Atheneum Hotel Wedding Reception

Russell and Chelsea tied the knot at St. Paul’s on the Lake and celebrated at their Atheneum Hotel Wedding Reception.

Brian had the pleasure of both knowing Chelsea before her wedding (He photographed a few of her friends’ weddings) and also shot at a Atheneum Hotel wedding reception as well. This was my first time for both and was absolutely delighted with the day. Between Chelsea’s contagious laughter and the beauty everywhere we turned, it was the perfect wedding.

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Upon arriving at Chelsea’s childhood home, we were warmly greeted with love and anticipation. All eleven of Chelsea’s bridesmaids were present, busily preparing for her special day. Chelsea planned a reveal with her bridesmaids, so she stayed in her room for the initial preparation photos.

Inside her room, her beautiful dress hung elegantly. I thought to myself, if it looked that lovely on a hanger, it would be stunning on Chelsea. And I was right! As Brian moved around the room, I couldn’t help but notice Chelsea’s calm demeanor. She was excited, yet incredibly composed and focused on the moment. This allowed us to capture some beautiful, intimate photos before she put on her gown.

As the time for Chelsea to see her Dad for the first time approached, the air was filled with suspense and anxious anticipation. Chelsea and her Dad share an incredibly close relationship, so this moment held great significance for both of them. Chelsea went to hide in the adjoining room and asked her sister to bring her some tissues, preparing herself for the emotions that were about to hit her. As Chelsea turned the corner after her Dad took his place, beaming smiles illuminated their faces. Those witnessing the event couldn’t help but shed tears at the overwhelming display of love and happiness.

After sharing an emotional moment with her Dad, Chelsea then revealed herself to her bridesmaids. We transitioned from tears to uncontainable excitement. The girls gathered and covered their eyes while Chelsea positioned herself. Then, on the count of three, the girls caught their first glimpse of Chelsea as a bride. Their reactions were a mix of gasps, big smiles, and even laughter as they playfully commented on “knowing” what dress Chelsea was going to pick for her wedding day. It was a delightful and lively moment with all of her closest girlfriends, the perfect way to kick off the day!

When we arrived at Grosse Pointe, we were welcomed by Russell and his groomsmen. My attention was immediately drawn to Russell’s impeccably tailored forest green suit, which was customized both inside and out. The rich hue of the suit made him subtly stand out amidst his groomsmen. Despite Russell’s outward calm demeanor, he confided in us that he was feeling “butterflies.” However, he managed to stay composed and fully engaged in the present moment.

Their ceremony took place at St. Paul’s on the Lake, providing a beautiful backdrop for exchanging their vows. Many guests filled the church and waited for the mass to begin. As soon as Chelsea’s flower girl started walking down the aisle, she captured everyone’s attention with her beautiful smile and curly hair.

As Chelsea and Russell were pronounced husband and wife, the church filled with cheers and applause for the newlyweds. Chelsea’s radiant smile never faded, from the moment they were announced to their exit from the church. These photos are some of my favorites as they beautifully capture the pure joy of the occasion!

We departed from Grosse Pointe and made our way to Detroit for the Atheneum Hotel wedding reception. The wedding party was full of enthusiasm and very happy for their friends who had just gotten married. The group was eager to have their photos taken with the bride and groom. We also took the opportunity to rearrange the bridal party, which resulted in some fun group shots!

After the excitement of the bridal party photos, we were granted a few precious moments alone with Russell and Chelsea. It was an opportunity for them to have some quiet time together while we tried to preserve their joy behind the lens. Chelsea’s smile lit up the entire scene, and Russell was incredibly cooperative, willing to go above and beyond for the perfect shot. When the time came for him to lift Chelsea, he did so effortlessly, resulting in some of the most candid and heartwarming photos. The series of moments captured below truly encapsulate the genuine love and happiness shared between these two.

When we arrived at their Atheneum Hotel Wedding Reception, the venue was beautifully decorated. Chelsea had thought of every detail and it showed! The room was adorned with lovely twinkling lights hanging from the ceiling, giving the space a warm and inviting atmosphere.

When the bride and groom were announced, Chelsea and Russell entered with their arms raised, ready to embrace the moments ahead. Their grand entrance was filled with excitement as their bridal party surrounded them, cheering them on.

The heartfelt speeches set the stage for an evening of joyous dancing. From the tender first dance of Russell and Chelsea to the beautifully choreographed dance between Chelsea and her father, and then Russell’s touching dance with his mother, each moment was filled with smiles, overflowing love, and a few glistening tears.

Before the evening ended, we took Chelsea and Russell to the rooftop of the Atheneum Hotel. The hotel offers stunning city views, and with Detroit’s skyline illuminated at night, it provided the perfect backdrop for Russell and Chelsea. They danced and enjoyed memories with their guests while the sun continued to go down.

Once night was upon us, he headed up to the rooftop. The photos that followed turned out fantastic. You can really feel the love between the two of them. It was the perfect end to the perfect day.

Beauty: Beauty Gals

Beauty: Bocci Salon, Hair by Angelica

Flowers: Rustic Root

Transportation: Dream Limousine

Planner: Lidia Salvaggio

Church: St. Paul’s on the Lake

Venue: Atheneum Hotel