This Grand Haven elopement was the perfect mix of classic West Coast Michigan beach town charm and pure fun. We started at the Ottawa County Courthouse, where the couple officially tied the knot. We entered a courtroom, the two of them, their best friends as witnesses, me, & a judge (?) I don’t actually know who the official person who does the official things in this situation is titled as.. Hahaha.

From the courthouse, we made a stop just across the street at Central Park for a few portraits at a perfect little pocket of greenery in the middle of town. This gave the couple a quiet moment and a chance to soak in what had just happened before the rest of the adventure. Our couples' portraits started in downtown Grand Haven, where they were able to literally get their names up in shining lights by having the marquee sign of the old Grand Theatre personalized to commemorate their special day.

"CONGRATULATIONS TOM & LEAH SHAW, HAPPILY EVER AFTER."

Where could you go from here that gets more iconic in town? Think you won't be able to top the marquee sign? Think again. Next stop- PRONTO PUP. Because really, can you elope in Grand Haven without grabbing a dog? A wedding cake cutting will never feel right again. I think I’m going to need the couple to feed each other corn dogs every time from here on out.

We ended at Grand Haven City Beach for a few more portraits on a quiet stretch of shoreline. It was the ideal ending to a day that felt authentically “them.” If you’re dreaming of a laid-back West Michigan elopement celebration, Grand Haven is waiting for you.