A Day to Remember: Makenna & Alex’s Elegant Barn Wedding
Photography by Kylie Haack Photography
Love was in the air, and emotions were high as Makenna and Alex Jewell tied the knot on a warm June day in 2024. With the thermometer climbing to 84 degrees, their wedding day was as heartwarming as their love story— a day full of perfect reflection, careful planning, and unforgettable surprises.
Ceremony site at Scheltema Barn,. Caledonia
A Love Story Eight Years in the Making
Makenna and Alex’s story began over eight years ago at an overnight church event, where their paths first crossed. But as fate would have it, their connection didn’t stop there. Alex’s brother moved in next door to Makenna’s family, making it easy for the two to reconnect. With a mix of teenage nerves and excitement, Makenna would sneak over to her neighbor’s house just to spend time with Alex when he came to visit. Those stolen moments blossomed into a friendship and, years later, into a love story that culminated in their elegant farmhouse wedding.
Alex’s proposal reflected the spontaneity and sincerity of their relationship—he popped the question just ten minutes before Makenna walked across the stage to graduate from college. That heartfelt moment set the tone for their journey, filled with surprises, joy, and deep connections..
Jensen Jewlers, beautiful options for wedding rings
The Venue: A Character-Filled Barn
Scheltema Barn is a landmark barn, built in 1837. The couple chose this charming barn venue, drawn to its unique character and the creative freedom it offered. The stunning setting offers so many options for the bridal party and guests to enjoy. The outdoor ceremony site offers a waterfall for a gorgeous ceremony backdrop. The elegant farmhouse aesthetic they envisioned came to life with a blend of DIY elements and meticulously chosen decor. Every detail, from the rustic table settings to the tasteful floral arrangements, contributed to a cohesive and stunning design.
Scheltma Barn Ceremony Site, Caledonia MI
The Ceremony: A Celebration of Love and Life
The ceremony was a poignant mix of love and remembrance. A surprise butterfly release during the vows honored Makenna’s late stepfather, filling the air with a sense of hope and continuity. They were released following a beautiful poem of memory read by Officiant Laurie Ayers, who made the entire ceremony both fun and meaningful. This beautiful gesture of releasing butterflies left not a dry eye in the crowd and became a highlight of the day.
Butterfly release
Another tear-jerking moment came during Makenna’s first look with her father. Overcome with emotion, he couldn’t hold back his tears as he saw his daughter in her beautiful gown from Timeless Bridal Boutique. And if that wasn’t enough to pull at everyone’s heartstrings, Makenna and Alex shared intimate, handwritten vows during their private first look—a moment of pure connection between the two.
A Day Full of Smiles
The joy didn’t stop at the couple. Alex’s young son played a major role in the festivities as the ring bearer. His beaming smile was infectious, and he delighted in every part of the day, from the ceremony to the lively reception as one of his favorite people is now called family.
A Flawless Day, Thanks to All Things Considered
Planning the perfect wedding can be daunting, but with the help of All Things Considered , Makenna and Alex were able to enjoy every second of their special day. Lead planner, Rachelle guided the couple to the perfect vendors that maximized their budget while following their vision. From crafting a detailed timeline to managing hands-on service, the day of coordinator, Meselech ensured every element—rentals, decor, invitations, and even the menu—was seamlessly executed.
Makenna chose All Things Considered after being impressed the owners warmth and expertise. “She knows literally everything about weddings,” Makenna said. “She had an immediate answer to everything!”
Wedding favors of delicious baked cookies and local honey
A Wedding to Remember
After touching toasts served by Glass Slipper Bartending and a delicious meal by the groom’s employer, Fresh Coast Kitchen - Lakeshore Audio and Entertainment kept guests on the dance floor, celebrating the couple’s love late into the evening. The combination of careful planning, a breathtaking venue, and a crowd full of loved ones made for a reception that everyone will remember for years to come.
The Details That Shined
Wedding Rings: Jensen Jewelers
Wedding Dress: Timeless Bridal Boutique
Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Azazie
Groom & Groomsmen Attire: Woodland Tailoring
Rentals: Rentalex
Officiant: Laurie Ayers
Photographer: Kylie Haack Photography
Caterer: Fresh Coast Kitchen
Bartender: Glass Slipper Bartending
Venue: Scheltema Barn
Wedding Management: All Things Considered GR
Butterflies: Michigan Native Butterfly Farm
From the beautiful butterfly release to the smiles shared during the reception, Makenna and Alex’s wedding was the perfect blend of elegance, emotion, and celebration. Here’s to a lifetime of love and happiness for the Jewells!
Whether it is through farmhouse elegance, a butterfly release, or something completely different - All Things Considered is here to help all couples personalize their wedding day in a way that tells their personal love story!
