Brit and Joe’s Guardian Building wedding in Downtown Detroit was the kind of celebration that makes you fall in love with the city all over again. Every detail felt deeply personal and it was a perfect blend of modern elegance, meaningful tradition, and impeccable taste. To pull it all together, they enlisted the help of the lovely, funny, and talented Nicola Wilson, of Simply Brilliant Events. As a Detroit wedding photographer, these are the kind of days I live for.

Getting Ready at the Detroit Foundation Hotel

The morning began at one of my favorite historic restorations in the city, the Detroit Foundation Hotel. Brit and Joe got ready in separate suites. As a Detroiter, nothing makes me happier than seeing historic buildings be brought back to life. I’m always so thrilled to walk through the doors of the old firehouse.

I was obsessed with Brit’s wedding dress. It was both glamorous and strong and made me think of Joan of Arc.  There were intricate embellishments across the bodice and shoulders. The beading on the veil was done by Brit did herself. It was a radiant, regal look that felt true to who she is. Joe’s custom kilt was also iconic, and we were all grateful that the wind kept itself to a reasonable level that day.

Wedding Portraits in Downtown Detroit

Their first look in the hotel’s hallway was full of emotion and a quiet tenderness.  Afterward, we took portraits on foot around downtown Detroit. I’ve always been inspired by the bold lines and classic buildings, in our city. We visited some of my favorites, like One Woodward. These two were total naturals, and taking time to walk, talk, and soak it all in before the ceremony made for such a relaxed day. That’s one of my favorite things about working with Nicola. She makes sure the day is structured so that no one has to rush except for her and her team. Everyone else gets to breathe and enjoy the day.

Brit and Joe made the choice to forgo a formal wedding party, opting instead for a day focused on the two of them. It’s a trend I’m seeing more often. While I love the energy of a big wedding party, there’s something really special about the quiet, spaciousness this approach brings. There’s less coordination and more connection.

A Guardian Building Wedding Ceremony Full of Meaning

The ceremony and reception both took place in the jaw-dropping lobby of the Guardian Building. It’s one of Detroit’s most iconic architectural landmarks. With its tile ceiling and massive Michigan mural, it’s hard to imagine a more cinematic backdrop.

Brit and Joe thoughtfully wove in two Scottish wedding traditions. First, the quaich, or common cup, and then a handfasting. They’re both beautiful symbols of unity and shared life. My grandmother was born and raised in Scotland. It felt extra special to watch these moments and think about all my Scottish ancestors who participated in the very same traditions.

Cocktail Hour with a View + Effortless Reception Style

While the lobby was transformed for the reception, guests enjoyed cocktail hour with sweeping views of the city from the 32nd floor. Back in the lobby, Nicola combined lush jungle florals with the grandeur of the already amazing lobby of the Guardian Building. All this made for an event Gatsby himself would have envied. It came together seamlessly thanks to Nicola. She brought the couple’s vision to life with care and precision.

Weddings like Brit and Joe’s, where the traditions are rich with meaning and the love is tangible, are exactly the kind of days I feel honored to document. Brit and Joe, thank you for trusting me to tell your story.

If you’re planning a Guardian Building weddingor just looking for a Detroit wedding photographer who values storytelling, I’d love to hear from you.