Mariah & Mitchell’s Romantic Summer Wedding at The Wilds Venue: A Family-Focused Celebration
Mariah & Mitchell’s Romantic Summer Wedding at The Wilds Venue: A Family-Focused Celebration
Some couples start as clients and weave their way into your heart, becoming family along the journey—Mariah and Mitchell are exactly that. As the owner of Heck Designs and Photography, I’ve captured over 400 weddings, but their 2025 summer celebration at The Wilds Venue in Bloomington, IN, was pure magic. From our first consultation to the 4th of July rehearsal dinner at their home, their warmth, laughter, and genuine love transformed them into lifelong friends. Their day radiated romance, family unity, and joy, centered around their three incredible kids—Farrah, Lincoln, and Leilani.
Join me as we relive their unforgettable Bloomington IN wedding, share their creative love story, and offer inspiration for your own family-focused celebration. As your Nashville Wedding Photographer serving couples worldwide, I’m thrilled to showcase their day and spark ideas for yours. Let’s dive into Mariah and Mitchell’s timeless love story!
A Love Story Sparked by Art
Mariah and Mitchell’s romance began five years ago through a mutual friend and a shared passion for creativity. After moving back from Colorado, Mariah, a dynamic professional in fiber internet sales operations, commissioned Mitchell—a gifted artist and Director of Sales at AdviseBloom—for a custom artwork. That collaboration blossomed into a deep connection, fueled by Mitchell’s selfless, passionate spirit and their mutual admiration. Now, with their blended family of three—Farrah (14), Lincoln (13), and Leilani (10)—their home’s living room is a sanctuary of “joy, completion, and unity,” as Mariah beautifully puts it. Their wedding was a vibrant celebration of this bond, filled with heartfelt moments and infectious laughter.
The Wilds Venue: Rustic Romance in Bloomington
Nestled at 6483 E Kent Rd, Bloomington, IN, The Wilds Wedding and Event Venue was the perfect canvas for Mariah and Mitchell’s romantic vision. Its rolling hills, lush greenery, and rustic pavilion blended elegance with warmth, making it an ideal Bloomington IN wedding venue. The couple got ready on-site, infusing the day with relaxed excitement, while the summer light bathed the ceremony in a golden glow—pure magic for Nashville Wedding Photographer shots.
Venue Highlights
Ceremony Space: Outdoor lawn with sweeping greenery, framing heartfelt vows with natural beauty.
Reception Area: Cozy indoor pavilion, ideal for dancing and mingling under warm, twinkling lights.
Ambiance: Rustic yet refined, with wooded surroundings that shine in golden-hour photos (see our golden hour guide).
Accessibility: Spacious grounds with accessible paths, though some areas may need coordination for mobility needs.
Image Alt Text: “Nashville Wedding Photographer captures The Wilds Venue ceremony in Bloomington, IN.”
Heartfelt Moments: First Looks and Family Unity
Mariah and Mitchell’s day was brimming with emotional highlights, starting with their first looks. Mariah’s tearful reveal with her bridesmaids—Sacquia (matron of honor), Cathy (maid of honor), Nadia, Ashley, Farrah (junior bridesmaid), and Leilani (flower girl)—set a joyful tone. Mitchell’s warm moment with his groomsmen—Marc “Bean” (best man), Jacob “Box,” Jai “Bravo,” Bryan “B,” and Lincoln (junior groomsman)—was equally heartfelt. First looks with their parents brought tears and laughter, grounding the day in family love.
The ceremony, officiated by Gary Stoll, was a tearjerker, with vows exchanged under The Wilds’ greenery. The reception kicked off with a lively entrance, followed by a delicious spread from One World Bakery, tender parent dances, and a dance floor that never stopped, thanks to DJ Cruz Control. A sparkler exit capped the night, creating a starry, romantic farewell.
Combining Families: A Sweet Note
Mariah and Mitchell’s wedding was a beautiful celebration of their blended family, bringing together their kids—Farrah, Lincoln, and Leilani—and their parents with love and care. With thoughtful attention to family dynamics, we captured joyful moments that reflected their unity, from playful kid shots to tender embraces with parents and stepparents. These photos are a testament to their legacy—a family woven together by love, laughter, and shared dreams. Image Alt Text: “Nashville Wedding Photographer captures Mariah and Mitchell’s blended family at The Wilds.”
Vendor Spotlight: Bringing the Magic to Life
Mariah and Mitchell’s talented vendors elevated their day, proving that love and great people create a perfect wedding:
Officiant: Gary Stoll, delivering a heartfelt ceremony
Hair: Carrie Monroe, styling Mariah’s radiant look
Makeup: Anna Deckard, enhancing natural beauty
Catering: One World Bakery, serving a delicious feast
DJ: DJ Cruz Control, fueling an electric dance floor
Jeweler: Rogers and Holland, crafting timeless rings
Without a coordinator or florist, their day flowed seamlessly—a testament to their community’s support. For vendor tips, see our vendor email templates.
Photography Highlights: Romantic, Timeless Captures
Mariah and Mitchell’s love for romantic, emotive photos guided our approach. The Wilds’ rustic charm offered endless opportunities for Nashville Wedding Photographer magic:
First Looks: Mariah’s tearful moment with her bridesmaids and Mitchell’s warm exchange with his groomsmen, captured in soft summer light.
Ceremony: Vows under the lawn’s greenery, with golden-hour light casting a dreamy glow (see our seasonal guide).
Family Moments: Playful shots of Farrah, Lincoln, and Leilani, plus tender family portraits, showcasing their unity.
Reception: First dance and parent dances in the pavilion, with candid, high-energy shots fueled by DJ Cruz Control.
Sparkler Exit: A starry farewell, perfect for romantic, cinematic captures.
Mitchell’s passionate spirit and Mariah’s joyful energy shone in every frame, from adoring glances to playful kid moments. Image Alt Text: “Nashville Wedding Photographer captures Mariah and Mitchell’s sparkler exit at The Wilds.”
Tips for Your Romantic, Family-Centered Wedding
Inspired by Mariah and Mitchell’s day? Here are tips to plan your own Bloomington IN wedding:
Embrace First Looks: Include bridesmaids, groomsmen, and parents for emotional, photogenic moments before the ceremony.
Celebrate Family Unity: Capture blended families with sensitivity to dynamics for heartfelt shots that last a lifetime.
Choose a Versatile Venue: The Wilds’ outdoor-indoor mix suits family-focused events year-round.
Add Personal Touches: Include kids as junior bridesmaids or groomsmen, like Farrah and Lincoln, for joyful moments.
Work with Trusted Vendors: A tight-knit vendor team ensures a seamless day, just like Mariah and Mitchell’s.
For more ideas, explore our engagement session tips.
Final Thoughts: From Clients to Forever Friends
Mariah and Mitchell’s wedding at The Wilds Venue was a radiant celebration of love, family, and new beginnings. From clients to cherished friends, their kindness and vibrant spirit made their day unforgettable. Their families welcomed me like one of their own, from the 4th of July rehearsal dinner to the sparkler exit, reminding me why I love being a Nashville Wedding Photographer. At Heck Designs, we’re passionate about turning moments into legacies, just like Mariah and Mitchell’s.
Ready to plan your own Bloomington IN wedding or Nashville wedding? Book a consultation at www.heckdesignsandphotography.com to create timeless photos that tell your story. What’s your favorite wedding moment? Share in the comments!
Keywords: Nashville Wedding Photographer, Bloomington IN wedding venues, The Wilds Venue wedding photos, romantic family wedding, Mariah and Mitchell wedding
Published October 22, 2025
