Meadowbrook Hall Wedding with Ken and Taylor
One of the best parts of my job is making clients happy. That is intentionally vague because happiness can be delivered in many aspects: answering emails quickly, taking beautiful photos, bring couples’ wedding day visions to life…you name it. Working with Taylor and Ken on their Meadowbrook Hall wedding wasn’t just delivering happiness, it was swimming in a pool of it from beginning to end.
What I applaud and admire most about Taylor and Ken’s wedding was they made it their own. They had a vision and were flexible in the approach to make that vision become a reality. In doing so, they also got some beautiful photos to remember the day by.
Their day started off in the early morning at Meadowbrook, one of Metro Detroit’s most sought after wedding venues. In eleven years of shooting, this is only my third Meadowbrook Hall wedding! Needless to say, I was excited to be back and to have the opportunity to photograph in such a beautiful spot. As soon as Taylor arrived, the events of the day started with a first look with her dad.
The Pegasus Gardens were the perfect spot, secluded from her guests and filled with color, to photograph her first looks.
I always joke around that I get bonus points if I can photograph people crying. It happens pretty quickly and it is also creates a hightened, emotional photo. Taylor’s dad didn’t disappoint.
Next, Taylor shared a first look with her brother. They have an incredibly tight bond and he was excited to see his sister on her big day.
While we brought Ken back to the gardens for the first look, I waited with Taylor inside a small sunroom. I love incorporating architecture and directional light in my photos, just as the master painters did years ago. Here, I stepped into the next room, a grand dining room with dark wood, and used the door to frame Taylor. An elegant pose and a very short window of time, no more than two minutes, and we created an image that will stand the test of time.
Finally, with much anticipation from both of them, it was time for Ken and Taylor’s first look.
After giving them a few minutes to settle their emotions and just be present, we used the grounds to create some timeless wedding photos.
I love the clean, elegant, and tender look of their photos.
As it got closer to ceremony time, we headed inside away from guests and waited for them to be seated. While doing so, I wanted to create a regal portrait of Ken. His youthful features reminded me of my grandpa, a strong and determined man who always worked hard to provide for his family. As time goes on, I think the photo below will show those same qualities in Ken.
Next, it was time for what everyone was waiting for: the ceremony.
I mentioned earlier that Ken and Taylor truly made this day their own. I couldn’t have asked for a better couple to work with. They were completely trusting in my vision and suggestions for their timeline to deliver them not only beautiful wedding images, but a memorable wedding experience as well. Immediately following the ceremony, they had a cocktail hour at Meadowbrook Hall where guests enjoyed a drink and conversation on the beautiful grounds. Taylor and Ken joined for a bit before we took one last set of photos, utilizing the iconic beauty of the mansion.
Once our time was up at Meadowbrook, we stayed on Oakland University’s campus and photographed the bride, groom, and wedding party in some of my favorite spots.
Before we knew it, it was time for their reception at Palazzo Grande. With the help of her mom, Taylor freshened up and got ready to celebrate.
Once Taylor and Ken entered, it was all smiles, laughter, and fun for the rest of the evening. Guests showered them with love as they celebrated their first day as husband and wife.
