Detroit Shinola Hotel Wedding

We first met Sydney and Wes back in September for their Lincoln Park, Chicago engagement session. It was a memorable photo shoot, walking the streets of the Windy City and getting to know them. Learning more about their relationship over pizza at the end of the night was just icing on the cake. Becky ordered her first hot honey pizza and still speaks of it today. She even talks about heading back to Chicago for that exact pizza again! We had a wonderful time with them in the fall and were looking forward to their Detroit Shinola Hotel wedding.

Upon arrival, it felt like reuniting with old friends! We always enjoy shooting an engagement session prior to a wedding, as it allows us to get to know the couple and establish a good rapport with them. It also helps us to understand how to collaborate effectively and to make the couple feel more comfortable in front of the camera. Sydney and Wes needed no help with that though; they were naturals in front of the camera and around each other.

The first thing we noticed was that both Wes and Sydney had gifted each other Shinola watches to commemorate their special day. How fitting, right? Both of their new watches were beautiful classic pieces that will be cherished for years to come after their Detroit Shinola Hotel wedding.

As Sydney prepared to slip into her exquisite wedding dress, we made our way to a new spot within the elegant Shinola Hotel. Here, we are enthralled by the natural light and the striking modern artwork adorning the hotel’s walls. The boutique hotel’s ambiance provides a stunning backdrop for couples, adding a touch of sophistication to the photos and creating an unforgettable experience.

As we entered Wes’s room, we were greeted by laughter blending with a gentle, melodic soundtrack playing softly in the background. The serene melodies chosen by Wes wrapped the room in a tranquil embrace, setting the perfect tone for a peaceful and unhurried start to the day.

As we approached their first look, the anticipation was palpable. Both Wes and Sydney stood in the breathtaking Birdy Room, a conservatory with vaulted glass ceilings that filled the space with natural light. As Sydney made her way towards Wes, every step seemed to carry the weight of the moment. Her smile reflected the joy and nervous excitement she felt. As she approached Wes, she turned and looked back at Becky, signaling that she was ready to see her soon-to-be husband!

As we strolled around the Shinola Hotel, we made sure to capture spontaneous and authentic moments through our camera lens. Sydney and Wes, both coffee enthusiasts, quickly felt the need for a pick-me-up as the day promised to be a demanding one. Therefore, we made a delightful pit stop at MadCap, a cozy and inviting café. Inside, the ambiance was perfect for seizing genuine and personal moments on camera.

After our time in city, we headed back to Shinola to celebrate their ceremony and reception. The atmosphere in the Birdy Room was electric as guests eagerly anticipated the arrival of the bride and groom. Craft cocktails and champagne flowed, adding to the excitement and anticipation for their Detroit Shinola Hotel wedding.

As Wes and Sydney stepped into their reception, there was nothing but excitement in the room. As Eminem’s “Welcome 2 Detroit” began to play as they entered the room with pure joy on their faces. It was a great way to kick off their night and welcome many of the guests who were new to the city.

As the evening drew to a close at their Detroit Shinola Hotel wedding, we captured intimate rooftop photos against the backdrop of a sunset painted with a stunning blend of pink and orange hues.

The warm light beautifully illuminated the moment, offering them an opportunity to cherish and reflect upon the events of the preceding twelve-plus hours.

Wedding Planner – Planning Collective

Beauty – Detroit Glam

Beauty – Brittani Hodges

Entertainment – Collision Six

Florals – Parsonage Events

Venues – Shinola Hotel