A Styled Shoot Turned Surprise Proposal

By Published On: July 23, 2024

We love a styled shoot for so many reasons, but this one seriously tugs at our heart strings. Shot at the charming A Matter of Taste at Tapawingo restaurant in Northern Michigan, this lovely, nature-inspired styled shoot turned into a surprise proposal!

“With a ‘honey and wildflowers’ theme, the shoot was heavily inspired by nature, and we were dedicated to using local flowers, food, attire, and decor throughout,” says planner Jenna Koeller of Up North Events. Highlights include the beautiful outdoor setting, the authentic chemistry of the long-time real-life couple, Amy and Kaleb, an enchanting tablescape, and some incredibly scenic shots of the couple in a custom-built wooden rowboat out on St. Clair Lake.

However, Koeller says, “the icing on the cake was when Kaleb got down on one knee during the staged ceremony and proposed for real! You can tell by the look on Amy’s face, it was a total surprise!”

Amy and Kaleb tied the knot on July 8, 2023, but their engagement is a moment they’ll cherish forever.

“My sister-in-law, Jenna Koeller, asked us to be models in a staged photo shoot for her wedding planning business,” Amy wrote on the couple’s wedding website. “Naturally, we couldn’t turn down a good time and a free three-course meal. As I turned around to get the rings during the ‘ceremony’, Kaleb got down on one knee. To my surprise, we stopped playing pretend and took a moment to say yes to the rest of our lives together. It was the perfect fake wedding that led to a beautiful engagement.”

Vendors

Planner + Stylist: Jenna Koeller and Shelby Thrush, Up North Events

Photographer: Matte Photography

Venue + Catering: A Matter of Taste at Tapawingo

Florist: Fresh Coast Floral Co.

Table + Chair Rental: Timeless Event Rental

Tabletop Rentals: Serradella Rentals

Ceremony Arch: Down by the Bay Creative Event Rentals

Cake + Dessert: The Bow Tie Baker

Ceremony Guitarist: Kadin McCallum

Makeup: Makeup by Calla

Hair: MI Day Beauty

Favors + Candles: Hilbert’s Honey Co.

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