Makaila and Joshua’s Minimal Rustic Cleveland Wedding Was Full of Charm!

Summer weddings carry a unique magic that’s hard to replicate in any other season. The long, sunlit days and balmy evenings create the perfect backdrop for celebrations that feel both vibrant and timeless. Nature truly shines in the summer, offering couples a palette of vivid blooms, lush greenery, and golden light that adds a warm, romantic glow to every moment. Outdoor ceremonies, whether in scenic gardens or at a stunning lakeside, become unforgettable experiences, with open skies and gentle breezes heightening the atmosphere of love and joy. For indoor celebrations, the brightness of the season spills in, creating airy spaces that feel lively and inviting. Summer’s versatility allows for everything from breezy, casual gatherings to luxurious, elegant affairs. It’s also a season of abundance—seasonal flowers, fresh ingredients for menus, and endless photo opportunities ensure every detail feels rich and vibrant. Summer weddings beautifully reflect the warmth and energy of love itself.

We first met Makaila and Joshua on a crisp autumn afternoon, and it was impossible to miss the spark between them. From the way they laughed together to the warmth they radiated, their love felt boundless. When they shared their plans to marry in May 2024, right in the heart of Cleveland, it all made sense. The city has always been special to them—where they shared their first date, built memories, and fell in love. May, with its promise of renewal and blooming beauty, was the perfect month to celebrate their new chapter. Cleveland’s vibrant mix of historic charm and scenic spots reflected their personality as a couple—authentic and full of life. When the day came, as their wedding photographers, we captured every cherished moment—from their teary-eyed vows to the laughter beneath the city skyline. Their love story came alive, forever preserved in photos as genuine as they are.

Nestled in the heart of Cleveland, Gethsemane Lutheran Church provided a breathtakingly beautiful and deeply meaningful backdrop for Makaila and Joshua’s wedding day. With its striking Gothic-inspired architecture, the church stood as a timeless symbol of faith and love, its soaring spire and intricate stonework offering a sense of grandeur that perfectly complemented such an important occasion. Inside, the warm glow of sunlight filtered through vibrant stained-glass windows, casting kaleidoscopic colors onto the pews and creating an ethereal atmosphere that felt both intimate and sacred.

The church’s rich history lent a profound sense of tradition to their ceremony. Its century-old charm served as a reminder of love’s endurance, a sentiment that resonated deeply with Makaila and Joshua. Beneath the vaulted ceilings, they exchanged vows surrounded by family and friends, their joyful promises echoing in the hallowed space. Every detail seemed to align with their vision for a romantic and heartfelt day. The bride’s elegant gown flowed effortlessly against the polished wooden floors as the couple took their first steps as husband and wife. The church’s picturesque exterior, adorned by lush greenery and blooming flowers, was the perfect setting for post-ceremony photographs that forever captured the magic of their union.

Gethsemane Lutheran Church’s central location in Cleveland offers unparalleled access to some of the city’s most iconic wedding photo spots, making it an extraordinary choice for couples seeking beautiful backdrops. Just minutes away, the Cleveland Cultural Gardens reveal lush landscapes and intricate architecture, perfect for romantic portraits. Nearby, Edgewater Park provides breathtaking waterfront views, while the Cleveland Museum of Art lends a timeless elegance with its grand facade and serene lagoon. This proximity ensures that couples like Makaila and Joshua can effortlessly transition from their sacred vows to a variety of picturesque sites, capturing the ultimate blend of natural beauty and urban charm in their wedding photos.

Cleveland, Ohio, is a treasure trove of stunning backdrops for wedding photography, offering a range of settings from charming historic landmarks to breathtaking natural scenery. Whether you’re dreaming of romantic garden shots, urban architecture, or waterfront views, Cleveland has something to suit every couple’s vision. Its diverse locations mean you can capture the unique story of your special day in a way that feels personal and unforgettable. One of the most iconic choices for wedding photos in Cleveland is the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. This series of gardens is nestled within Rockefeller Park and celebrates the city’s rich cultural heritage. Couples flock here for the intricate landscaping, beautiful fountains, and elegant stonework. With each garden offering a distinct style, from the Italian Cultural Garden’s Renaissance architecture to the serene Japanese Garden’s koi ponds and delicate blossoms, the opportunities for stunning and varied portraits are endless.

If you’re looking for modern architecture with a touch of artistic flair, the Cleveland Museum of Art is another favorite spot. Its grand staircase, sleek marble facade, and reflective lagoon create a sophisticated yet timeless ambiance. Just steps away, Wade Lagoon offers a picturesque setting featuring colorful seasonal blooms, weeping willows, and quiet pathways that make for romantic, intimate shots, especially in the golden glow of sunset. For those who love urban energy and contemporary art, the Cleveland Public Square is a vibrant choice. It combines the city skyline with sprawling open lawns, fountains, and public art installations. There’s something strikingly dynamic about posing in front of the Key Tower or capturing movement near the dancing light installations and water features. Not far from here is the Union Terminal at Tower City. With its grand arched windows and Art Deco details, it provides a historic yet cinematic vibe, ideal for couples looking to evoke old-world glamour in their photos.

Edgewater Park is perfect for couples who prefer their photos to be infused with the beauty of nature and the majesty of Lake Erie. This waterfront park boasts sandy shores, rocky coves, and jaw-dropping views of the Cleveland skyline, especially during golden hour. The park’s lush greenery and scenic trails add a romantic, outdoorsy feel that feels both fresh and timeless. For an especially stunning shot, consider the Edgewater Pier, where the expansive lake stretches endlessly into the horizon. Speaking of Lake Erie, the Cleveland Lakefront Nature Preserve is a peaceful and slightly off-the-beaten-path option for wedding photos. This urban oasis features wildflower meadows, sweeping lake vistas, and trails framed by trees that change beautifully with the seasons. It’s ideal for couples seeking a quiet escape from the bustle of the city to capture earthy, intimate moments.

The historic West Side Market offers a unique backdrop for couples looking for something a little quirky yet steeped in Cleveland’s character. With its architectural charm and colorful market stands, this bustling landmark brings vibrancy and life to any photo set. For something equally historic yet more tranquil, head to the Cleveland Arcade. Its soaring glass ceiling, ornate ironwork, and warmly lit interiors exude elegance and romance. This 19th-century gem easily transports you to a bygone era and is an absolute favorite for couples opting for classic and luxurious indoor shots. Those aiming for a mix of modern edge and rugged industrial vibes will find Tremont’s streets to be a fantastic canvas. Known for its mix of historic homes, trendy boutiques, and street art murals, Tremont provides a versatile cityscape teeming with personality. Meanwhile, the Flats has become a hotspot for urban photography, thanks to its waterfront views, mixed-use buildings, and iconic industrial bridges. The juxtaposition of the gritty steel structures with the soft movement of the Cuyahoga River makes for stand-out photographs.

Nature lovers will find the Cleveland Metroparks system to be a jackpot. From cascading waterfalls at Mill Stream Run Reservation to the serene woodlands of Brecksville Reservation, there’s no shortage of lush natural settings. Bridal Veil Falls, with its cascading layers of water and overhanging tree canopy, is especially magical and aptly named for wedding photos. Similarly, Huntington Beach in Bay Village offers a peaceful, sandy retreat with lakefront views perfect for couples who want simplicity and natural beauty in their wedding portraits. University Circle features charming spots like the Cleveland Botanical Garden and the campus of Case Western Reserve University. The botanical garden’s vibrant flowers and dramatic greenhouse structure make for enchanting pictures. Nearby, the stone steps and shaded green spaces around Case Western’s historic buildings lend themselves to dreamy, timeless photographs blending academia and romance.

Music lovers will gravitate to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Its unique, glass-pyramid architecture juxtaposed against the lake makes it one of the most visually interesting photo spots in Cleveland. Couples with a playful spirit can pose against the bright red “Long Live Rock” sign for a fun, modern touch, or step closer to the waterfront for a more dramatic view of the city. Even a classic spot like the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo can provide a surprising and whimsical backdrop for wedding photos, especially in its RainForest exhibit. For a completely different tone, Severance Hall’s stunning interior, with opulent details and elegant lighting, is a top choice for couples who want sophistication and Old Hollywood glam in their wedding album.

Finally, when in Cleveland, you can’t overlook Voinovich Bicentennial Park. This serene promenade offers one of the best vantage points for capturing the city skyline. The park's waterfront location, graced by boats and the rolling expanse of Lake Erie, is a simple yet unforgettable place to mark your special day with photos that feel both iconic and deeply personal. With Cleveland’s eclectic mix of gardens, urban landscapes, waterfronts, and historic landmarks, couples are spoiled for choice when it comes to finding the perfect backdrops to tell their love story. The variety ensures every couple can find a spot that feels like a genuine reflection of who they are, capturing timeless memories in a city that seamlessly blends nature with culture and history.

Makaila and Joshua’s wedding day in Cleveland was a celebration brimming with elegance, love, and personal touches. The morning began with Makaila surrounded by her bridesmaids as she prepared for the biggest day of her life. Dressed in cozy white bridal pajamas adorned with fur trims, she exuded excitement and grace. Her bridesmaids, wearing matching black pajamas, added a chic touch to the morning.

When it was time, Makaila transformed into a vision of beauty, stepping into her cream white wedding dress. The gown’s full sleeves, plunging neckline, and intricate illusion lace details perfectly complemented its flowing A-line silhouette. To complete her bridal look, Makaila chose delicate pearl earrings, a braided updo, and a stunning white bouquet accented with greenery – each detail reflecting her timeless style.

Elsewhere, Joshua was preparing for his moment at the altar. Dressed in a royal blue formal suit, paired with a crisp white shirt, green tie, and a white floral boutonniere, he looked every bit the dashing groom. Alongside him, his groomsmen, similarly attired in matching blue suits with green neckties, stood ready to support him, adding cohesion and charm to the wedding party.

The church ceremony was intimate yet classic, with its wooden interiors enhanced by minimal white floral arrangements and greenery. Before the formal proceedings, Makaila and Joshua shared a private vow session, giving them a quiet moment together and resulting in breathtaking couple portraits. The joyous moment of Makaila walking down the aisle, her face glowing, marked the beginning of their shared promises and lifelong commitment to each other.

After the ceremony, the couple took time for portraits, capturing their love against the serene backdrop of Cleveland. The bridesmaids, glowing in complementary green dresses with mismatched silhouettes, and the groomsmen joined in for group portraits, making for unforgettable memories.

The evening unfolded at the reception, styled with impeccable details. The decor featured a fusion of green and white with rustic wooden touches and gold accents. A donut wall added whimsy, while the two-tier naked wedding cake with white icing mirrored the elegant simplicity of the event. Guests were captivated as Makaila and Joshua shared their first dance, heartfelt toasts were delivered, and the cake-cutting capped off the evening. Unique and deeply personal, Makaila and Joshua’s wedding was a celebration of their love story, blending rustic charm with timeless elegance. It was a day none in attendance would soon forget.