Masonic Temple Detroit wedding

Masonic Temple Detroit Wedding

Monday, August 20th, 2018

Dan and Kristen had a memorable Masonic Temple Detroit wedding.

A few years ago, I photographed Ryan and Katelyn’s wedding at Detroit’s Sweetest Heart of Mary.  That wedding was special and memorable to me because not only have they become dear friends to Becky and myself, but it was also so. much. fun!  Katelyn had a team of bridesmaids, one of whom was Kristen, who kept me laughing all day.  You can imagine how pleasantly surprised I was when I met up with Kristen and Dan a few months later as we all vacationed together in Mexico!  At the time, Kristen and Dan weren’t engaged, but it was pretty obvious that milestone was around the corner from the way both of them complimented each other, not only verbally but in life.  When I heard the news, I was genuinely excited and happy for them.  When Kristen reached out to me to talk about shooting her wedding, I was excited for myself!  I knew it was going to be a gorgeous and elegant event.  My expectations were surpassed.

~

Kristen started her day getting ready at her parents’ house in Lake Orion.  All of the details were there, from the matching robes to the personalized clothing hangers.  She even had designated mimosa flutes waiting for the girls.  When I walked in their house, the energy was light and fun.  Laughter filled the living room while James, Kristen’s trusted dog, quickly became my best friend.  (I got a few surprise kissed in my ear from him while I was on the ground shooting.)

With everyone’s hair and makeup done, it was time to start getting ready.  Kristen looked incredible!  I knew her beauty and happiness that morning was nothing though compared to when she would see Dan.

After Kristen and the girls were dressed, it was time to head to the church.  Kristen and Dan got married at St. Florian Catholic Church in Hamtramck.  One of the most overlooked beauties of Detroit are its churches.  I love discovering and worshipping in new churches.  This was my first time in St. Florian; it is awe-inspiring.

St Florian Catholic Church Hamtramck

Inside, I met Dan, who was patiently waiting with his family and groomsmen.  With the help of his parents, he finished getting ready before meeting his bride.

One of the characteristics of many older churches is long aisle ways – a photographer’s dream!  Kristen looked amazing as she presented herself to her guests and Dan.

St Florian Catholic Church Hamtramck wedding St Florian Catholic Church Hamtramck wedding St Florian Catholic Church Hamtramck wedding St Florian Catholic Church Hamtramck wedding St Florian Catholic Church Hamtramck wedding St Florian Catholic Church Hamtramck wedding

I love capturing moments like this that guests don’t always get to see.  Kristen was playing with Dan’s wedding ring, which evoked a genuine smile of excitement from Dan.

St Florian Catholic Church Hamtramck wedding

And with an announcement and a kiss, they were officially husband and wife.

St Florian Catholic Church Hamtramck wedding St Florian Catholic Church Hamtramck wedding

The altar of St. Florian was too beautiful to not use for a series of images for just Dan and Kristen.

St Florian Catholic Church Hamtramck wedding St Florian Catholic Church Hamtramck wedding St Florian Catholic Church Hamtramck wedding

After the ceremony, we toured around Detroit, stopping at some of its best landmarks to take photos.

Belle Isle Casino Detroit wedding

I am normally not one to notice, but I loved the bridesmaids dresses and what Kristen did with the palate of colors.

Belle Isle Casino Detroit wedding Belle Isle Casino Detroit wedding Belle Isle Casino Detroit wedding Belle Isle Detroit wedding

A few weddings ago, I got under the veil with the bride and groom.  Like a bull in a China shop, it is interesting what walls immediately fall when I charge into someone’s personal space like this.  The only thing left to do, is cling to each other, which makes for a beautiful image.

Belle Isle Detroit wedding Belle Isle Detroit wedding

Between the stops in Detroit – more fun on the party bus!  Soon, we would be at their Masonic Temple Detroit wedding.

Masonic Temple Detroit wedding Masonic Temple Detroit wedding

Our last stop was Detroit’s Masonic Temple.  The elegance and history of this venue was the perfect backdrop to celebrate their wedding.

Masonic Temple Detroit wedding Masonic Temple Detroit wedding

Before guests were welcomed to their seats, we snuck into the ballroom and snapped a few images in and around the Masonic Temple.

Masonic Temple Detroit wedding Masonic Temple Detroit wedding Masonic Temple Detroit wedding

After dinner, Kristen and Dan stepped outside for one last photo session and to have a moment to take it all in.

Masonic Temple Detroit wedding Masonic Temple Detroit wedding

With all of the formal photos done and dinner served, there was only one thing left to do…

Masonic Temple Detroit wedding Masonic Temple Detroit wedding Masonic Temple Detroit wedding

…party!  I have to say, the gentleman were well represented on the dance floor and demonstrated some impressive moves.

Masonic Temple Detroit wedding

Congratulations Kristen and Dan; you had a wonderful Masonic Temple Detroit wedding.