The War Memorial Wedding

Tuesday, October 10th, 2023

Antonio and Jessica’s wedding at The War Memorial was destined to be a beautiful one. From the moment we connected to discuss the details, their wedding incorporated some of my favorite spots in Grosse Pointe, including the Grosse Pointe Academy for their ceremony and The War Memorial for their reception. I have photographed at both venues on numerous occasions, but this was my first time being back to The War Memorial since they renovated.

Prior to the wedding, I spoke at length with Colleen, Jessica’s mom. She was so organized and detailed, I sincerely thought she was a wedding planner or had previously been one. It was clear with her level of detail and thoughtfulness, the day was going to be enjoyable and memorable for everyone involved. A few days before the wedding, I had the opportunity to meet Antonio’s parents. What I thought would be a quick coffee turned into an hour long talk, covering everything from their wedding day to some family history. Having connected with both sets of parents, by the time Jessica and Antontio’s wedding was here, I felt more like a guest than a vendor. The only two people left to meet were the bride and groom themselves!

Having met Antonio and Jessica on their wedding day, it was easy to see why they ended up together: both have a kind heart and friendly demeanor. Jessica was the first to get ready with the help of her mom in the beautiful sunroom at The War Memorial.

A wedding dress hangs in the doorway of the War Memorial.

A bride gets ready, putting on her shoes, on her wedding day at The War Memorial.

A bride gets ready holding the train of her dress, on her wedding day at The War Memorial.

A bride looks at her bouquet in the sunroom of The War Memorial in Grosse Pointe Farms on her wedding day.

A bride gets ready in the sunroom of The War Memorial in Grosse Pointe Farms on her wedding day.

Once Jessica was hidden, it was Antonio’s turn to get ready. Sporting his grandfather’s jewelry, he decided to put on hs finishing touches in the library.

A groom poses while standing next to a leather couch at the War Memorial.

A groom poses while sitting on a leather couch at the War Memorial.

Next, it was time for their first look. Both Antonio and Jessica’s demeanor changed from being a bit reserved to joyously expressive once they saw each other.

A bride and groom kiss in front of The War Memorial in Grosse Pointe Farms on their wedding day.

A bride and groom walk down the steps on their wedding day at The War Memorial in Grosse Pointe Farms.

After spending some time photographing outside of The War Memorial, Jessica and Antonio sat down in the library to share their personal vows.

A bride and groom read their vows, sitting on a leather couch, at their wedding taking place at The War Memorial.

A bride and groom pose, sitting on a leather couch, at their wedding taking place at The War Memorial.

Next, we visited the newly renovated part of the War Memorial and found it to be beautiful.

Next, it was time for the bridal party to join Jessica and Antonio for a few pictures prior to the ceremony.

Bridesmaids walk in front of the War Memorial during a wedding.

A bridal party walks in front of the War Memorial during a wedding.

We arrived at the Grosse Pointe Academy early, allowing us to take a few more photos before the ceremony.

A bride and groom embrace on the stairway at their Grosse Pointe Academy wedding.

A bride and groom walk the grounds outside at their Grosse Pointe Academy wedding.

A bride and groom hold hands outside at their Grosse Pointe Academy wedding.

A bride and groom hold hands during the ceremony at their Grosse Pointe Academy wedding.

A bride and groom walk down the aisle at their Grosse Pointe Academy wedding.

After the ceremony, we headed back to The War Memorial for the reception. Guests gathered outside and enjoyed the patio and views of beautiful Lake St. Clair.