A Surprise Poolside Wedding with Vows from the Heart
Imagine this: a sun-kissed day, the gentle ripple of water in the background, and the joyful laughter of your closest friends. They think they’re just here for a casual summer hangout by the pool. Little do they know, the day holds something much more magical—a surprise wedding! You and your partner, dressed in relaxed but elegant poolside attire, are about to turn an ordinary day into one of the most memorable moments of your lives. Officiated by the warm and welcoming Nichole Bertucci of A Simple I Do, this is your moment to declare your love in a way that’s true to you.

The Charm of an Intimate Poolside Wedding
The beauty of a surprise wedding lies in its spontaneity and intimacy. Poolside weddings, especially, have a laid-back yet elegant vibe that makes everyone feel comfortable. The relaxed setting lets your love take center stage—without the pressure of a large, formal event. Imagine exchanging vows with the shimmering water as your backdrop, surrounded by the people who mean the most to you.
A poolside setting also brings versatility. You can keep it casual with fun and colorful décor, or elevate the scene with elegant floral arrangements and soft lighting as the sun begins to set. It’s an outdoor space that’s personal and unique, giving you the freedom to create an experience that matches your vision.

Saying Your Own Vows: A Touch of Personalization
For many couples, the most memorable part of the ceremony is exchanging vows. Writing your own vows adds a layer of intimacy and personal touch to the wedding. These are the words that come straight from your heart, reflecting your unique journey as a couple. Whether you keep it light and humorous or deep and emotional, saying your own vows is an opportunity to express what your love means in your own voice.
Nichole Bertucci understands how important this moment is and knows how to create the perfect atmosphere for it. With years of experience as a wedding officiant, she knows how to guide the ceremony with warmth, ensuring that every word resonates with you and your guests. Whether you’re nervous or excited, Nichole has a way of making you feel at ease while still honoring the significance of the moment.

The Role of Wedding Officiant Nichole Bertucci
When you choose Nichole Bertucci of A Simple I Do to officiate your wedding, you’re choosing someone who genuinely cares about your love story. Nichole is known for her personalized approach, making each ceremony as unique as the couple she’s marrying. With her at the helm, your poolside wedding will be heartfelt, meaningful, and tailored exactly to what you envision.
For a surprise wedding, having an officiant like Nichole is key. She’s great at rolling with the unexpected and keeping the focus on the celebration of love. Her calm demeanor helps put everyone at ease, especially since surprise weddings can be full of excitement and a bit of suspense!

A Day to Remember with Your Closest Friends
The joy of a surprise wedding is in the reactions of your loved ones. As you stand hand in hand, ready to say your vows, your guests will be filled with emotion—excitement, happiness, and even a few happy tears. Your closest friends will be there to share in this intimate, joyful moment, making it even more special.
After the ceremony, you’ll be able to celebrate in true poolside fashion. Picture an afternoon of laughter, toasts, and perhaps even a quick dip in the pool. It’s a wedding that’s less about tradition and more about celebrating your love in a way that feels authentic to you.

A Unique and Unforgettable Wedding Experience
For couples who want something different, a surprise poolside wedding is the perfect way to turn an ordinary day into something extraordinary. It’s fun, intimate, and personal—everything you could want for your big day. With Nichole Bertucci as your officiant, you’ll have the support and care you need to make the day flow seamlessly, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.
So, if you're dreaming of a wedding that's laid-back but full of love, consider surprising your friends with a poolside ceremony, writing your own vows, and letting Nichole Bertucci bring your vision to life. It’s the perfect recipe for a truly unforgettable day.


speical thank you to the happy couple Cynthia and Scott for allowing me to stand with you and suprise your friends with the very best news! 


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Celebrate Your Love at Independence Oaks County Park’s Twin Chimney Site with Nichole Bertucci of A Simple I Do
When you’re planning your wedding, finding the right location and the perfect officiant are two of the most important decisions you’ll make. If you’re looking for a serene outdoor setting in Michigan and a wedding officiant who truly understands your love story, then Independence Oaks County Park’s Twin Chimney site and Nichole Bertucci of A Simple I Do Wedding Officiants are the ideal combination.
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A Picturesque Setting at Independence Oaks County ParkIndependence Oaks County Park, nestled in the heart of Oakland County, is one of Michigan’s hidden gems for outdoor weddings. The park spans over 1,200 acres and features a variety of scenic spots, but the Twin Chimney site stands out as a particularly enchanting location.
Located near the shimmering shores of Crooked Lake, the Twin Chimney site offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and natural beauty. As its name suggests, the site is marked by two historic chimneys that add a unique, picturesque backdrop to your ceremony. Imagine saying your vows with the warm, timeless stone structures behind you and the lush greenery all around. The area is secluded enough to provide an intimate atmosphere, yet it’s easily accessible, making it convenient for your guests.

Whether you envision a small, intimate gathering or a slightly larger affair, the Twin Chimney site accommodates both. The open space allows for flexible seating arrangements and décor options, ensuring that your wedding day is just as you’ve imagined.

Nichole Bertucci: A Wedding Officiant Who Gets YouThe location is only half the equation. Your wedding officiant is the person who will guide you through one of the most significant moments of your life. That’s where Nichole Bertucci of A Simple I Do Wedding Officiants comes in. Nichole is more than just an officiant—she’s a storyteller who takes the time to get to know you and your partner, ensuring that your ceremony reflects who you are as a couple.
With years of experience officiating weddings throughout Michigan, Nichole has developed a reputation for her warmth, professionalism, and ability to personalize each ceremony she performs. She understands that no two couples are alike, and she prides herself on creating a ceremony that is uniquely yours. Whether you’re looking for something traditional, modern, or a blend of both, Nichole will work with you to craft a ceremony that speaks to your relationship and your future together.

Why Choose Nichole Bertucci and Twin Chimney?Combining Nichole Bertucci’s expertise with the natural beauty of the Twin Chimney site creates a wedding experience that is both memorable and meaningful. Here’s why this duo is a match made in heaven:

• Personalized Ceremonies: Nichole takes the time to understand your story, your values, and your vision for your wedding day. She’s known for her ability to create ceremonies that feel personal and authentic, capturing the essence of your relationship.
• Beautiful Location: The Twin Chimney site at Independence Oaks County Park offers a stunning natural backdrop for your wedding. The historic chimneys add a touch of rustic elegance, making your ceremony both visually and emotionally striking.
• Stress-Free Experience: Nichole’s calm and reassuring presence helps to alleviate any pre-wedding jitters. She’s there to guide you every step of the way, ensuring that your ceremony runs smoothly and that you can focus on what truly matters—celebrating your love.
• Versatility: Whether you’re planning a large gathering or an intimate elopement, Nichole is flexible and accommodating. The Twin Chimney site is similarly versatile, allowing you to design the ceremony setup that best fits your needs.

Creating Unforgettable MemoriesYour wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and it should reflect the unique love you share. By choosing Nichole Bertucci as your officiant and the Twin Chimney site as your venue, you’re setting the stage for a day that you and your guests will remember for years to come.

Independence Oaks County Park offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and rustic charm, while Nichole brings her expertise, warmth, and personal touch to your ceremony. Together, they create a wedding experience that is not only beautiful but deeply meaningful.

If you’re ready to start planning your dream wedding at the Twin Chimney site, reach out to Nichole Bertucci of A Simple I Do. With her guidance, your ceremony will be everything you’ve hoped for and more, set against the breathtaking backdrop of one of Michigan’s most scenic locations.

Start Your Journey TodayTo begin your journey to a perfect wedding day, contact Nichole Bertucci and explore what Independence Oaks County Park has to offer. With her at your side, you’ll be able to enjoy a stress-free, personalized ceremony in a setting that’s as beautiful as your love story.

Officiant: Nichole Bertucci, A Simple I Do 
Location: Independence Oaks, Twim Chimney, Clarkston MI 
Photographer: ​Brittany Ritter Photography

Getting married at The Oakley in Holly Michigan is a rural dream come true. 

According to The Oakley in Holly; WE BUILD MEMORIES. 

​Wow your guests by hosting the event of a lifetime at The Oakley. There is no venue quite like ours - enjoy the quiet calmness of the secluded property with the high end finishes in the venue. Located within minutes of delicious food and unique shops in Holly and Fenton, this is a destination you won't want to miss!

The McKay Estate was built in 1990 on 40 acres of beautiful rolling hills near the quaint village of Holly, Michigan. Many mornings have been enjoyed on this front porch over small talk and coffee. Now, we wish to share this amazing property with you! We have been working hard since December 2016 to bring you The Oakley!

Working with the venue owners of The Oakley in Holly is any wedding vendors dream. They take such great care, leaving no detail untouched. 

From the moment I arrive I am greeted by the owners themselves. Each couple is handled with care and deep concern for their happiness. The owners and their staff are attentive, kind and always smiling, they must really love their job. 

Officiating ceremonies at the Oakley is a dream. Alicia and staff are on top of seating guests, lining up the processional and making sure each person is sent down the aisle at just the right time. When they open the doors to the aisle all eyes turn to the perfect backdrop of the double doors and covered porch. 

At the end of the aisle you are always welcome to bring your own decor, arch, flowers or anything that suites your wedding ceremony dreams. 

Once the ceremony is over we go back indoors to sign your marriage license in the beautifully appointed getting ready suite. And from there on you are ushered through your cocktail hour, reception and late night dancing by the owners, staff and your dream team of hired wedding professionals. 

Florist: Fleur and Bloom
DJ: Michael’s Entertainment, Richard Summersett
Photographer: Spencer Penfield
Violinist: Shawn Boucke
Officiant: Nichole Bertucci, A Simple I Do Wedding Officiants
Venue: Shepherds Hollow Golf and Banquet, Clarkston Michigan 


Kevin and Lindsey got married on a bright and sunny day in April of 2024 at Shepherds Hollow Golf Course and Banquets. 

Let's start with the venue, Shephards Hollow of Clarkston: Exchanging your vows is a moment you'll remember for the rest of your life. Our team wants to make this moment truly magical for you. Your guests will be ushered in to our fountain area with an incredible view of the pines. You will walk down the aisle for all your guests to see and you and your love will say “I do” amidst the pine trees.
 
The Inclusions
In addition to the gorgeous private space to exchange your vows, our team will be on hand to assist you and your bridal party down the aisle. 100 white padded folding chairs are included with your ceremony. Additional chairs are available for $5 each. The Shepherd's Hollow team will take care of all set up and tear down.
 
Rehearsal Services
A member of our events team will schedule and coordinate a ceremony rehearsal for you the week of your wedding. Rehearsals take 30 minutes and a member of our events team is on hand to execute this with your officiant. These are scheduled two months prior to your wedding.
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Bridal Suite
Enjoy the privacy and elegance of our luxurious bridal suite as you get ready on your wedding day. The space features five styling stations for hair and make up, comfortable seating, ample closet space and a private terrace overlooking the pines. Suite rental includes cheese & crackers, fruit and mini sandwiches for your bridal party, along with a complimentary bottle of champagne. The Bridal Suite is available for brides having their ceremony and reception on-site only. Rental of the space is $1500. The space would be available for 5 hour prior to your ceremony and is only available pre-ceremony. Should you be interested in additional time to get ready, an added cost per hour would apply. 
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Pricing
Wedding Ceremonies start at $2500 and are available only when your reception is held on-site. 
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Seasons
We offer wedding ceremonies here across all seasons. Outdoor ceremonies are an option even during the winter months at the client's preference. It's magical here when it snows and can create a beautiful experience for you and your guests. Should you prefer, we also offer an option for indoor ceremony in the winter months. 

Now onto the couple's ceremony details. We began their ceremony by welcoming their guests and then asking folks to refrain from taking photos during their ceremony, this is an important aspect as you truly want your guests shining smiles in your photos instead of their phones covering their faces. 

We talked about their love story, how they met, their first date and encounters and of course their proposal story. They exchanged vows and rings and then closed with a kiss and a very happy walk back down the aisle. 

I was happy to lead them through the process of creating a great ceremony for them and then of course sharing that ceremony with their guests in a way that invited them in and held them captive until the end. 

Check out these sneak peaks from Spencer

Perform a perfect intimate ceremony at the Foundation Hotel in Detroit? When my friend and one of my favorite photographers Shelby of Monnette Co reached out to me to ask if I would participate in an elopement giveaway the yes was fast and easy! 

Joey and Kayla were the winners of a contest Shelby held to giveaway an intimate wedding at the Detroit Foundation Hotel. I was thrilled to write a custom wedding ceremony script for them and to work with them to curate the perfect ceremony. 

In March of 2024 I met them at the Foundation Hotel in Detroit where we took off down the aisle and performed the custom ceremony we had worked on together. After the ceremony we signed their marriage license to make it legal and then they were off for photos and the perfect intimate dinner at the Detroit Foundation Hotel and Apparatus Room. 

Photos by: Shelby of Monnette Co
Venue: Detroit Foundation Hotel and Apparatus Room 
Planner: Samantha Whole Hearted Events
Florals: Blum Floral 
Hair and Makeup: Gals and Ghouls 
Officiant: NICHOLE BERTUCCI, A Simple I Do 

What is an intimate wedding? 
Intimate weddings or elopements are small gatherings for your wedding ceremony and celebration. Once thought of as the two of you running away in secrecy to marry is now replaced with the notion of simply the required 2 witnesses or a small gathering of 20 or less guests. Your elopement or intimate wedding can include a ceremony only or a hosted meal to celebrate afterwards. The idea of your intimate or elopement wedding ceremony is to keep it stress free on both you and your wallet. Hosting a smaller wedding allows you to truly focus on the intent of the day, marrying the love of your life and celebrating that love. 

Why you should consider an intimate wedding ceremony or elopement? 
Hosting a smaller wedding ceremony allows you to spend less money all while focusing on your love. Not only will you save money on food, drink and venue and florals but you'll be able to bring together the elements that really matter to you. With a smaller guest count you may be able to book the venue of your dreams and host a weekday wedding ceremony or buy the extravagant florals you dreamed of because you simply need fewer of them. And of course having fewer guests really makes the moment intimate and all about the two of you. 

Where can you host your intimate or elopement style wedding ceremony? 
Many wedding venues host smaller events but I reccomend considering a day time or weekday booking for this. Here at A Simple I Do we offer 3 private studios for rent that are perfect for your smaller wedding ceremony. 

Nestled in the heart of Detroit, amidst the vibrant streets and cultural essence, lies the Shinola Hotel—a haven of elegance and charm that encapsulates the essence of the city. Its classic architecture and modern flair provide an idyllic backdrop for the celebration of love and union. Recently, the hotel played host to a wedding ceremony that resonated with simplicity, authenticity, and the beauty of Michigan's wedding traditions.
The allure of a Michigan wedding is in its blend of contemporary style and timeless traditions. When it comes to the union of two souls, it's not just about the venue; it's about the moments woven into the tapestry of the day. At the Shinola Hotel, every corner exudes sophistication, offering a picturesque setting for the declaration of everlasting love.
As the couples exchanged vows and promises, wedding officiant Nichole Bertucci from 'A Simple I Do Wedding Officiants' added an air of warmth and intimacy to the ceremony. With words carefully chosen and sentiments crafted to reflect the uniqueness of the couple, the officiant served as the lighthouse guiding the newlyweds into the sea of matrimony.
The magic of the Shinola Hotel lies not only in its architectural beauty but also in its ability to transform into the dream setting for any couple's special day. From the graceful ballrooms to the intimate spaces adorned with Detroit's industrial charm, each nook invites moments of candid joy and heartfelt connections.
The wedding ceremony at the Shinola Hotel wasn't just a celebration; it was a reflection of the couple's journey— a convergence of their past, present, and future. The vows exchanged resonated in the air, echoed by the love and support of family and friends gathered to witness this beautiful milestone.
The essence of a Michigan wedding lies not only in the grandeur but in the intricate details—the traditions woven seamlessly into the celebration. The incorporation of local elements, whether in the cuisine, music, or décor, adds a touch of authenticity that reflects the couple's roots and the richness of the region.
Michigan weddings are a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the power of love. They showcase that amidst the bustling cityscape or serene countryside, what truly matters is the bond shared between two individuals and the promise of a lifetime together.
As the sun set on this remarkable day, the Shinola Hotel stood as a witness to an unforgettable wedding ceremony—a testament to love, tradition, and the magic of Detroit.
Whether it's the charm of a Michigan wedding, the allure of a stylish venue like Shinola Hotel, or the heartfelt words of a dedicated wedding officiant, every element contributes to crafting a momentous day etched in the hearts of all who partake.
In the end, a wedding ceremony is not just an event; it's a symphony composed of emotions, love, and the promise of a beautiful journey ahead—a day to be cherished and remembered, forever held dear in the memory's keepsake box.