A Simple Modern Wedding at the Grand Rapids Downtown Market in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Ellen Deuparo (27 and a physician assistant) and Patrick Fink (28 and a physician assistant) met at Michigan State University in 2006. After asking him to a sorority event, the two dated ever since. Due to Ellen's love for horses, Patrick ever-so-slyly proposed to her on a cold April's day underneath a horse statue at a Frederick Meijer Gardens. Because they both love to eat and shop at their local market, The Grand Rapids Downtown Market was a perfect fit. It also was great inspiration for their simple industrial theme through the venue's exposed metal and wood beams throughout, as well as the floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of the surrounding city and architecture. To contrast against the edgier elements, the couple chose a neutral color palette of white, green, and light gray seen throughout the floral arrangements and fashion of the wedding party. Ellen's wedding dress captured her attention through the clean lines and sleek fit of the fabric. It also happened to be a bridesmaid dress, which saved a huge chunk of money from their budget! After the ceremony, a Scottish bagpiper played and escorted the newlyweds down the aisle, a tradition in Patrick's family. The reception area greeted the guests with a choice of either mint infused non-alcoholic iced tea or rosemary infused lemonade with vodka while they found their seats as the DJ played classic R&B. Dinner served delicious salads and soups while the main course consisted of a french-cut oven roasted chicken breast with Michigan cherry chutney, fresh vegetable medley and a cheesy potato tart. The wedding cake was both a chocolate cake with dark chocolate mousse and a white cake with lemon curd filling and raspberries. "We wanted our love and bond to shine, and we accomplished that by focusing on three simple things: Great food, great drinks, and great music," says Ellen.