A Jewish-Muslim Fall Elopement in the Forests of Michigan
Umbreen (she/her) and Jules (she/her) chose to elope at a place that already felt like home – a family cottage tucked into the woods of Northern Michigan. Surrounded by fall color and the people who’ve shaped their lives, they spent the weekend blending Jewish and Muslim traditions, sharing meals on the apple farm, and saying their vows beneath a handmade chuppah. It was intimate, layered, and full of meaning – the kind of celebration built from the ground up, with love and intention in every detail.
What made you decide to elope rather than plan a big wedding?
We actually did start planning a bigger wedding. But it quickly became clear that we were planning for everyone else. Every decision felt like a negotiation. We wanted to strip it all back to what mattered: our relationship, our commitment, and the people who’ve helped us get here. Eloping gave us space to be present. The ceremony felt like a sacred moment, not a production.
Where did you elope, and why was that place meaningful?
We got married at Jules’ late grandparents’ cottage in Bellaire, Michigan. It’s a really grounding place for us, full of family memories, fresh air, and so much history. It’s where we slow down and reconnect. Jules grew up coming here, and Umbreen’s family now lives nearby, so it’s woven into both of our lives.
Nature is a big part of our spirituality too, so being outside, surrounded by fall color and fresh air, felt like the only choice.
What was the vibe of the wedding weekend?
The whole weekend was about merging our families and traditions. On Friday we had a big feast on Umbreen’s parents’ apple farm and celebrated Shabbat together. There was a sari dress-up party, hikes in the woods, a pizza night with Gozney ovens, and lots of time laughing and lounging under pine trees.
On the wedding day, we wrote vows on top of Schuss Mountain and had our ceremony under a handcrafted chuppah by Forrest Hudes. We blended Hindu, Muslim and Jewish traditions, with both of our families involved in officiating. Our friends made everything: bouquets, a hand-painted ketubah, a chuppah quilt, and a ceremonial rug and tallit created by Kayla Powers.
The florals, including our bouquets and marigold garlands, were created by Willa Rose Floral and added the most vibrant, grounded touch to the outdoor setting.
What did you wear and how did you choose your outfits?
Umbreen wore a dress made from her late grandmother’s silk sari, which felt deeply grounding and ancestral. She was adorned with jewelry and bangles by her parents, sister, and cousin in a quiet moment that helped everything feel real. Her wedding shoes were from Lucchese, blending rustic practicality with timeless style.
Jules leaned into texture and warmth with a cozy fall palette. Their wedding rings were from Jenni Stuart Fine Jewelry, chosen for their artisan design and timeless feel.
Any favorite memories from the day itself?
Too many. But a few highlights: our private first look, crying-laughing through family speeches, and the golf cart send-off under the stars. Jules made our wedding cake from scratch (coconut and guava, yum!), and after dinner, we cut it before riding off into the pine-scented night.
The reception meal was prepared with love by Gabe’s Old Fashioned and The Dixboro Project, and we’re still thinking about the butter chicken, tea cake, and pizza from the night before.
We ate dinner surrounded by candlelight and tablescapes styled with rentals from Eclectic Elegance, who helped us bring the cozy, layered dinner table vision to life.
How did your community support your decision to elope?
Honestly, they were amazing. We were worried it would be hard for folks who couldn’t be there, but one of Umbreen’s best friends coordinated handwritten letters from around the world that she opened the morning of the wedding. It was such a grounding reminder of how loved we are, even from afar.
Looking back, would you do anything differently?
Not a thing. It was exactly what we needed. Intimate, intentional, and full of belly laughs. We’re so glad we followed our guts.
Do you have any advice for other couples thinking about eloping?
Focus on what matters to you, not what’s expected. Set a clear intention for the day or weekend, and let that guide your decisions. And if you’re lucky enough to have a creative, loving community, let them in. They’ll show up in ways you can’t even imagine.
Photography by Kari Paine
Catering Gabe’s Old Fashioned & The Dixboro Project
Chuppah Forrest Hudes
Florals Willa Rose Floral
Rental & Decor Eclectic Elegance
Shoes Lucchese
Tallit & Rug Kayla Powers
Wedding Rings Jenni Stuart Fine Jewelry
