Greencrest Manor

July has been our month of rest. Well, trying to rest. We took July off and sometimes people wonder what we do when we get any time off. The truth is, while we get some calm days, we are still trying to grow as professionals.

On July 23rd, Haley, Jourdan, and I booked a trip to Greencrest Manor in Battle Creek, Michigan. They hosted a lovely event; Gather & Grow for event professionals.

Although we aren’t photographers or vendors, Jourdan saw it as a great opportunity to meet new vendors and get to know other professionals in this business.

The day consisted of many, “oh girls! Let me get a photo of you here!” Fortunately, they know me too well by now and oblige.

Our jaws were on the floor as we entered the property. It was its own little oasis of flowers and greenery that surrounded a beautiful French chateau. We were greeted at the door with mimosas and parasails to tame the heat from the sun. The parasails were not only useful, but made the event feel so elegant!

The girls and I explored the chateau as we waited for more guests to arrive. Every detail and every inch of this home was well-thought out and decorated with intention.

Each room had its own unique theme and color palette. We admired all the antiques and eclectic pieces incorporated into every space.

We had the opportunity to introduce ourselves to other wedding and event vendors and get to know more about them and what they offer. It’s not often that we get to chat with other venue owners, although we were one of the few venues at the event.

One of our favorite conversations was with Jenn, the owner of Greencrest Manor. Her evident success in this business has no bearing on her kindness and humility— the three of us were just so impressed with her and all she has done on her property. Her heart of gratitude, I believe, is what makes this place as great as it is.

We continued our tour outside and admired all the flowers and unique spaces around the yard. Jenn gathered everyone to the front door where we took a group picture and some drone footage— super fun!

The whole group headed to their other property in Marshall, The Millhaven.

We were directed to The Greenhouse for some snacks, beverages, and fellowship.

Shortly after, our group moved to The Pickle Factory for lunch. Everyone appeared to be floored by the sight of this grand room. One long table stretched across with enough room for all 76 of us, decorated in candles, gorgeous linens, and exquisite tableware.

Everyone stopped in their tracks to snag some photos of the table before settling in. Jourdan, Haley, and I admired the bar and chic furniture and had a few more warm, insightful conversations.

Once all were seated, Jenn gave a heart-warming and inspirational speech and prayer that brought a few tears to our eyes. We just love her!

She introduced us to the chef, who curated a very special Spanish cuisine for us. Long story short: Exquisite. Divine. Phenomenal. 10/10.

As our evening wrapped up, we couldn’t help but to reflect on how grateful we are to be in this business. Along the lines of what Jenn stated in her speech, weekends look much different for us than many of our friends, which can be a bit challenging, but we wouldn’t trade it for anything.

To our readers: thank you for being here and thank you for every time you visit us, engage with us, and trust us with life’s most precious moments. At the risk of sounding corny, we couldn’t do it without your support.

We would like to say a special thank-you to Jenn and her phenomenal team at Modern Day for their hospitality.

— J.S.