Italian American Cultural Society Wedding
Michelle and Corey married at the beautiful Saints Peter and Paul Jesuit Church before having an Italian American Cultural Society wedding reception in Clinton Township, MI.
A few years ago, mutual friends of Corey and Michelle had the idea to partner them together as bridal party members. Knowing both Corey and Michelle well, they thought there could be something there. Cordial smiles during introductions led to conversation, laughter, and a comfort as they walked arm in arm down the aisle during the ceremony. It turned out, their intuition was correct; Corey and Michelle enjoyed each other’s company on the wedding day. With the end of the night approaching, Corey left a lasting impression on Michelle with his magnetic energy and Magic Mike dance moves. Little did they know that their walk down the aisle together on that fateful afternoon would not be their last. Just a few years later, they would walk arm in arm again, this time as husband and wife. And yes, Corey would show off his Magic Mike dance moves again too.
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When we arrived at Michelle’s parents home, we were greeted by an army of friendly and jovial bridesmaids. The energy in the room set the mood for the rest of the day – everyone was happy, excited, and most importantly, supportive of Michelle in every way. You could tell it was a tight knit group with a deep history of stories that come along with years of friendship.
As the bridesmaids began getting ready, Michelle shared a moment with her mom and sisters.
Next, it was time for Michelle to start getting ready with the help of her sisters and mom.
Michelle looked radiant as a bride and was ready for to see her groom.
Patiently waiting at Sts. Peter and Paul Jesuit Church was Corey and his groomsmen. Corey put on the finishing touches to his wardrobe with the help of his brother and dad.
Weddings are naturally an emotionally poignant rollercoaster, with the moments of anticipation leading up to the pinnacle experience being palpable. Corey’s anticipation of seeing Michelle for the first time as she walked down the aisle filled the room. It was as if everyone held their breath along with Corey as the music changed, cueing the entrance of the bride. As the doors opened, the proverbial rollercoaster peaked and started down is exhilarating ride. Corey, seeing Michelle for the first time, was all smiles and excitement.
Sitting hand-in-hand, all was right in that moment. Their worlds, together, as one.
Corey and Michelle were so excited to get married, they smiled throughout their vows.
Soon after, they were invited back to the altar for one last blessing and were then announced as husband and wife.
Following the ceremony, Corey and Michelle joined family for some formals at the altar.
As newly minted husband and wife, Corey and Michelle were ready to hit the town and celebrate. First stop, Parker’s Alley behind the beautiful Shinola Hotel.
After a quick lap in Parker’s Alley, we hopped on the party bus and headed to some of Detroit’s landmarks, including the Detroit Institute of Arts.
One of my favorite moments behind the camera is watching the couple truly be present in the moment. It is a very subtle change in their body language and expressions, but if you can catch it and acknowledge it, it is often the perfect ingredient to add to any image. Isolated from their bridal party, Corey and Michelle fully felt each other’s presence and love while standing atop of the DIA. The moments that followed were pure magic.
After the DIA, we began heading north towards Michelle and Corey’s Italian American Cultural Society wedding reception. With a few minutes to spare, we stopped in Midtown and the Cadillac Place apartments for a few more pictures.
We arrived at their Italian American Cultural Society wedding reception a few minutes before the doors open for guests. Michelle and Corey floated through the room, greeting guests and exchanging hugs with everyone they crossed.
With guests in their seats, it was time for Michelle and Corey’s grand entrance.
Family members offered toasts…and a few memorable quips and stories.
Michelle and Corey took to the dance floor before ultimately opening it for an evening of fun lead by DJ Big Ben.
Wedding dress: The Wedding Shoppe
Bridesmaid dresses: Azazie
Beauty: Dena Marie’s Salon
Suits: Todd’s Menswear
Accessories: Knotty Tie
Flowers: Viviano’s
Church: Sts Peter and Paul Jesuit
Reception: Italian American Cultural Center
Limo: Dream Limousine
Videography: Trifoot Productions
