Carly + Alex’s Waterfront Wedding in Houghton, Michigan

A laid-back spring waterfront wedding in Houghton, Michigan with loved ones, a beloved dog, and Portage Canal views

 

Carly and Alex planned a sweet spring wedding on the Houghton waterfront, the kind of day that feels simple in the best way. They’re Michigan Tech grads, and they built their celebration around what matters most to them: the people they love, the places that feel like home, and a pace that let them actually enjoy it all.

If you’re planning a wedding in Houghton (or anywhere along the Keweenaw), this is a perfect reminder that you don’t need a packed schedule for your day to feel full. A little breathing room, a waterfront view, and the right people nearby can go a long way.

Getting Ready at The Vault Hotel in Houghton, MI

Carly and the girls got ready at the Vault Hotel in downtown Houghton — clean lines, big windows, and the kind of thoughtful historic detail that photographs beautifully without trying too hard. The whole morning felt light and steady. Not rushed. Just everyone easing into the day together.

One of my favorite details: Carly wore a scent inspired by her chemistry degree. It’s such a good example of the kind of “detail” that actually matters — personal, specific, and tied to who you are (not just something you found on a checklist).

Alex and the guys kept things simple and close by, getting ready at the Super 8 on the Houghton waterfront. If you can, choose nearby getting-ready locations. It keeps the day feeling calm, and it buys you time back.

A Spring Wedding on the Portage Canal

For their ceremony, Carly and Alex chose a spot right along the Portage Canal waterfront in Houghton — open sky, water behind them, and everyone close enough to feel part of it. With just under 50 guests, the whole thing felt intentional and easy: less production, more presence.

They also planned a first look near the Portage Lake District Library, tucked just around the corner. I love first looks for couples who are a little more private (or just want a moment that’s theirs). It’s a reset button in the best way. You get to connect before the day starts moving quickly.

And yes, it was April in Houghton — meaning you plan for anything and let the lake do what it does. The early spring textures and that crisp waterfront air showed up in the sweetest way.

 

One of the best parts? Their Australian Shepherd was right there for the moments that mattered most. I always love when couples include their dog. It usually brings a little comic relief exactly when everyone needs it.

 

Signing the Marriage License at Keweenaw Brewing Company

After the ceremony, Carly and Alex headed to Keweenaw Brewing Company (KBC) to sign their marriage license, a local favorite and a very “Houghton” stop if you’ve spent any time here. With a pint in hand and a few friends nearby, it was quick, relaxed, and completely true to them.

I love moments like this in a timeline. They add meaning without adding stress and give you a quick moment to enjoy a drink and soak it all in.

Their Reception at Dee Stadium

That evening, the celebration moved to Dee Stadium, another one of those classic Houghton places that holds a lot of history, with an upstairs space that turns into the coziest reception. Carly and Alex brought in little outdoorsy nods (think hiking + adventure energy), and it felt welcoming from the second you walked in.

This is where the day really settled into itself: toasts, hugs, and that comfortable kind of laughter you only get when you’re surrounded by people who know you well.

 

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?

If you’re planning a wedding in Houghton or somewhere along the Keweenaw Peninsula, and you want photos that feel like you (real moments, natural portraits, and the landscape woven in) I’d love to help you bring it all together.

Start here: browse my Weddings page and if you want to see how I work on a wedding day, head to my Approach page. Then reach out when you’re ready 🙂