Grosse Pointe Yacht Club Wedding
When Catie and Nathan emailed me asking to meet up to talk about their wedding, I mentioned we can grab a coffee or a drink and talk details about their day. Catie suggested we grab a drink at Bobcat Bonnie’s in downtown Ferndale as it was more their style. I knew when I left our consultation their Grosse Pointe Yacht Club wedding was going to be a fun-filled event. We spent about three and a half hours laughing and 30 minutes talking about their wedding. That might be a bit off, but the fun we had was definitely memorable. Becky and I both got to get a sneak peek of their love during their engagement session at Stony Creek. Just like their consultation, it was a lot of storytelling and laughing with what felt like friends. When you feel that warm vibe from a couple, you can’t help but look forward to their wedding day.
Catie and Nathan’s wedding day started off at the Marriott Hotel in the Renaissance Center. The views of Detroit were stunning. Nathan got ready with the help of his dad while his groomsmen hung out, watched soccer, and occasionally tossed a few verbal jabs at each other, which resulted in laughter from the adjoining room. Since groom prep takes just a few minutes, I normally squeeze it in before the ceremony while the bride hides; however, lately I have been showing up early and loving the results.
After Nathan was dressed and ready to go, we headed over to Catie’s parents’ house for her prep. With the help of a little bubbly, everyone was in a good mood and excited to see Catie as a bride.
Catie shared a special moment with her dad as he saw her for the first time.
After Catie’s dad shared a first look, so did the bridesmaids.
Next it was time to get married! Catie and Nathan had their ceremony at the beautiful St. Paul’s on the Lake. Nathan fought back tears when he saw his bride for the first time.
The past few weddings I have photographed have all had a little celebration at the altar after taking their vows. I love it! I think we can all appreciate the opportunity to let our guards down, be present, and celebrate something good in these times. The joy and excitement couples feel in this moment is worth of a little break from formalities. You can’t fake that smile on Nate’s face.
After the ceremony, guests cheered on Catie and Nate as they walked out of the church officially husband and wife.
Prior to their Grosse Pointe Yacht Club wedding reception, we stuck around the church and photographed them and the bridal party at the beautiful Grosse Pointe Academy.
As the sun was starting to soften, it cast the most beautiful glow on Catie. We had to stop for one more quick session with this light.
Guests were patiently waiting for the bride and groom to arrive to kick off their Grosse Pointe Yacht Club wedding reception. A cool breeze flowed through the reception area, making it the perfect night for an outdoor party.
As evening set upon us, guests were ready to dance to the live music. First, the dance floor needed to be opened by the bride and groom.
As the evening went on, there was just one last celebration left for the bride and groom – a sparkler exit. Nate and Catie enjoyed their time, surrounded by family and friends, and sealed the night with a kiss.
Special shout out to Mas Media for collaborating on Catie and Nate’s wedding day. I have worked with Mas and his team on several occasions and have always enjoyed the process and appreciated his creative visions. Mas produced this sneak peek video just days after the wedding.
