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2012 Mackinac Island Weddings

2012 Weddings on Mackinac Island were just Fabulous.

The weather for most of the season was warm and sunny. The Brides and Grooms were so kind and happy to be on Mackinac Island for a special Destination Dream Wedding.  Family and friends made for the most pleasurable season ever. The smiles were “spactabulas”.  The countless hours that are put into making your special day is endless, from scheduling all the important meetings from the dress, tuxes, venues, music, reception, minister, ceremony venue,  guest list, photographers, guest room for all your friends & family, and then you arrive to catch your Wedding boat to Mackinac Island. When you arrive you are picked up by horse and buggy and taken to your Hotel/Inn/Resort and your Wedding dreams begin. That’s where a local photographer is your best friend for your special day. There’s something to say about knowing the special places on the Island and the years of experience that brings you additional entertainment, surprises and just Pure Michigan fun.

I know these pictures will put a smile on your face and joy in your heart.

Below are just a few pictures from the 2012 season.

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Erin & Nick 2012  Mission Point Resort

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Danielle & Erik   “Somewhere In Time Gazebo” Fort Mackinac

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Brett & Jason  “Island House & a stroll around the Island.

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Wendy & Bill  “True Elopement” Just the two of us.

A Fall Dream comes true.

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All 4 seasons are beautiful on Mackinac Island for any event.

The colors in the spring and fall are amazing

and the smell of Lilacs and Fall leaves turning colors are fabulous.

If you are spending time on  Mackinac Island and would like your event photographed give me

a call for dates and costs starting from 1/2 hour sessions to 12 hour Wedding packages.

Booking for the 2013 & 2014 season  /  231-631-2002

info@photosbyblair.com  /  www.photosbyblair.com

Artistic Mackinac Gallery & Studio  /  1500 Astor St. Mackinac Island, MI  49757


“Grand Hotel” Birthday Celabrates 125 years on Beautiful Mackinac Island, July 10,1887 to July 10th, 2012

Congratulations Grand Hotel’s 125th Birthday Celebration. It has truly been an honor to have had the opportunity for photograph Weddings and Events the past 16 years at the Grand Hotel on Beautiful Mackinac Island. A tribute to a “Grand Hotel” from my opportunities and perspectives. History & Memories. Hope these pictures put smiles on everyone’s heart.

On July 10, 1887, Grand Hotel opened its doors for the first time.

The Celebration Flags.

One of many Grand Hotel’s horse drawn Carriages.

The 660′ Porch is “Spactabulas”.

From Weddings on the Grand Porch to,

Pure Michigan events.

Mr. Dan Musser Sr. Past President.

So much History… Children’s Birthday Party Grand Hotel 1935 with my mother Dr. Mercedes A. Lapine and Aunt Charmine.

To the award winning movie “Somewhere In Time”. Christopher Reeve & Jane Seymour.

Somewhere in Time is a 1980 romantic science fiction film directed by Jeannot Szwarc. It is a film adaptation of the 1975 novel Bid Time Return by Richard Matheson, who also wrote the screenplay. The film stars Christopher ReeveJane SeymourChristopher PlummerTeresa Wright, and Bill Erwin. Reeve plays Richard Collier, a playwright who becomes smitten by a photograph of a young woman at the Grand Hotel. Through self-hypnosis, he travels back in time to the year 1912 to find love with actress Elise McKenna (portrayed by Seymour). But her manager William Fawcett Robinson (portrayed by Plummer) fears that romance will derail her career and resolves to stop him.

Did you know there was another movie made on Mackinac Island 1947. By george there was:

“This Time for Keeps”.

This Time for Keeps is an American romantic musical film released in 1947 and produced by MGM. It is about a soldier, returning home from war who does not wish to work for his father’s opera company or to continue his relationship with his pre-war lover. It stars Esther WilliamsJimmy DuranteJohnnie Johnston and Lauritz Melchior and it was directed byRichard Thorpe. The film was shot in color on location at the Grand Hotel, on Mackinac Island in Michigan.

There’s just nothing like the “Grand Hotel” view when sailing to the Island.

From spring time to:

Summer:

To Fall:

and Winter.

The “Grand Hotel” is truly “Somewhere in Time”

Come and help us celebrate “Grand Hotel’s” 125th Birthday. A week long celebration.

 I do be-leave a big birthday cake is in the making for 8pm July 10th on the “GRAND” porch. See you soon.

Steven Blair: Photography By Blair / www.photosbyblair.com / www.artisticmackinac.com / info@photosbyblair.com

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Artistic Mackinac Gallery & Studio 2012

The 2012 season is officially upon us. Welcome to Artistic Mackinac Gallery & Studio on Beautiful Mackinac Island. Our featured artist this year is internationally known “Noel Skiba”. She will be painting off and on throughout the summer season at the gallery. It is truly a pleasure to watch her paint.

 We look forward to your visit as always and do plan a little extra time to stop by the gallery and browse the many island scenes on canvas. Featuring Four Seasons on Mackinac, Round Island Lighthouse, Mackinac Bridge, many of the historic building, Grand Hotel, Flowers on Mackinac, Somewhere in Time memorability. We have full time photographers to photograph your special day weather it’s your wedding, family reunion, engagements, graduation, or just a last minute portrait of your family while visiting Mackinac Island. Located on Astor St, middle of town between Main and Market streets.

Steven Blair, Island photographer, owner of Artistic Mackinac Gallery & Studio has been photographing on Mackinac Island for over 20 years. A Freelance and Wedding photographer.

This spring the Gallery went through a complete remodel that has been needed for many years. It’s now a very quaint and pleasant atmosphere to view Photograph Art as I have envisioned for many years. A place you can relax and enjoy some Island art.

One of many new features on canvas for 2012. Four Seasons on Mackinac.

The lilacs are in bloom and the sweet aroma is breathtaking.

One of my favorite canvases is the Lilacs that shine on Mackinac Island.

The wild flowers on Mackinac Island are intense this time of year. From Lilacs to Trillium’s and Lady Slippers in the wooded hills.

Noel Skiba’s painting art on Astor Street.

Taking in some early evening  colors on Astor Street.

Here is a sampling of some of Noel Skiba’s painting art. It’s breathtaking.

The story of lilac, according to Greek mythology, begins with a beautiful nymph named Syringa (lilac’s botanical name). Captivated by her beauty, Pan, the god of the forests and fields, chased Syringa through the forest. Frightened by Pan’s affections, Syringa escaped him by turning herself into an aromatic bush – the flower we now refer to as lilac.


Mackinac Island Weddings 2011

2011 Wedding Season on Mackinac Island was “Spactabulas”. So many beautiful summer days, Brides & Grooms and family and friends made for the most pleasurable season ever. The countless hours that are put into making your special day is endless from scheduling all the important meetings from the dress, tuxes, venues, music, reception, minister, ceremony venue,  guest list, photographers, guest room for all your friends & family, and then you arrive to catch your Wedding boat to Mackinac Island. Then you arrive and are picked up by horse and buggy and taken to your Hotel/Inn/Resort and your Wedding dreams began.  Below are some of the most memorable wedding pictures and stories of 2011.

Heather & Jason 62511

 A beautiful June afternoon at Mission Point Resort starting with the ceremony at the Gazebo and then a Cinderella carriage ride through the Island.

That takes you through downtown Mackinac Island,

Heather & Jason 6-25-11

Heather & Jason 6-25-11

Heather & Jason 6-25-11

Heather & Jason 6-25-11

To the lakeshore over looking the straights of Mackinac,

To the ride pass Grand Hotel to West Bluff.

Heather & Jason 6-25-11

Heather & Jason 6-25-11

Then the ride from West Bluff to East Bluff,

Passing by the Fort Mackinac to East bluff,

Heather & Jason 6-25-11

 Heading to East bluff over looking The straights of Mackinac and Round Island Lighthouse,

Heather & Jason 6-25-11

Heather & Jason 6-25-11

and the ride back to Mission Point Resort.

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Then some family pictures on the lawn,

Heather & Jason 6-25-11

 to that special time with the bride and groom.

Heather & Jason 6-25-11

Then to the reception to celebrate into the evening.

Congratulations to Heather & Jason.

Heather & Jason 6-25-11

A very beautiful couple, just the two of us, Kelly & Kevin on the porch of the Grand Hotel.

A gorgeous day for their Wedding on Mackinac Island.

Kelly & Kevin 09-04-11

 A ride downtown Mackinac Island.

Kelly & Kevin 09-04-11

Kelly & Kevin 09-04-11

Kelly & Kevin 09-04-11

Kelly & Kevin 09-04-11

Kelly & Kevin 09-04-11

Kelly & Kevin 09-04-11

Another beautiful Wedding at the Grand Hotel with the Bride in the lobby before the celebration.

Lindsey & Horatio 9-18-11

Pre-Wedding ceremony pictures on the front steps of the Grand Hotel.

Lindsey & Horatio 9-18-11

Ceremony at the Tea Garden on the front lawn of the Grand Hotel.

Lindsey & Horatio Sept 18th, 2011

You may kiss your Bride.

Lindsey & Horatio Sept 18th, 2011

Lindsey & Horatio Sept 18th, 2011

Lindsey & Horatio Sept 18th, 2011

The wedding carriage ride down east bluff hill and on there way through downtown.

Lindsey & Horatio Sept 18th, 2011

Downtown Mackinac Island ha-ray in front of the big store. Hav’in fun yet.

Lindsey & Horatio Sept 18th, 2011

Lindsey & Horatio Sept 18th, 2011

A great Wedding shoot with this couple. Lots of fun and energy with this couple and wedding party.

Lindsey & Horatio Sept 18th, 2011

 End of the season on Mackinac Island brought a Somewhere In Time Wedding at the Grand Hotel.

Oct 7th, 2011 Vicki & Tim were married on the porch during the “Somewhere In Time” weekend and truly dressed for the occasion.

Vicki & Tim Oct 6th, 2011

Vicki & Tim Oct 6th, 2011

Vicki & Tim Oct 6th, 2011

Some colored pencil art that the bride & groom asked me to create.

Vicki & Tim Oct 6th, 2011

Vicki & Tim Oct 6th, 2011

Vicki & Tim Oct 6th, 2011

A just married wedding carriage ride through the hill on Mackinac Island.

Vicki & Tim Oct 6th, 2011

Vicki & Tim Oct 6th, 2011

East end of the Grand Hotel Porch over looking the golf course and Lake Huron.

Vicki & Tim Oct 6th, 2011

A stroll down the Grand Porch on this beautiful fall wedding day.

Vicki & Tim Oct 6th, 2011

A grand kiss on the deck of the grand steps.

Vicki & Tim Oct 6th, 2011

At the site of one of the scenes from the “Somewhere In Time” movie.

Vicki & Tim Oct 6th, 2011

Then the clothes were changed for the period and festivities at the “Somewhere in Time” bash at the Grand Hotel.

If you’ve seen the movie you’ll know what this picture/scene represents.

Vicki & Tim Oct 6th, 2011

Vicki & Tim Oct 6th, 2011

I will post a blog on the somewhere in time festivities and add more of Vicki & Tim’s wedding day in that blog.

Vicki & Tim Oct 6th, 2011

Congratulations Vicki & Tim and thank you for such a unique  photo shoot on your special day and the fun at the “Somewhere In Time” festivities.  Also your visit to my gallery “Artistic Mackinac Gallery & Studio” in your time period clothing.

Vicki & Tim Oct 6th, 2011

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Mission Point Resort Bridal Show Mother’s Day May 8th 2011

Mission Point Resort Bridal Show Sunday Mother’s Day May 8th, 2011

10:00 to 1:00 pm

All you need to plan a Memorable Mackinac Island Wedding under one roof!

Admission is free!

• Meet with Local Vendors: Photography By Blair
• Meet our Professional Event and Catering Staff
• View our Lovely Function Spaces
• Enjoy Beautiful Mission Point Resort

www.photosbyblair.com

Looking forward to meeting all the Brides that are planing on having there Wedding on Mackinac Island.

A few Wedding pictures at Mission Point Resort.

Beautiful Lawn area.

On the putting course with the ponds.

The Gazebo is so Beautiful for your special day.

There are so many venues on the grounds of Mission Point Resort for beautiful pictures memories of your Wedding Day at Mission Point Resort. Feel free to call me with any questions on the up coming Bridal Show.

231-631-2002.

info@photosbyblair.com / www.photosbyblair.com

Reservations Call: 1-800-833-7711


2010 Michigan Weddings

Traveling through out Michigan from Grand Rapids to Mackinac Island, the 2010 Wedding season was fabulous. It was a pleasure meeting so many beautiful people. Everyone comes from different walks of life but Wedding Celebrations are special, the different personalities are so enlightening, the smiles are addicting as depicted in the following pictures.  If you are still searching for a photographer for 2011 season we still have a few weekend dates open on the calendar. Feel free to contact us at 231-631-2002 or info@photosbyblair.com

Nick & Chalice / July 17th, 2010 / Grand Rapids, MI

A beautiful day, downtown Grand Rapids for these Newlyweds. Great group of friends for the Wedding party and ready to have fun with the camera.  It’s so important to let the kids relax and the camera will do the rest with an artistic touch of experience.

“GORGIOUS!!!! Steven Blair, we just love our pictures. They are so captivating and reflecting the feeling that was shared that day. Thank you so very much.”

Nick & Chalice / July 17th, 2010 / Grand Rapids

A Beautiful Sunset for Nick & Chalice at there reception that evening.

Nick & Chalice / July 17th, 2010 / Grand Rapids

There’s nothing like a “Beach Wedding”. Traverse City and the west side of Michigan as we call it “The Third Coast” has the most beautiful beaches anywhere. The venues are the ticket to a safe beach wedding so keep that in mind

Park Shore Resort is one of those special venues.

Michelle & Jeff / Sept 12th, 2010 / Traverse City on the Beach

Megan & Jeff / Sept 12th, 2010 / Traverse City

Michelle & Jeff / Sept 12th, 2010 / Traverse City on the Beach.

Michelle & Jeff / Sept 12th, 2010 / Traverse City on the Beach

Downtown Traverse City, a difference place, a different time, in the city. The old Opera house was the venue for this unique wedding. Walked to the Bay, the Boardman river, to photograph my different acting styles.  This group are actors from the Old Town Playhouse, Traverse City, MI

Jane & Keith / 10-10-10 / Downtown Traverse City.

Reflections: There are so many possibilities.  Pick your lines.

Jane & Keith / 10-10-10 / Traverse City, MI

Shady Lane Cellars is located on a historic 150-acre farm between Traverse City and Suttons Bay on the Leelanau Peninsula.  Strategically situated to benefit from the meso climate created by Lake Michigan and Grand Traverse Bay, it is a prime vineyard site and a spectacular wedding venue.

Allen &Tiffanie / Sept 18th, 2010 / Leelanau County Winery

Timberlee Hills nestled in the hills of Leelanau County just north west of Traverse City is a quite venue with breath taking views of Lake Leelanau and the hills that surround this property are like non other.

Liz & Patrick / Oct 16th, 2010 / TimberLee Hills / Leeanau County

The Homestead Resort, Glen Arbor, Leelanau county.

Katelin & Jeff / Oct 8th, 2010 / The Homestead Glen Arbor

Katelin & Jeff / Oct 8th, 2010 / The Homestead

Old Mission Peninsula Wine country. A great place to photograph your Wedding party at any one of your favorite Winery’s on the Old Mission Peninsula.

Holly & Dan / Nov 13th, 2010 / Traverse City, Mi & Honor, MI

Holly & Dan / Nov 13th, 2010 / Traverse City & Honor, MI

Holly & Dan / Nov 13th, 2010 / Traverse City & Honor,MI

Holly & Dan / Nov 13th, 2010 / Traverse City & Honor,MI

Holly & Dan / Nov 13th, 2010 / Traverse City & Honor MI

Nov 13th ends the season with a fall Wedding on the shores of Grand Traverse Bay on the Old Mission Peninsula. (33) Weddings, (5) Engagements, (4) Family Reunions. Looking forward to the new adventures in the 2011 Wedding season.

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Engagement Proposals

Last weekend on Mackinac Island Mi, I had the opportunity to photography a very special wedding engagement proposal.  Steve called me prior to the date to set up this fantastic start to his new life with his sole mate.  We spent a little time planing and brainstorming on the phone then on May 30th, two hours before the photo shoot,  Steve and I staked out the site opportunities for set up.  His girlfriend had no idea that Steve had anything up his sleeve and that pictures were being taken,  “we were just going to have a glass of wine out by the water” that turned into champagne and was the start of the proposal.  Both sides of there family’s knew he was going to propose.  Just not the bride to be.

By this time there were many lookers on wondering if something was going to happen.  The excitement begins.

It’s really happening.  It took a while to get to this point.  Steve’s goes down on his knee.  Here we go!

An absolute blast. The opportunity to capture such a special moment in two peoples lives.

The anticipation .

I think she said “YES”.

The kiss you never forget.

The gig is up.  See that camera and the photographer over on the dock .

“Sole mates”.  Smiling memories and just so happens, a freighter in the straights of Mackinac.

I say the freighter is good luck wishes to the happy couple.

I am so excited for this couple and feel honored to have been a small part of the beginning of their engagement.  It was truly a photo shoot I will never forget.  I wish them a lifetime of fun together.

The magic of Mackinac Island is always happening around you.  Doesn’t matter where your at, it matters what is in your heart.  Anyone can pull off special moments just like this.   Just a little time and thought into your endeavors can put smiles on many faces.

For me, I’m ready to photograph any event for a life time of smiles and memories.


Wedding Cakes

Wedding cakes can be a wonderful, exciting, colorful and magical addition to your special day.  I will capture not only the cake cutting but all your additional joys, many of them I hope to be surprises you will cherish the rest of your life.   Below are samples of a few Wedding cakes I have photographed through the years and some history of the “Wedding Cake”

One of my favorite Pastry Chief’s, Kim Sperl, her work is below.

Kim can be contacted at Bella e Dolce   /   231-625-8232

Exquisite Cakes & Pastries

http://www.bellaedolce.com

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Biography

The past  30 years I have been working to develop a unique appreciation for the real nature of life, which has incorporated my own style of Photojournalistic Photography.

As an entertainer in my younger years I have had the opportunity to meet with many personalities and I find most of us are positive and want to be happy.  I bring these experiences every time I go for my camera.   As a member of the ISP (International Society of Photography), I have been honored with two awards in 2003 and 2005 in Washington D.C., for best achievement in Outdoor Photography.  My passion for Wedding Photography is a passion of love and creativity that captures your images for a lifetime.  As a skilled photojournalist, I will capture your  story as it unfolds naturally,  capture every moment you expect, and even some you don’t.  If you are looking for the pure essence of artistically creative photography, this  my forte.

Your wedding day is one of the most significant days of your life. Once the guests have left and dress packed away, your photos will be a connection to your friends, family, and most importantly, your love for each other. Steven Blair has captured thousands of special moments in a relaxed and professional manner.

“My camera is an extension of my personality and the poetry of the moment.

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Grand Hotel Weddings

“The Grand Hotel” on Mackinac Island.

Begin your lives together surrounded by romance.

The fact that you arrive on Mackinac Island by boat or plane starts your Wedding day in a special way.

Mackinac Island is forever romantic.  This is a landscape characterized by high limestone bluffs, beautiful bodies of great lakes water, vibrant forests, flower gardens, turtles, and mystical geological formations.  Elegant hotels, fine restaurants, and even horse and buggy transportation  further enhance this romantic atmosphere. It’s not surprising that the classic romance “Somewhere in Time” was filmed on Mackinac Island.  Begin your lives together on Mackinac Island, a place where, according to the Ojibwa and Odawa  Indian Tribes, “Life first began”.  Your Destination Wedding is waiting for you on Mackinac Island at the “Grand Hotel”.

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Notice: After 22 years and over 900 weddings I am retiring from the wedding industry. If there are any bride and groom's that are still considering purchasing their copyrights to their pictures. Please message me or email info@photosbyblair.com and pass this on. It has been a "Spactabulas" amazing adventure and I met so many beautiful & wonderful people on my journey photographing one of many special days of your lives. I'm humbled to have had this opportunity to be a part of your special day. I will continue to sell my freelance work online & on Facebook. Another chapter with magical, music memories from beautiful Mackinac Island, MI. To all my family and friends, I miss you all so much. PL&H.