Lets start with a little background on how these two met and fell in love,
“We met on a VERY COLD January 2nd, 2010. Our first date was at Annie’s Steak House in Washington D.C. Erik walked up to Craig and told him he was the most beautiful guy in the place; then he started to walk away!! Craig grabbed his arm and replied, “you can’t just say that to me and then walk away”. The next 6 hours was spent walking thru the National Monuments into the early morning hours, talking non-stop, getting to know each other. They said good night, then couldn’t WAIT until their planned 2nd date at Starbucks the next day. They continued to tell each other about family, how they grew up, likes and dislikes, plans, and LOTS of laughing!!! Erik was living in London at the time, and Craig was in Virginia. The next several weeks were hard and created many expensive (but so worth it) phone bills. After 2 months, they met again in DC checking out all the sights, taking in the National Philharmonic Orchestra at the Kennedy Center and enjoying their favorite place in DC, Ben’s Chili Bowl. Over the next few months, the expense turned from phone bills to airfare!! Erik would come in from London to spend 10 days a month in Virginia working European hours in the middle of the night. Soon after, Craig received orders to Germany and they spent the next 3 years having fun working in and exploring Europe together. It was during these years that Craig and Erik discovered they want to spend the rest of their lives together, and that a Love like this is something you do not let get away. The time in Europe was amazing, and allowed for a bonding experience to take place that etched them permanently into each others’ hearts, forever!!”
And when they finally vowed on forever, they invited us to capture every moment, and we’re so glad they did!
The wedding took place at The Homestead in Glenn Arbor, Michigan. Erik got ready with his mother, buttoned up his paisley vest, wore his ivory smoking jacket style tux, and got ready for the big day. Meanwhile, across the resort, Craig did the same. His father helped him get dressed and fasten his cuff links, straighten his tie… Then, his mom pinned his boutonniere. It was important to both grooms to have their parents included since they have always been so supportive of them.
The ceremony took place at the scenic outlook at The Homestead. Surrounded by orchids, willow, hydrangeas, and more Erik walked down the Aisle to meet Craig, to the sounds of flutes and a harp… and let us just say, once those vows started, there was not a dry eye to be seen! The two exchanged rings, bowed their heads in prayer, said their I Dos, and kissed for the very first time as husbands before being showered in rose petals by all of their friends and family.
The two then made their way to their reception, where Field of Flowers outdid themselves with white floral upon every table. Mercury glass votives and paisley linens were also part of the party, which were reminiscent of the couple’s tuxes, there were brown wooden chargers, pillar candles… and all the styling and planning was thanks to the fabulous team at A Day In May Events. The couple entered their repetition to have a sweet first dance, they heard toasts from loved ones, and enjoyed catering from The Homestead, all before cutting into their white cake, covered in leaves, swirls, and gorgeous piping by Bella e Dolce. We especially loved their cake topper, which included their adorable dogs. Then, the two kicked off dancing to the sounds of Bob Mervak (and Band), Craig serenaded Erik, and all around, they had an amazing night celebrating with all of their favorite people.
We feel so very lucky these two invited us to be a part of their big day,
and we wish them all the best on their new adventure in marriage as husband and husband.
As a bonus, here is what the couple had to say about their trailer:
“John,
