By Nick Lico / Photography by Savannah Camaj
Although Haley and Ryan Lienau grew up only a few miles apart, they didn’t meet until they were attending Central Michigan University in fall of 2016.
“We ran into each other on campus and struck up a conversation. We were basically inseparable from then on,” Haley explained. The couple, wine aficionados, formalized their union at Youngblood Vineyard on July 22, 2023. “We got the full vineyard experience close to home,” Haley said.
“From the first day we went there, we instantly knew that’s where we wanted to get married. We didn’t want to look anywhere else,” Ryan added.
Completed in 2023, the indoor event venue at the vineyard features floor-to-cathedral-ceiling windows, resulting in spectacular views of the vineyard and farm. The view inside is just as stunning.
“The interior is finished in beetle-killed pine for a really pretty and unique coloring. We have polished concrete floors that look like glass, 40 pendant lights that hang from the ceiling, three independent salon stations and a gorgeous bar. The overall result is a rustic, industrial look,” said Jessica Youngblood.
“Youngblood Vineyard has done a great job decorating the wedding venue. It feels like an Up North vineyard without the drive. Our guests told us that ours was one of the most fun weddings they’ve ever been to,” Haley stated. The guests weren’t the only ones having fun.
“Typically, people say your wedding day is stressful and usually the guests enjoy it more than the bride and groom. However, that was not the case for us. We drank, danced and laughed with our guests all night,” Ryan added. “It was the only venue we visited for our wedding. It was stress-free. We were fully confident in Jess’ ability to handle everything,” Haley said.
Local Vendors:
Venue: Youngblood Vineyard, Ray Township
Catering: Zio’s Catering, Washington Township
Band: DJ- Ground Zero Productions, Macomb
Photography: Savannah Camaj, Savannah With A Camera