Getaway Detour

Not every wedding getaway goes strictly according to plan — and we’ve learned over time that’s often where the magic happens.

Jared and Lauren of Kalamazoo, Michigan, had arranged for a classic “church to reception” getaway in our vintage Pontiac. The plan was simple: after exchanging vows, they’d exit the church to cheers, hop into the waiting black-and-chrome beauty, and head off to celebrate with friends and family. But life had one more surprise in store.

The night before the wedding, during the rehearsal dinner, Jared’s sister went into labor. By the time the ceremony wrapped up the next day, there was word: the baby had arrived. With joyful urgency and the kind of spontaneity only newlyweds can pull off in a wedding gown and tux, Jared and Lauren asked if we could make a detour.

Without hesitation, we pointed the car toward Bronson Hospital and made our way to the Emergency Room entrance. Watching the bride and groom step out, still beaming from their vows, and walk through those sliding doors to meet their brand-new niece was a moment we won’t soon forget.

A few minutes later, they returned to the car glowing even brighter than before — full of love not just for each other, but for the growing family that had just welcomed a new member. As we pulled away toward the reception, the conversation was all about tiny fingers, soft cries, and how they’d now forever share their anniversary with their niece’s birthday.

Every getaway is unique, but this one holds a special place in our hearts. It reminded us that sometimes, the most memorable rides are the ones with an unexpected turn — and a beautiful new beginning waiting at the end.