Once Upon a Time at Old Stonegate Farms | Michelle & Jason's Storybook Wedding

WeddingsBarn WeddingsWest Michigan Weddings

Sep 29

Some weddings feel like a party, and some feel like a fairytale. Michelle and Jason's Old Stonegate Farms wedding in Nunica, Michigan felt like both. On Friday, September 25, 2026, these two turned the page on a brand-new chapter, and the whole day read like a story straight out of one of Michelle's favorite books.

A Bride Who Loves a Good Story

Michelle is an avid reader, and her love for stories showed up in every detail of the day. Her gown hung in the bridal suite of the historic farmhouse beneath hand-painted gold script reading "Once Upon a Time…" It was the perfect opening line for the day ahead.

The details were beautiful and full of meaning. Pearl-covered heels matched a pearl-scattered cathedral veil. The rings rested in an ornate gold frame, and a matching wooden box was engraved "Love You Most 09.25.26." There were linen His and Her vow books, a monogrammed M&J ring dish, and a pin holding photo charms of loved ones so they could be close all day. Jason also gave Michelle a wooden keepsake shaped like a book, engraved with a letter about how the story he loves most is theirs. For a book lover, it doesn't get much sweeter.

Her sister and maid of honor buttoned her into her off-the-shoulder ball gown, and the two of them couldn't stop smiling. Michelle then settled in at a blush vintage vanity with a trifold mirror to add the final touches: pearl hair pins, sparkling drop earrings, and a delicate pearl bracelet. Her gown shimmered in every bit of window light. She was having her princess moment, and it was so fun to watch.

A Ceremony Among the Trees

The Old Stonegate Farms wedding ceremony took place in a wooded clearing, framed by a wooden arbor draped in soft greenery. Michelle and Jason held hands through their vows while Jason looked at her like no one else was there. Their people gathered close, and the whole moment felt so peaceful and so personal.

Golden Meadows and Fall Florals

One of my favorite parts of photographing at Old Stonegate Farms is the variety across the property. For portraits, we wandered to the meadow filled with tall weathered timber sculptures rising out of golden and rust-colored grasses. It is such a unique backdrop, and it matched their fall palette perfectly.

The wedding party looked stunning in mixed velvet and satin gowns in rust, copper, and burgundy, paired with navy suits and rust ties. Their bouquets were full of peach roses, white ranunculus, blue thistle, and eucalyptus. We also caught some quiet moments under a big maple, with Michelle's veil floating across the lawn, plus a sweet under-the-veil portrait. At golden hour, Michelle switched to a strapless look and Jason spun her through the meadow as the sun set behind them.

A Barn Full of Chandeliers and Laughter

The reception barn at Old Stonegate Farms is pure magic after dark. Crystal and gold chandeliers hang from the old timber beams, and sparkling drapery and bistro lights make the whole space glow. Their sweetheart table was set with gold candlesticks and a sage runner. A "Happily Ever After…" sign hung inside the barn, the perfect closing line to the "Once Upon a Time" that started the day.

Then came the plot twist. Michelle surprised Jason with Pop Scholars, a comedy troupe who interviewed the couple about everything from how they met to how they got engaged. Then they roasted them in front of every guest and acted out their love story live. Watching two grown men dramatically reenact Michelle and Jason's romance in the middle of the dance floor had the entire barn crying laughing. It was one of the most unique and hilarious reception moments I've ever photographed.

After that, the party was on. Foam light sticks came out, the flower girls took over the floor, and everyone slow danced together under the chandeliers. Michelle changed into a third look, a tea-length dress with sheer sleeves and sparkly pearl sneakers. The night wrapped up in front of a glowing "Better Together" neon sign surrounded by fall mums and whiskey barrels.

To the Newlyweds, Mr. and Mrs. LeBrasseur,

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for letting me be a part of your story. From the quiet morning in the bridal suite to a barn full of laughter and light sticks, your wedding truly felt like something out of a book, and I loved every chapter.

Michelle, you were an absolute princess, and I mean that in the best way. Every detail you chose told a story, from your pearl veil to your vow books, and it was so clear how much heart you poured into this day. Surprising Jason with Pop Scholars was pure genius. I don't think I've ever heard a barn laugh that hard.

Jason, the way you looked at Michelle during your vows said everything. And the letter you gave her, written for the girl who loves stories more than anyone, was one of the sweetest gifts I've ever seen a groom give. You two are proof that the best love stories are the ones you get to live.

Thank you for trusting me to capture the fairytale, the laughter, and everything in between. I hope every time you look through these photos, you fall right back into this day, just like falling into a favorite book.

Here's to your happily ever after, and to every chapter still to come.