Charlie and Angela’s Bay Harbor Yacht Club wedding was truly something special. The timeless views, elegant details, and charm of Northern Michigan’s shoreline created the perfect backdrop for a celebration like theirs. Their day felt both classic and deeply personal from beginning to end.

The morning began with a breathtaking sunrise over Little Traverse Bay with soft lighting spilling across the harbor as everyone got ready. Later, the sky turned gray and moody, but the rain held off just long enough for everything to unfold beautifully.

I’ve photographed several weddings within this same close-knit friend group, and each one feels like being welcomed back into something familiar and full of love. Angela and Charlie’s Northern Michigan wedding was no exception—elegant, joyful, and filled with meaningful moments!

The Night Before: A Northern Michigan Wedding Welcome Party

Angela and Charlie started their wedding weekend with a laid-back welcome party. Their closest friends and family gathered to celebrate alongside them. The Northern Michigan backdrop felt cozy and familiar, with the warm glow of string lights and rustic textures. It was the perfect setting for a party full of laughter and connection.

Angela’s satin dress and Charlie’s tailored jacket added a touch of elegance. I always love photographing welcome parties because they give space for the candid, in-between moments. Friends reuniting, toasts shared, and the anticipation that builds before the big day. Capturing these scenes brings even more depth to the full story of a wedding weekend.

The Details & Getting Ready at Bay Harbor Yacht Club

Angela and Charlie’s Bay Harbor Yacht Club wedding morning began with a view that took everyone’s breath away. Sunlight glowed over Little Traverse Bay and into their suites as the day began. With both rooms overlooking the water, it was the perfect calm start to their Northern Michigan wedding day.

Angela had the most timeless details like her pearl drop earrings, sleek satin gown, and soft glam by Face by Nertila. The floral design by Sweetwater Floral brought texture and warmth with classic blooms that complemented the space beautifully. One of the sweetest moments came when Angela shared a first look with her dad before heading to share a first look and get portraits with Charlie.

First Look & Bay Harbor Yacht Club Wedding Photos

Angela and Charlie shared their first look on the terrace overlooking Little Traverse Bay (one of the most breathtaking spots at Bay Harbor Yacht Club). Charlie couldn’t hold back his emotions when he saw Angela for the first time, and their golden retriever joined in for the sweetest surprise! Watching their dog run toward them made the moment even more heartfelt.

Afterward, we took portraits along the water, surrounded by the soft colors of early fall. The elegant white architecture of the venue and the bay’s calm backdrop made every photo timeless. It’s easy to see why this location is such a favorite for Northern Michigan weddings. The views, the light, and the peaceful atmosphere all come together effortlessly! Photographing here was truly magical.

Bay Harbor Yacht Club Wedding Ceremony on the Promenade Dock

The Promenade Dock at Bay Harbor Yacht Club offered the perfect waterfront backdrop for this Northern Michigan wedding. Overlooking Bay Harbor Lake, the ceremony space featured white chairs, crisp florals, and soft autumn tones from the surrounding landscape. The nearby waterfall and gardens added a calm, natural beauty, while the docked yachts brought a touch of coastal elegance. Hosting up to 300 guests, this space creates the perfect blend of intimacy and stunning waterfront scenery.

Angela and Charlie kept their décor classic with white roses and greenery that let the beauty of the location shine. As a live string quartet played, guests watched Charlie grow emotional seeing Angela walk down the aisle. Standing there, it was impossible not to feel how special it is to get married at Bay Harbor Yacht Club.

Cocktail Hour on the Terrace & Reception in the Lange Center Ballroom

Guests moved to the terrace for cocktail hour, enjoying sweeping views of Little Traverse Bay as string lights twinkled overhead. Signature drinks like espresso martinis and spicy margaritas set the mood while everyone mingled and celebrated together. Before the reception began, Angela and Charlie shared a private room reveal in the Lange Center Ballroom, taking in the warm glow of candlelight, the grand king-style tables, and the elegant neutral palette that tied everything together.

Their closest friends (their unofficial wedding party) joined them for photos before guests entered the ballroom. Heartfelt speeches filled the room, followed by a packed dance floor and a champagne tower that had everyone cheering. To end the night, Angela and Charlie shared a private dance on the terrace under the lights, with the bay shimmering in the background. Photographing Angela and Charlie’s Bay Harbor Yacht Club wedding was an absolute dream. The kind of day that reminds you just how special Northern Michigan weddings truly are!

Why Bay Harbor Yacht Club Is a Favorite Northern Michigan Wedding Venue

If you’ve been dreaming of a Bay Harbor Yacht Club wedding in breathtaking Northern Michigan, this venue might just be your perfect match. Imagine the warm glow of sunset bouncing off the lake, the gentle hum of a northern breeze, and an elegant setting that still feels wonderfully you.

This venue is perfect for couples who care more about connection than perfection. It’s for couples who want to feel present with each other and their people. If reading this blog made your heart lift at the thought of these moments, and you’re looking for a Northern Michigan wedding photographer who values genuine connection, storytelling, and emotional clarity, I’d love to meet you.

You can learn more about me here, and if you think I might be the right photographer for you, inquire with me. Let’s see if we’re the perfect fit for your day at Bay Harbor Yacht Club (or beyond, because yes, I travel!).

Your story deserves to be told, and I’ll capture it with heart, intention, and care.

Love From Angela:

“Patty is absolutely amazing!! I met her when she was photographing a couple of my friends weddings and after meeting her I knew she had to be my photographer as well for my wedding! She is so kind, genuine, and so incredibly talented. My engagement and wedding photos turned out absolutely perfect and I can’t thank her enough for capturing every special moment 🙂 I highly recommend Patty she is the BEST!” – Angela

Patty Leonor | Destination & Northern Michigan Wedding Photographer

Vendors:

Planning: Melissa Novak Events
Photography: Patty Leonor
Videography: Mandie Forbes
Day-of Coordination: Up North Events
Venue: Bay Harbor Yacht Club
Band: Green Fourteen Chicago
Hair & Makeup: Face by Nertila
Florals: Sweetwater Floral
Cake & Desserts: Simply Sweet by Jessica
Rentals: TC Tent & Event Rentals
Transportation: Sunset Premier Shuttle
Invitations: The Write Touch
Day-of Paper Goods: Alyssa Amez Design