Some weddings just stick with you, and Erica and Chris’s Detroit Masonic Temple wedding day was one of those for me. From the solemn beauty of their Catholic ceremony at Saints Peter and Paul Jesuit Church to the chandelier-lit celebration, designed by Nicola from Simply Brilliant Events, this was a day full of emotion and meaning.

Getting Ready Inside the Detroit Masonic Temple

The Detroit Masonic Temple has always fascinated me. It’s the largest Masonic Temple in the world, and it’s hard not to feel mesmerized by it when you stand on Temple Street and look up. It’s undoubtedly one of the most imposing building in the city of Detroit.  I honestly would love to have hours alone to wander its halls.  Erica got ready in the parlor room, inside the Detroit Masonic Temple itself, a hidden gem of a prep space. I love the historic charm of the wood walls and I wonder what they would say if they could talk.

Erica chose to wear her mother’s wedding dress for her ceremony. Before she got dressed, we placed a photo of her mother in her wedding dress on the piano while Erica was helped into the same gown. Seeing Erica getting into the dress while simultaneously looking back to her mother’s own wedding day brought a generational connection.  It certainly gave the whole morning an added layer of meaning.

A Catholic Wedding Ceremony at Saints Peter and Paul Jesuit Church

The ceremony took place at Saints Peter and Paul Jesuit Church. The architecture is stunning. The light is beautiful. It’s reverent and warm. You also can’t beat the location, situated right on Jefferson, you’re right by downtown and the Detroit River, two vital parts of the city. Something that was extra special about their ceremony: Chris’ uncle, Cardinal Joseph Tobin, was able to be there to consecrate the marriage. I always think it’s so special when couples are married by close relatives or friends. It brings an extra personal layer to that part of the day. Chris comes from a big family. I hope the Cardinal is a part of a good frequent flyer program, because I’m sure they’re keeping the Cardinal busy with frequent trips between Rome and the Midwest for weddings and baptisms.

Wedding Portraits at the Detroit Public Library

Afterward, we headed over to the Detroit Public Library for portraits. I love a dramatic architectural backdrop, and the library undeniably delivers drama. After years of photographing in the city, I think it’s an unsung hero of a location. I suggest it to my couples who want photographs that feature the classic Renaissance Revival architecture this city has to offer. Most people default to the staircases at the Detroit Institute of Arts for that look.  The trouble is, on a popular wedding weekend, you can be jostling for space at the DIA with four other wedding parties. The Detroit Public Library offers the same Renaissance Revival architecture, without the crowds. We worked quickly to minimize the amount of time everyone was outside in the chilly November air. These two, and their wedding party, were naturals in front of the camera, despite the cold.

Reception at the Detroit Masonic Temple’s Crystal Ballroom

Erica’s dress change was undoubtedly the perfect way to kick off the party. She went from classic elegance to full-on fashion-forward. It completely shifted the energy from sacred to celebratory. The Crystal Ballroom at the Detroit Masonic Temple looked like something out of a fairytale, with towering floral centerpieces, glowing candlelight, and a full crowd cheering from the mezzanine balconies. Nicola from Simply Brilliant Events pulled everything together flawlessly, from the grand entrance, the heartfelt toasts and dancing. It was a night of moments that felt elevated and intentional without being stuffy.

As a Detroit wedding photographer, it’s certainly a gift when couples trust me to tell their story with honesty and artistry. Erica and Chris’ day had all the things I love to photograph: emotion, beauty, and great light. It was grand while still being sentimental, and traditional without being stuffy.

If you’re planning a wedding at the Detroit Masonic Temple or searching for a fine art documentary wedding photographer in Detroit, I’d love to connect.