Deanna + Ben | Modern Barn Wedding | Black River Barn | South Haven, MI

The art of thinking about others before yourself is, in our opinion, one of the cornerstones to a strong and happy marriage. The ability to think outside yourself and what you want and instead focus on the needs and wants of others is the definition of humility; and this past weekend, we are pretty sure we spent the day with humility personified in Deanna and Ben! From a wedding that was specifically crafted for their guests, to the little surprise they gave Josh since their wedding day happened to fall on his birthday, Deanna and Ben flowed through the day with the grace and care that makes us want to be more like them!

If you've ever met these two, then you know that they are both full of life and never do anything half-hearted! From the first moments they walked in the doors at Black River Barn, laughter and singing rose from the bridal suites as their friends couldn't wait to celebrate their big day with them! The look of pure joy on Ben's face when he saw Deanna during their first look had literally not faded by the time we left late in the evening, and if we know anything about Ben, it's probably still there every time he sees her.

Black River Barn was the perfect venue for them to create a wedding experience where their guests felt loved and cared for, while still allowing for moments where their family history was honored and celebrated. The outdoor grounds created the perfect patio setting for both the ceremony and the cocktail hour while the gorgeous main ball room had enough room to comfortably seat all of their friends and family while still having enough room for an absolutely insane dance floor! And if we can't say enough amazing things about Black River Barn, then stay tuned because we are heading back next weekend!

Deanna and Ben, you two are not even one week into marriage, and you have already challenged us with how much you love and care for others! You have such a great starting point in your marriage as you both already seek to put each other first over your own desires, and we know that that foundation is only going to grow and get stronger as you two grow closer together! Next time we are in Chicago, we know who we are looking up so we can visit, so make sure to keep an evening open for us! All our best!

J + A

Ben had this ring specially made with diamonds from another ring for the "blue" for Deanna to wear on her wedding day!