Sailing Into Forever: The Engagement of Lilli & Max in Saugatuck, Michigan

Lilli and Max’s engagement session was the perfect blend of timeless romance, effortless style and meaningful moments—set against the dreamy backdrop of Lake Michigan’s shore. The couple first met at Aquinas College through mutual friends, and their connection only deepened from there. When it came time for Max to propose, he kept things intimate and heartfelt. Lilli arrived home from work to find him waiting in their living room, dressed in a suit and ready to pop the biggest question. The celebration continued with a surprise dinner at Leo’s in downtown Grand Rapids alongside their parents, making the moment even more special!

The ring itself is just as thoughtful as the proposal. While Max ultimately designed it, Lilli shared her vision for a Trinity—or Trilogy—style ring, symbolizing the past, present and future. Max brought that idea to life with a stunning three-stone emerald-cut engagement ring set in white gold with a yellow gold band. Lilli recalls "I fell in love with it, when I saw it!"

Choosing the right photographer took time, but when Lilli discovered Shirley’s work, the decision was clear. She was drawn to her timeless, elegant style, knowing it was the perfect match for the vision they had in mind. For the location, Lilli shared her love of the water and beach, initially imagining a session on a family boat. Shirley elevated the idea by sourcing a sailboat in Saugatuck, Michigan—an idea Lilli and Max immediately embraced. The result was a truly unforgettable experience, capturing their love amid open water, soft breezes and golden light!

Their three outfits were carefully chosen to reflect the setting and the mood of the day. Lilli’s white dress paired with Max’s khakis and linen shirt felt classic and perfectly suited for a day on the boat. A colorful dress—purchased on a previous trip to Saugatuck—added a playful, personal touch, while their final looks leaned into a relaxed, laid-back vibe, reminiscent of an evening cruise with a glass of wine in hand!

As they look ahead to their wedding, Lilli and Max found themselves balancing tradition with their own personal style. Ultimately, they decided on a Catholic church ceremony surrounded by their closest family and friends, followed by a celebration filled with dancing and joy. While wedding planning has come with its fair share of ups and downs, the major pieces fell into place quickly, and the rest of the details are coming together with intention and care!

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