Carly + Alex’s Waterfront Wedding in Houghton, Michigan
A laid-back spring wedding with loved ones, a beloved dog, and Portage Canal views
Before packing up to start their next chapter out west, Carly and Alex gathered their favorite people for a sweet spring wedding on the Houghton waterfront. These two Michigan Tech grads brought together everything they love—nature, close-knit friendships, their Australian Shepherd, and each other—for a day that felt like them from start to finish.
Getting Ready at The Vault Hotel in Houghton, MI
Before the ceremony, Carly and the girls got ready at the Vault Hotel—a chic downtown Houghton spot with rich tones, big windows, and all the historical details. The energy was light and happy as the bridal party got ready.
Carly wore a scent inspired by her chemistry degree (how perfect is that?), and small touches like that were woven throughout the day—quiet nods to their shared story at Michigan Tech and the adventures that led to this day.
Alex and the boys got ready at the Super 8 Hotel—close by on the Houghton Waterfront.
A Spring Wedding on the Portage Canal
Carly and Alex chose a beautiful location right along the Portage Canal waterfront in Houghton for their intimate ceremony. With just under 50 guests, the celebration was small by design—centered on connection and the start of their new adventure together. The canal made for a serene and stunning backdrop while their guests stood close, creating the relaxed, heartfelt setting they envisioned.
They had their first look near the Portage Lake District Library, tucked just around the corner from the ceremony site. It was quiet, genuine, and full of that “just us” magic I love capturing. April in Houghton can be unpredictable, but the lake views and early spring details showed up in the best way.
One of the best parts? Their Australian Shepherd was around for the most important parts of the day. It’s always a joy to photograph couples who include their pets—they bring so much heart (and usually a little comic relief, too).
Signing the Marriage License at Keweenaw Brewing Company
After the ceremony, Carly and Alex headed to Keweenaw Brewing Company—better known as KBC—to sign their marriage license. It’s a favorite hangout for locals and Michigan Tech students alike, so it felt like a fitting stop before the rest of the celebration. With a pint in hand and a few friends around, it was a simple, low-key moment that felt very true to them.
Their Reception at Dee Stadium
Later that evening, the party moved to Dee Stadium, a classic piece of Houghton history with the upstairs turned cozy reception venue. Carly and Alex brought their outdoorsy personalities into the space with decor that nodded to hiking and adventure. It felt like stepping into a space curated just for them: laid-back, celebratory, and centered around community.
Saying Goodbye to the U.P.—and Hello to a New Chapter
Carly and Alex’s wedding day was more than just a “yes” to each other. It was also a goodbye to their time in the Upper Peninsula. Just weeks after tying the knot, they packed up and moved to Washington State to start new jobs and new adventures. Their ceremony marked the end of one season and the start of another—and I felt so lucky to capture it all.
Thinking about a wedding in Houghton or somewhere along the Keweenaw?
I know this area well and love helping couples make the most of its natural beauty—especially if you’re planning something relaxed, outdoorsy, and full of heart. Just reach out whenever you’re ready to start dreaming it up.
