Freedom Hill Wedding of Kaleigh and Scott

Kaleigh and Scott’s Freedom Hill wedding and back yard reception.

I was so happy to hear that Kaleigh and Scott were going through with their wedding during these times. Originally, they planned their wedding to take place at one of Metro Detroit’s most prestigious venues with a large group of family and friends in attendance. However, with Covid, they had to change things up. They decided to keep their wedding date and downsize. It is a difficult decision, but it isn’t one that seems to diminish the day or experience. In fact, I have noticed couples are so much more relaxed and present on their wedding day the past few months. They get to talk to more of their guests as their day becomes less rigid and more fluid.

Overall, Kaleigh and Scott’s experience was no different. It was so reassuring to see Kaleigh and Scott soak in and enjoy every minute of the wedding. I was happy for both of them.

Becky and I started off our day at Kaleigh’s house, where we would later return for the reception and fireworks.

One of the first things I noticed when I walked into the house were the photos hanging on foyer wall. I smiled on the inside. Prominently displayed were two wedding photos from Kaleigh’s great grandparents. These photos are so rare in the sense that the negative is most likely lost and it wasn’t common back then to print multiple copies of an image. In short, this is a one-of family heirloom. I smiled because it shows that to this family, photography means something. Photography is something to be printed, enjoyed, respected, and talked about. (I inquired and heard the stories of who they were.) Printed photography helps keep stories, memories, and heritage alive. Knowing that Kaleigh and Scott’s wedding images will receive the same treatment and will be displayed long after I am gone was a special and humbling feeling.

Speaking of smiling, both Kaleigh and I had a good chuckle at Mr. Robert’s shirt. If I had a daughter, I think I would get one in every color.

With Kaleigh ready, it was time for their first look. Just like their wedding plans, we had to make a change. Our original first look location had orange construction cones and was flooded when we arrived. What can you do? Instead, we found a quiet and remote spot in Detroit to give them the privacy and moment they deserved.

Kaleigh and Scott were so natural and comfortable in front of the camera, largely because they were natural and comfortable in each other’s arms. Just being with each other brought out the most beautiful and genuine smiles.

We toured around Detroit, stopping in various spots along the way before heading north to their Freedom Hill wedding. Detroit’s Z Lot offered us a pop of color and a touch of city.

I love this sequence of photos. I was about to ask Scott to give Kaleigh a pinch with his strategically placed left hand. Instead, he jumped the gun and did his own thing, and created a very candid moment.

Lastly, before heading to their Freedom Hill wedding, we stopped at Belle Isle and met up with Kaleigh’s Maid of Honor and Scott’s Best Man.

I have to say, one of my favorite parts of the wedding was Kaleigh and Scott’s transportation: a Rolls Royce! I love bringing any classic car into a wedding. It is a great prop and another opportunity to show off the personality of the couple. Here, a Rolls Royce was a fitting choice.

With friends and family gathering around, it was time for their Freedom Hill wedding.

Following their Freedom Hill wedding ceremony, we went back to their house where beautiful tented reception was waiting. After shooting hundreds of weddings, you don’t remember the dinner portion of the day unless it really stands out. I was so impressed (and stuffed) by the food of Encore Catering. Hat’s off to Chef Bobby.

With dinner over, it was time for first dances.

I am not sure what Mr. Robert’s said, but I am pretty sure it was a dad joke.

After dancing, guests enjoyed drinks, lawn games, and a beautiful sunset. To cap off the perfect night, Kaleigh and Scott had a fireworks show put on my the award winning Great Lake Fireworks. Holy sheesh! It was incredible and the perfect exclamation point to their wedding day.