An Elevated Garden-Inspired Frutig Farms Wedding Rooted in Michigan Summer Nostalgia
Some love stories begin in the most fitting place possible.
For Grace and Lucas, it began at the University of Michigan — where she had started a club during their junior year, and he joined.
Their first impressions were instant.
“Wow, he’s really tall… and cute,” Grace laughs. “I immediately wanted to be around him as much as I could.”
Lucas remembers something deeper.
“My first impression of Grace was that she was beautiful and had such a positive outlook on life. She has a contagious personality that makes everyone around her happy.”
That energy — joy, warmth, optimism — would go on to define both their relationship and their wedding vision.
When Big Sur Made It Clear
Four months into dating, they took a trip to Big Sur in early 2020. For Grace, something shifted.
“I was already thinking about getting married,” she admits. “I didn’t say it out loud for another eight months or so — but I talked about him all the time and would daydream about our future.”
For Lucas, it was the first time he told her he loved her.
“I was so nervous,” he says. “I stumbled over my words. She said, ‘I think me too,’ and that was more than enough to have me set for life.”
That steady certainty — paired with laughter — carried them forward to planning their Frutig Farms wedding in Michigan.
Why They Chose Frutig Farms
Choosing Frutig Farms as their wedding venue felt natural from the start.
It wasn’t just the property itself — though the trees, fields, and even the donkeys made an impression. It was the experience.
“The inclusiveness of the venue, the friendliness of the team — especially Ed and Kelly — and the natural beauty of the area,” Grace shares. “It really was all of it.”
Their comprehensive tour left them feeling informed and supported, confident they would be guided not only on the wedding day but throughout the planning process.
Lucas was especially impressed by the thoughtful rain plan and smooth transition options — an important factor for a Michigan summer wedding.
Location also mattered. With deep ties to Ann Arbor and many out-of-town guests flying into DTW, Frutig Farms was the perfect blend of meaningful and practical. They’re especially excited about spending the entire weekend on-site, creating a true wedding experience rather than just a single event.
A Michigan Summer Wedding Vision
Their wedding aesthetic can best be described as an elevated backyard wedding meets garden formal — vibrant, seasonal, and deeply personal.
“We’re leaning bright and colorful,” Grace says. “But more than anything, we want it to feel meaningful.”
Michigan summers were the inspiration. Grace grew up in Michigan, and Lucas spent summers there in addition to attending U of M. The state holds layers of nostalgia — long sunsets, lush greenery, and the balance of elegance with relaxed, Midwestern warmth.
Their goal for their Frutig Farms wedding?
“A huge party. Good music. Good food. A late sunset. Nothing forced — just fun.”
Personal Details That Make It Theirs
Intentionality runs through every part of their celebration.
Lucas’s grandmother will be making her famous angel food cake for the wedding — a detail they’re both especially excited about.
They’re collecting old family wedding photos to display at the reception — grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles — weaving generations of love into the space.
Grace’s childhood next-door neighbor, Kari — a gardener — is growing flowers specifically for her bouquet and the rehearsal dinner.
“It feels really special,” Grace says. “Our wedding look will reflect how lucky we are to be surrounded by so much love and support.”
They’re also placing disposable cameras around the reception to capture candid guest perspectives — hoping to create memories while keeping phones tucked away.
Planning a Frutig Farms Wedding
Planning has been collaborative and joyful — especially seeing the overall design come to life.
Grace loved diving into the floral vision, and both of them highlight their tasting experience in Ann Arbor as a favorite memory.
Frita Batidos — a college staple for them — will be catering both dinner and the late-night snack.
“Our tasting went so well,” Grace says. “Being back in Ann Arbor with our parents trying all the food was so special.”
Lucas adds that he’s especially enjoyed curating the food and drink experience — seeing their future wedding day take shape.
Frutig Farms has played a key role in smoothing the process.
Grace notes that their walkthrough with Kaitlin made planning the ceremony flow significantly easier, particularly as they blend traditional and non-traditional elements.
Lucas loved attending the Frutig Farms Expo.
“Being able to meet and talk with all the vendors at one time was incredibly helpful — and fun.”
Looking Ahead to the Wedding Day
With 180 guests expected, the weekend will be filled with celebration.
Grace is most excited to exchange vows and finally be married — and to walk back down the aisle together.
Lucas is especially looking forward to their private vows after the ceremony.
“We’re using standardized vows during the ceremony, but we’re taking time afterward to exchange personal vows alone. It’ll be a moment to be vulnerable and real together during a very busy day.”
More than anything, they’re excited to gather everyone they love in one place — honoring their past, celebrating their present, and stepping into their future.
“I know this day will be filled with joy,” Lucas says.
Advice for Future Couples Planning a Frutig Farms Wedding
Grace’s advice: Be flexible.
“There are essentials that matter — stick to those. But being flexible with the smaller details makes the whole process so much more enjoyable.”
Lucas adds: Start early.
With a major concert at Michigan Stadium happening the same weekend, booking hotel room blocks early was crucial. Planning ahead helped secure their preferred season and vendors with ease.
Frutig Farms Wedding Details
Venue: Frutig Farms
Guest Count: 180
Caterer & Late Night Snack: Frita Batidos
Cake & Desserts: Katherine’s Catering + Nonni’s Angel Food Cake
Rentals: Blue Sky
Florals: Sunburst Blooms
Photography: Evan Davies
DJ: Justin at LuFru
Ceremony Music: Terry Farmer
Hotels: Holiday Inn, AC Hotel
Invitations: Volk
Hair & Makeup: Crystal Drake
Dress: The Wedding Shoppe
Rings: Brilliant Earth
Suits: Indochino
Website: The Knot - https://www.theknot.com/us/
Start Planning Your Own Effortless Wedding at Frutig Farms
If you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s as stress-free as it is beautiful, Frutig Farms is ready to bring your vision to life. With full weekend access, expert vendor connections, and a team dedicated to making your day amazing, you’ll experience the best of what a rustic, elegant wedding venue has to offer.