Grand Haven, Michigan Fall Mini Sessions | Bethke Farms

Fall Family Photos in Grand Haven, MI | Fall Mini Sessions at Bethke Farms

There is something about fall in West Michigan that makes me want to grab my camera and photograph everything.

The changing leaves, cooler weather, cozy sweaters, golden light, and all of those little moments that make fall feel like fall. It is one of my favorite times of year for family photography, and this year I am doing something extra special.

I am offering fall mini sessions at my family’s farm, Bethke Farms, near Grand Haven, Michigan!

So if you have been searching for fall family photos in Grand Haven, MI, a Grand Haven family photographer, or fall mini sessions near Grand Haven, this is for you!

Fall Mini Sessions at Bethke Farms

Bethke Farms is my family’s farm, and I am so excited to be able to use it for fall family photography sessions.

There is something really special about getting to photograph families in a place that actually means something to me. We have fields, trees, open space, and plenty of room for kids to run around and be kids.

And that is exactly what I want these sessions to feel like.

I am not expecting your children to stand perfectly still, smile on command, and behave like tiny professional models for the entire session. Kids are going to be kids, and some of my favorite family photos are the ones where everyone is laughing, playing, snuggling, or doing something completely unplanned.

We will get some of those classic everyone-looking-at-the-camera photos too. But I also want to capture the little moments that actually feel like your family.

Why Book a Fall Mini Session?

Fall mini sessions are a great option if you want updated family pictures without committing to a full-length photography session.

They are especially perfect for:

Families with young kids
Updated family photos
Holiday cards
Christmas gifts for grandparents
Sibling photos
Couples who want a few updated pictures
Families who haven’t had professional photos taken in a while
Anyone who wants beautiful fall photos without spending an entire afternoon taking pictures

A mini session gives us enough time to create a variety of images while keeping things short and simple.

Because let’s be real, sometimes 20-ish minutes of family photos is plenty. 😂

Family Photography at a Family Farm

One of my favorite things about photographing families at Bethke Farms is that it does not feel like a typical photo location.

It is home.

I know the property, I know where the light is best, and I know all of the little spots that can give us different looks during a short session.

You also do not have to worry about a busy public park, people walking through the background, or trying to keep your kids contained in one tiny area.

There is room to move around, explore, and have fun.

That makes Bethke Farms a really fun location for Grand Haven family photography and fall family photos in West Michigan.

What Should We Wear for Fall Family Photos?

This is probably the question I get asked the most when it comes to family photos.

First, you do not have to match.

Please do not put everyone in the exact same shirt unless that is genuinely your thing. 😂

Instead, choose colors that look good together. Earth tones, creams, browns, rust, olive, mustard, burgundy, denim, and other warm fall colors all photograph beautifully.

Sweaters, boots, denim, corduroy, and layers are also perfect for fall family pictures.

The biggest thing is to wear something you are comfortable in. You should be able to sit down, move around, pick up your kids, and actually enjoy yourself.

If you are completely stuck on what everyone should wear, I am always happy to help!

What Are Family Photos With Me Like?

If you are already stressing about getting your kids ready for pictures, take a deep breath.

You do not need perfect children.

You do not need to know how to pose.

And you definitely do not need to spend the week before your session threatening your children with consequences if they do not smile. 😂

I will give you direction when you need it, but I want your family to actually interact with each other.

We might walk around, play with the kids, snuggle, tickle someone, make silly faces, or just hang out together.

I will give you prompts and things to do so you are not standing there wondering what to do with your hands. At the same time, I want to leave room for the genuine moments that happen naturally.

My goal is for your photos to look like your family, not like a bunch of people who were forced to stand in a field and smile at a camera.

Fall Family Photos Near Grand Haven, Michigan

If you are looking for a family photographer in Grand Haven, Michigan, I would love to photograph your family this fall.

Bethke Farms is located near Grand Haven and is an easy option for families in Grand Haven, Spring Lake, Holland, Muskegon, and throughout West Michigan.

Fall is one of the busiest seasons for family photography, especially for families wanting photos for holiday cards and gifts, so these mini sessions will have limited availability.

2026 Fall Mini Sessions at Bethke Farms

Location: Bethke Farms near Grand Haven, Michigan

Session: Fall family mini session

Season: Fall 2026

Perfect for: Families, kids, couples, siblings, and updated holiday photos

Booking: CLICK HERE

If you have been putting off getting updated family pictures, this is your sign to finally do it.

Come out to the farm, put on your favorite fall clothes, let the kids run around a little bit, and let me take care of the pictures.

I cannot wait to see you at Bethke Farms this fall!

Frequently Asked Questions About Grand Haven Fall Family Photos

When is the best time for fall family photos in Grand Haven?

October is typically a beautiful time for fall family photography in West Michigan because we can get those gorgeous changing leaves and fall colors. Michigan weather and fall foliage can be unpredictable, so the exact timing varies from year to year.

Where are the fall mini sessions located?

My 2026 fall mini sessions will take place at Bethke Farms near Grand Haven, Michigan. This is my family’s farm, and I am so excited to open it up for family photography sessions!

Are fall mini sessions good for families with young kids?

Absolutely! In fact, a shorter session can be perfect for younger kids. We will keep things moving and fun instead of expecting little ones to sit still and smile for a long period of time.

What should we wear for fall family photos?

Choose coordinating colors instead of matching outfits. Warm neutrals, earth tones, denim, sweaters, boots, and layers all look great for fall family pictures.

Do you photograph families outside of Grand Haven?

Yes! I photograph families throughout Grand Haven and West Michigan, including Spring Lake, Holland, Muskegon, and surrounding areas.

How do I book a fall mini session?

Fall mini sessions at Bethke Farms are limited. CLICK HERE to book your session or contact me with any questions at hello@rachelkayephoto.com

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Long Lake Outdoor Center Wedding | A relaxed lakeside wedding in West Michigan | Kathryn + Neil

Long Lake Outdoor Center Wedding | A Relaxed Lakeside Wedding in West Michigan

Long Lake Outdoor Center Weddings are so relaxed right by the lakeside in West Michigan. There’s something special about weddings that let nature do most of the decorating. This beautiful celebration at Long Lake Outdoor Center was full of heartfelt moments, gorgeous scenery, and the kind of laid back atmosphere that I just love being a part of. I recently got an inquiry for this venue, and while I didn’t end up booking it was inspired to finally blog and write about this gorgeous day.

As a West Michigan wedding photographer, I love venues that allow couples to slow down, enjoy their day, and spend time with their guests instead of rushing from one thing to the next. Long Lake Outdoor Center is one of those places.

About Long Lake Outdoor Center

Tucked away in West Michigan, Long Lake Outdoor Center offers couples a peaceful setting surrounded by towering trees, beautiful lake views, and plenty of open space. It feels like a hidden retreat where everyone can step away from the busyness of everyday life and simply enjoy being together.

One of my favorite things about photographing weddings here is the variety of locations available without ever having to leave the property. Whether you’re looking for waterfront portraits, wooded paths, open fields, or quiet corners for a few intimate moments together, there are endless opportunities for beautiful photographs throughout the day.

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels relaxed, natural, and full of genuine moments, this venue is definitely worth considering.

couple seeing each other for the first time and turning to look at each other

The Wedding Style

Everything about this wedding fit the venue perfectly. The couple chose timeless, elegant attire (complete with a dress designed and constructed by Kate!) that complemented the natural surroundings instead of competing with them. The bride looked absolutely stunning, and the groom’s classic style created a look that will never go out of fashion.

Outdoor weddings have a way of making everything feel effortless, and this day was no exception. Every detail blended beautifully with the scenery, creating photographs that feel both romantic and authentic.

wedding couple by the lake at long lake outdoor center closer up of couple at long lake wedding couple on the dock in the rain west michigan wedding couple cozy up cuddling on the dock in the rain at long lake outdoor center for a wedding long-lake-outdoor-center-wedding couple running through the woods in the rain at long lake outdoor center for a wedding couple exchanging private vows under awning at long lake outdoor center

A Beautiful Lakeside Ceremony

One of the biggest highlights of the day was the ceremony overlooking the lake. With family and friends gathered together, the couple exchanged vows surrounded by nature, laughter, and plenty of happy tears.

There is something incredibly peaceful about hearing birds instead of traffic and feeling a gentle breeze during a ceremony. It creates an atmosphere that simply can’t be replicated indoors.

Watching everyone celebrate these two as they officially became husband and wife was such a joy to capture.

long-lake-outdoor-center-wedding

Thoughtful Details

The floral arrangements added soft, romantic color while allowing the natural beauty of the venue to remain the focus. Every detail throughout the day felt intentional without feeling overdone.

One of my favorite things about weddings like this is how they prove you don’t need extravagant decorations when you’re surrounded by beautiful scenery. Nature provides an incredible backdrop all on its own.

long-lake-outdoor-center-wedding

Photographing at Long Lake Outdoor Center

From a photographer’s perspective, Long Lake Outdoor Center offers so many incredible opportunities throughout the day.

The lake creates beautiful reflections and soft light, while the wooded areas provide natural shade for portraits even during the brightest parts of the afternoon. As the sun begins to set, the entire property glows with warm golden light that makes for some truly magical portraits.

Some of my favorite images from this wedding happened simply by taking a short walk together around the property. There was never any need to force poses or rush from location to location. Instead, the couple was able to enjoy quiet moments together while I documented them naturally.

Those are always the photographs that end up meaning the most years later.

A Celebration Full of Joy

The reception continued the relaxed atmosphere of the day. Guests laughed together, shared stories, danced, and celebrated the newlyweds well into the evening.

One of my favorite moments was the couple’s first dance. It wasn’t about putting on a performance. It was simply two people soaking in the fact that they had just married their best friend while everyone they loved watched with huge smiles on their faces.

Those genuine moments are always my favorite to photograph.

Planning a Wedding at Long Lake Outdoor Center?

If you’re planning your own wedding here, here are a few things I’d recommend after photographing a celebration at this beautiful venue.

Plan time for portraits around the property.

There are so many gorgeous locations that it’s worth setting aside at least 20 to 30 minutes to explore together. You won’t have to travel anywhere, and you’ll end up with an incredible variety of photographs.

Leave room in your timeline to breathe.

One of the biggest advantages of this venue is its peaceful atmosphere. Build a little extra time into your day so you can actually enjoy it instead of feeling rushed from one event to the next.

Don’t skip sunset photos.

If your schedule allows, sneak away for just ten to fifteen minutes before sunset. The light over the lake is absolutely beautiful and often creates some of the most memorable images of the entire day.

Looking for a Long Lake Outdoor Center Wedding Photographer?

If you’re planning your wedding at Long Lake Outdoor Center, I’d love to help tell your story in a way that feels authentic, relaxed, and true to who you are.

My goal isn’t to spend your wedding day pulling you away from your guests for hours of posing. It’s to create beautiful photographs while allowing you to actually experience one of the best days of your life.

If that sounds like the kind of wedding photography experience you’re looking for, I’d love to hear all about your plans.

Ready to chat about your wedding? Reach out through my contact page, and let’s start planning something amazing together.

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Brandon and David’s Fall Wedding at The Felt Mansion in Holland Michigan

October on the lakeshore just understands the assignment, and Brandon and David’s wedding at the Felt Mansion in Holland Michigan, was proof. Golden leaves, cozy air, and two grooms who were fully in their moment all day long. It felt intentional, joyful, and honestly just really them in the best way. felt mansion wedding saugatuck michigan

The Venue:

The Felt Mansion is one of those places that somehow feels both elegant and relaxed at the same time. Tucked between Holland Michigan and Saugatuck Michigan, it has that quiet, tucked away energy while still giving full historic estate vibes.

It is kind of a dream if you want something that feels elevated but not stuffy.

A Thrifted Wedding but Make It Fashion:

Okay listen. When I say they thrifted their decor, I mean they committed.

So many of the details throughout the day were sourced secondhand, layered together in a way that felt intentional instead of random. It gave everything this collected, lived in, slightly vintage feel that you just cannot fake with bulk wedding decor.

And then they took it a step further and worked closely with their florist to tie everything together so it still felt cohesive and, dare I say, a little bit fetch. The florals elevated the thrifted pieces instead of competing with them, which is honestly the secret sauce.

Getting Ready:

The morning had that calm but excited energy. The kind where everyone knows it is a big day but no one is rushing.

Brandon and David both spent the morning with their people, laughing, getting ready, and soaking it all in. Those in between moments always end up meaning the most later, and this day had a lot of them.

felt mansion estate wedding saugatuck michigan lgbtq

Portraits:

Fall at the Felt Mansion really does not miss.

We had warm light, colorful trees, and that perfect October glow. Brandon and David made my job easy by just being fully themselves. Playful, connected, and not overthinking a single thing.

It felt less like posing and more like just existing together, which is always where the best photos live.

felt mansion estate wedding saugatuck michigan lgbtq

The Ceremony:

They first exchanged vows privately with close family and friends and there wasn’t a dry eye in the house! Then we went out to get the whole invite list involved!

It was just such a joy to witness <3

Two people choosing each other, surrounded by the people who matter most, in a space that already feels timeless. There were tears, there was laughter, and then there was RAIN to really seal the deal! It really added to the vibe and a wet knot cannot come undone!

felt mansion estate wedding saugatuck michigan lgbtq

The Reception:

As the sun went down, everything shifted into that cozy reception energy. Warm lighting, heartfelt toasts, and a dance floor that stayed packed.

It felt like one big exhale. Like everyone could just celebrate and be present and a little bit sweaty from dancing.

felt mansion estate wedding saugatuck michigan lgbtq

Why This Wedding Stuck With Me:

This day is a really good reminder that weddings do not need to be complicated to be meaningful.

Brandon and David focused on what actually mattered to them. Their people, their space, and creating something that felt personal from start to finish.

Also I will be thinking about their thrifted decor forever, so there is that.

felt mansion estate wedding saugatuck michigan lgbtq

Planning Your Own Felt Mansion Wedding:

If you are planning a wedding at the Felt Mansion, fall is kind of unreal, but honestly this venue works in any season.

If you are looking for a Holland Michigan wedding photographer or a Saugatuck wedding photographer who is going to keep things relaxed and focus on real moments, you can reach out here:

👉 CONTACT ME HERE!

Vendors:

Planning: The Best Day Details

Floral: WindFlowerDesign Co

Venue: Events at Felt

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Weaver House At Pine Bend | Allison + Isaac

How Did You Meet?

We met bartending weddings and events at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. We were friends for a long time before we actually started dating. My friend Ryan has said multiple times that he knew he would be at our wedding, he ended up officiating it!

Bride’s Dress

The dress was actually picked out about 30 days before the wedding and the alterations were finished about two weeks before. It was a crazy whirlwind of a mess getting everything secured, but in the end it was absolutely stunning.

Groom’s Suit

The suit I was wearing at the wedding was actually bought so I could officiate my sisters wedding, which I wore when I did. My ring was given to me by my mother and is my father’s wedding ring. My dad passed in 2016 so I meant a lot to have something like that incorporated into the wedding. Also, a fun side note, my silver pocket watch was a replica of Edward Elric’s state alchemist pocket watch from full metal alchemist.

Location

We got married at the Weaver House in West olive. The house is somewhere around 125 years old and was absolutely beautiful. We had a smaller amount of people and it fit everyone perfectly. The weather had not been great leading up to the wedding, but the day of was absolutely perfect.

The Decor:

Our theme was kind of witchcraft/pretty occult/fall time. My sister Tiphani, cousins Nick and Jill, and friends Maggie and Ryan helped set everting up. They did an incredible job and we absolutely would not have been able to pull it off without them

The Ceremony:

The ceremony was so beautiful. Ryan wrote an incredible ceremony and Allison and I were just trying to not break down into tears lol. We forgot our vows but both decided that we knew what the other meant and were ok with it lol.

Reception/Dancing/Music: All the fun!

Not so much dancing but we managed to build a playlist that our gen Z cousins, Boomer parents, and 85 year old grand parents all enjoyed. We think this is quite an achievement and were pretty proud! It was mostly funk, older pop love songs, and alternative hip hop.

Any Advice for couples planning their wedding?

Don’t take things so seriously. Most of the stuff that people stress about are things that no one thinks about or notices the day of. It’s supposed to be fun, so have fun!

Your Photographer: Tell us all about them 😉 What you liked or didn’t like. All the deets from the day of:

The photographer was amazing! We could not have asked for a better person to work with. Rachel was kind, professional, attentive, and just overall a great person! She asked us what we wanted/needed and executed it perfectly! She was a joy to be around and an absolute master of her craft!

FROM RACHEL: This day was SO FUN! A halloween wedding is always a vibe but doing costumes is THE BEST IDEA EVER! Such a blast. These two were wonderful and I hope I get to return to the Weaver House soon!

Venue: The Weaver House

Catering: Los Amigos

Hair Stylist: Brealyn Lee

Makeup Artist: Sam Cooley

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Top 5 Wedding Venues in Grand Haven, MI (Plus a Few Hidden Gems Nearby!)

Planning your West Michigan wedding and wondering where to host the big day? As a Grand Haven wedding photographer who’s seen everything from downtown ballrooms to barefoot beach ceremonies, I’ve photographed love stories in all kinds of beautiful spots. Whether you want waterfront views, a cozy modern space, or a venue that feels like a hidden gem, Grand Haven has more to offer than you might think!

Here are five wedding venues in and around Grand Haven that are perfect for your big day:

1. Harbourfront Grand Hall

Where: Downtown Grand Haven, MI
Vibe: Historic charm meets lakeside elegance
Why I love it: Located right above the Porto Bello restaurant, this venue has that old-Grand-Haven feel with brick walls, exposed beams, and incredible views of the harbor. It’s perfect for big celebrations and has the bonus of in-house catering.

2. Noto’s at the Bil‑Mar

Where: Right on the Grand Haven beach
Vibe: Upscale beachy with serious sunset potential
Why I love it: Want to say “I do” with sand between your toes, then party right inside? Noto’s gives you both ceremony and reception space, a stunning deck area, and a front-row seat to Lake Michigan’s iconic golden hour.

3. American Dunes Golf Club

Where: Grand Haven, MI
Vibe: Elegant and polished with patriotic roots
Why I love it: This venue has sweeping views of the course and gorgeous landscaping for portraits. It’s tucked away and peaceful, and the reception space is classy without being stuffy.

4. 707 Events

Where: Downtown Grand Haven
Vibe: Industrial cool meets minimalist modern
Why I love it: Perfect for couples who want a blank-slate space to really make their own. Think string lights, food trucks, custom cocktails, it’s totally customizable and super photogenic.

5. Mackinaw Ballroom (formerly Community Center)

Where: Grand Haven
Vibe: Classic ballroom with a local twist
Why I love it: This restored venue is right downtown and has beautiful natural light, a patio for cocktail hour, and room for a big dance floor. Plus, it’s walkable to photo spots by the water.

✨ Bonus: A Few Nearby Faves

If you’re open to venues just outside Grand Haven, check out:

Spring Lake Country Club – Elegant indoor/outdoor vibes Check out this Day
Camp Blodgett (West Olive) – Gorgeous lakeside ceremony views
Holiday Inn Grand Haven–Spring Lake – Super convenient with lodging & views

Venue Comparison Table

Venue	Capacity	Indoor/Outdoor	Location	Notable Features
Harbourfront Grand Hall	~275 guests	Indoor	Downtown Grand Haven	Brick walls, harbor views, in-house catering
Noto’s at the Bil‑Mar	~100–250	Both	Beachfront	Sunset views, beachfront ceremony
American Dunes Golf Club	~175	Both	Grand Haven	Lush course views, polished atmosphere
707 Events	~125	Indoor	Downtown Grand Haven	Customizable space, modern industrial look
Mackinaw Ballroom	~240	Both	Downtown Grand Haven	Classic ballroom, patio space

Wherever you choose to celebrate, I’d be thrilled to capture your day with honesty, joy, and a whole lot of dance floor candids.

If you want help figuring out which venue fits your vibe (or need to see more full galleries of any of these spots), get in touch, I’ve got you covered!

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Fenner Nature Center Wedding | Forest Wedding Inspiration | Allison + Alec

Forest Wedding Inspiration at Fenner Nature Center | Allison + Alec

fenner nature center wedding

There’s just something magical about saying “I do” beneath a canopy of trees. Allison and Alec’s wedding at Fenner Nature Center in Lansing, MI was the perfect blend of heartfelt, intentional, and joyfully untraditional. With nature as their backdrop, their day was deeply personal—from their hand-written ceremony to dancing the night away to Rock Lobster. If you’re looking for forest wedding inspiration, their celebration is one to bookmark.

How It All Began

“We met a few months before Covid hit and started a long-distance relationship in March 2020. About five days after deciding to give it a shot, we ended up quaranteaming together for six weeks in Allison’s apartment. We figured that if we could deal with each other in that situation, we might have something worth sticking to!”

Bride’s Dress

Allison’s dress was a BHLDN find—fun, comfortable, and perfect for a nature-forward wedding. She personalized it with a copper belt from Etsy, sewed in lace for modesty, and topped it off with custom Chaco sandals in their wedding colors: green, copper, and teal-blue.

Groom’s Suit

Alec’s teal-blue suit was a meaningful re-wear from his sister’s wedding. With a copper tie from Vivid Clothing Toronto and a matching tie clip from JLynnCreations, his look complemented both the color palette and the natural surroundings beautifully.

The Venue: Fenner Nature Center

“We got married at Fenner Nature Center in Lansing, MI. Nature and conservation are extremely important to us, so it felt right to choose a venue that aligned with our values. We held the ceremony in the Maple Grove under the trees, then wandered the trails with Rachel before heading to our reception in the Davis Nature Pavilion, surrounded by tall grass and wildflowers.”
For couples searching for a Michigan forest wedding venue, Fenner is a hidden gem.

The Decor

Letting the forest speak for itself, they kept decorations simple and meaningful:

Bouquets made from flowers grown in their own backyard garden
Tables named after special places in their relationship (where they got engaged, took trips, etc.)
A few printed photos of family and friends placed throughout the reception space

The Ceremony

“We wrote the entire ceremony ourselves. We grew up in religious households, but wanted something unique to us. We included meaningful readings from The Velveteen Rabbit and Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance. It was powerful and personal—and the weather held out just long enough for us to say our vows in a cathedral of trees.”

The Reception & Dancing

This reception was pure joy:

A bluegrass-inspired first dance to Jerusalem Ridge
Parent dances to 25 or 6 to 4 by Chicago, followed by a dance floor explosion
A surprise highlight: Rock Lobster by the B-52s, complete with a friend-led mayhem dance tradition

“We will always cherish the memory of laughing so hard at our wedding that our stomachs hurt.”

Advice for Future Couples

“Learn the difference between advice and opinions—you’ll get a lot of both. Don’t catastrophize. Things will go wrong, and that’s okay. Take time to talk to everyone, including each other.”

A Word About the Photographer (Hi, That’s Me!)

“Rachel is fun, friendly, considerate, talented, and infectious (in a good way)! She made an effort to get to know us and our families beforehand, which showed in how seamless everything felt the day of. She blended in when we needed space and stepped in when we needed help or time to ourselves—and captured all those moments beautifully.”

Forest Wedding Magic, Captured

Scroll down to see some of my favorite moments from Allison + Alec’s Fenner Nature Center wedding. If you’re planning a nature-filled celebration and want candid, meaningful photos to match, let’s talk!

Bride and groom walking through the forest at Fenner Nature Center wedding Wildflower wedding bouquet grown in backyard garden Outdoor ceremony under trees at Fenner Nature Center in Lansing, Michigan Couple dancing to bluegrass at forest wedding reception