Rachel + Michael’s Wedding at the Grand in Crown Point was the perfect way to start my busy season. I love it when the trees finally turn green. It’s that magical time between spring and summer. It was so great to be a part of this celebration in Indiana!

Their Story

“We met online (okay, Tinder) in the fall of COVID (September 2020). We quickly connected over our mutual love for travel, music, and exploring new places and foods. We spent lockdown binging TV shows and spending time outdoors. As the world slowly opened up again, we went to countless concerts and music festivals, traveled, explored tons of restaurants in the city. We even and adopted a crazy little dog named Moira. After three years together, we took a vacation to Germany to experience Oktoberfest in the fall of 2023. While on a day trip to Zugspitze in the German Alps, Michael caught me completely off guard on the top of the mountain and proposed.”

Getting Ready, Portraits + Ceremony

I was told ahead of time that the Grand is a historic court house in Lake County, so I was excited to take advantage of the historical vibes throughout the venue. I loved the cool little details that the building still retained, like the wall trimming and the various plaques near the old courtrooms. Both Rachel + Michael got ready in separate rooms across the hall. It was clear that each of these rooms had been redone in order to cater folks getting ready for their weddings. Their first look took place right in the upstairs mezzanine, followed by private vows and wedding party portraits. Once we completed photos of the couple, we all made our way down the street to the church. It was actually close enough for some guests to walk!

Wedding at The Grand in Crown Point, Indiana

After the church ceremony, we made our way back to the Grand for cocktail hour. Guests found their seats as they enjoyed appetizers, signature drinks, and the record sleeve guestbook. Rachel + Michael made their entrance, cut the cake, and listened to a few speeches. Once dinner was over, the couple had their first dance to “While You Were Sleeping” by Laufey. Parent dances soon followed along with the open dessert table, which featured a wide array of cheesecakes and an ice cream bar! The couple danced with their friends as sunglasses and feathered boas were passed around. And it wouldn’t be a Midwest wedding without hotdogs! This one was definitely a party to remember.

Photo: Madi Ellis Photography / Venue: The Grand Catering + Events / Coordinator: Enchanted Events / Hair + Makeup: Beauty and the Beach / Florals: La Petite Fleuriste / Dress: Something Blue Bridal / Suit: Men’s Warehouse / DJ: 27 Entertainment / Cheesecakes: Mr. CheezyCakes