St. Aloysius Wedding

Tuesday, October 29th, 2024

On Friday, October 4, Zack and Samantha joyfully celebrated their St. Aloysius wedding, surrounded by loved ones and friends. The day began in vibrant downtown Detroit, where we captured Zack and Samantha’s prep and individual portraits, setting the perfect tone for the festivities ahead.

Zack and his groomsmen gathered outside for portraits, the warm sunlight filtering through the trees and enhancing the lively atmosphere. This large group of friends, primarily from Western Michigan University, filled the day with laughter and camaraderie, creating memorable moments that translated beautifully into photographs. Their playful interactions added a sense of joy and lightheartedness, capturing Zack’s personality and the bond he shares with his groomsmen. These portraits reflected the spirit of the day—love, friendship, and celebration.

Groom outdoor portrait in Detroit
Groom outdoor portrait in Detroit
Groom outdoor portrait in Detroit
Groomsmen outdoors in downtown Detroit
Groomsmen outdoors in downtown Detroit

We met Samantha at the Westin Hotel, where she was preparing for the day. She wasn’t stressed; instead, she chatted with her friends and was excited to start the day’s events. When I hugged and congratulated her on the occasion, I knew we would have a fantastic time working together. Her infectious personality and genuine nature were so uplifting.

Westin Hotel in downtown Detroit

Samantha’s preparation photos are absolutely breathtaking! The soft, natural lighting accentuated her flawless complexion, making her skin glow. Her stunning dress twinkled in the sunlight, each detail sparkling in the warm rays. Her mother and sister were essential in preparing her for this important day, carefully arranging her veil and helping her with the finishing touches. Their laughter and excitement created a beautiful backdrop for these cherished moments, perfectly capturing the essence of this special occasion.

Bride's gown at Westin Hotel
Bride in front of wedding dress
Bride and mother of the bride portrait
Bride and mother's hands on wedding dress
Bride and mother of the bride portrait
Bride and mom and sister in portrait
Bride prep putting on her earrings
Bride prep putting on her earrings while sister and mom watch.
Bride prep putting on her shoes

It was time for Samantha and her father, Sam, to have their first look. They share a very close bond, so calling this moment emotional would be an understatement. Thankfully, Sam had extra tissues in his pocket, preparing for the wave of emotions that would come with seeing his firstborn in her wedding dress.

Bride and father for first look
Bride and father crying during their first look
Father, mother and bride embrace in portrait on wedding day
Father, mother, sister and bride embrace in portrait on wedding day

Samantha and Zack were ready to share their first look outside St. Aloysius Church. It was a quiet moment for them, filled with smiles and laughter. Afterward, we set off into the city, capturing various portraits of them together before we met up with their full bridal party.

First look with bride and groom outside of their St. Aloysius wedding
First look with bride and groom outside of their St. Aloysius wedding
First look with bride and groom outside of their St. Aloysius wedding
First look with bride and groom outside of their St. Aloysius wedding
First look with bride and groom outside of their St. Aloysius wedding
First look with bride and groom outside of their St. Aloysius wedding
First look with bride and groom outside of their St. Aloysius wedding
Bride and groom kiss outside of their St. Aloysius wedding
Bride and groom kiss outside of DIA
Bride and groom embrace outside of the DIA
Close up of bride and groom on stairs at DIA
Close up of bride and groom on stairs at DIA
Bride and groom on stairs at DIA
Bride and groom share an embrace and kiss amidst fall foliage
Bride and groom on stairs at DIA
Bride and groom on stairs at DIA
Bridal party outside of DIA
Bride and groom embrace outside of DPL

After our time in Detroit, we returned to St. Aloysius for the ceremony. The atmosphere was electric with anticipation and joy. Zack stood at the altar with a broad smile, eagerly awaiting Samantha’s entrance. Each step she took filled the room with an undeniable warmth. During the ceremony, there was a tender moment when Sam proudly gave Samantha away, placing two kisses on Zack’s cheek. This moment perfectly captured the love and support surrounding them. Overall, it was a beautiful St. Aloysius wedding filled with heartfelt emotions.

Wedding newsletter before St. Aloysius wedding
Groom awaiting bride at St. Aloysius wedding
Father and bride walk down the aisle at St. Aloysius wedding
Father of bride embraces groom at at St. Aloysius wedding
Bride and groom at end of aisle of at St. Aloysius wedding
Bride and groom at end of aisle of at St. Aloysius wedding
Close up of bridesmaids at St. Aloysius wedding
Full congregation at St. Aloysius wedding
Priest speaking to the congregation at St. Aloysius wedding
Exchange of vows of bride and groom at St. Aloysius wedding
Exchange of vows of bride and groom at St. Aloysius wedding
Exchange of rings of bride and groom at St. Aloysius wedding
Bride and groom kiss at St. Aloysius wedding
Bride and groom walk down the aisle at St. Aloysius wedding
Bridal portrait at St. Aloysius wedding
Bridal portrait at St. Aloysius wedding

The reception took place at the beautiful Andiamo venue, known for its decor and delicious food. As the doors opened, the couple made a spectacular entrance, their faces beaming joyfully! Guests erupted in cheers, setting the tone for a celebratory evening.

Samantha’s sister kicked off the speeches with a warm and funny tribute, followed by Zack’s brother, who shared touching memories that brought smiles to everyone’s faces. Finally, Samantha’s dad took the microphone, delivering a heartfelt message that resonated deeply with the guests. After the speeches, the energy shifted to the dance floor, which started with formal dances and then opened up to everyone to celebrate together.

Bride and groom kiss after cake cutting at Andiamo
Sister of bride speech at Andiamo
Sister of bride speech at Andiamo
Sister of bride speech at Andiamo
Brother of groom during speech at Andiamo
Brother of groom during speech at Andiamo
Father of bride speech at Andiamo
Brides reaction to father speaking at Andiamo
Cheers photo at Andiamo
Bride and goom first dance during St. Aloysius wedding
Bride and goom first dance during St. Aloysius wedding
Bride and goom first dance during St. Aloysius wedding
Father of bride dance during St. Aloysius wedding
Mother of groom dance during St. Aloysius wedding
Dance floor opens up at St. Aloysius wedding
Dance floor opens up at St. Aloysius wedding
Bride on the dance floor with drink and dog sign

Samantha and Zack were having a wonderful time on the dance floor, fully immersed in the celebration! Who would have thought they would be catching an evening flight to Greece the next day? I hope you both managed to rest and enjoy your beautiful honeymoon!