands,” with one representing the bride, another the groom and the third God.
- We were so happy with our venue decision and all the help Debbie and Evan from the Sales Office offered us every step of the way! They were incredibly attentive and made our day easy!
Wedding Ingredients
Ceremony & Reception Location: Stafford’s Perry Hotel – Rose Garden Veranda
Photographer: Stephanie N. Baker
Flowers & Centerpieces: Bloom
Dress: No clue! Off the rack and less than $600!
Cake: Sugar Bean
Color Scheme: Blushes and Vintage Ivory
DJ: DJ Mikey from Traverse City
– Submitted by Rachel 
Stafford's Wedding Blog 