detroit colony club winter wedding . cara + chris {i do} . kari dawson photography

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Chris + Cara’s Detroit Colony Club winter wedding was romantic, classic, and elegant. The winter weather wasn’t exactly what you would expect for a January wedding but you won’t find me complaining about sunshine and 48 degrees. A cute BRIDE garland was draped across the hotel room door at the MGM Grand in Detroit where Cara prepared for her wedding day with her mom, sisters, and other bridesmaids. The room was buzzing and full of excitement as finishing touches were made. I was greeted by all the lovely ladies in royal blue matching satin robes. So fun and so cute. I was delighted when I saw the girls were wearing a mermaid style bridesmaid dress in the same gorgeous royal blue. This dress was so flattering on all the ladies. Cara and her girls all had faux fur shawls that looked so elegant and helped keep them warm. Cara’s ballgown style wedding gown was beautiful on her custom ‘Mrs.’ hanger but when she put it on, she knocked us all out. It was a fun process getting Cara to step into her ballgown AND the huge skirt under it at the same time. But her mom and sisters were so kind and attentive. Cara’s two sisters and maid of honor’s kept that dress looking amazing and perfectly pleated all day.

Before we left the hotel to head to the church there was just one thing left to do. It was time for Cara to see her father for the first time. Dad’s on wedding days can shape into a completely different person. Even the strongest of father’s with the most serious personalities become total smitten and tearful gentlemen when they see their daughters. Cara’s dad was no different. My favorite moment all day though was a one-liner delivered by Cara’s dad. Because we are such pranksters in my own home and we all fancy ourselves a comedian I found it especially endearing when Cara’s dad broke the mood by telling Cara she had something between her teeth. Poor Cara was horrified for a split second. And it was a great reminder to not take things too serious, relax and celebrate.

The altar in the Blessed Sacrament Cathedral is brightly lit compared to the rest of the sanctuary. Cara stood next to Chris at the altar while her sisters laid out her dress and veil perfectly at the top of the aisle. They both look so gorgeous as shadows against the bright light at the altar perfecting their sister on her wedding day. Chris wasn’t even remotely nervous before the ceremony. He was just ready. And when the doors opened and Cara appeared, he just waited with a giant smile for her to approach. Their service was personal and sweet. This classic and elegant couple was surrounded by so much love from family and friends and encased in this giant cathedral that was traditional and stunning yet timeless.

The party bus that escorted us around Detroit for portraits was so fun. I always love seeing how each person becomes more relaxed and vibrant after the seriousness of the ceremony is over. This is a short period of time where my couples and their wedding party get to just be themselves and celebrate together. And I often get a look at a new layer of each couple when they reveal the music that will be blaring from the party bus speakers. Let’s just say this group was fun and funny! So entertaining. They made me want to take my photographer hat off and join them. The black tuxedos and royal blue bridesmaids dresses looked stunning against the features in Detroit.

From the moment we arrived, Melissa, at the Colony Club was available and attentive. She checked in with myself and Cara and Chris regularly. Made sure they were comfortable and had everything they needed. And kept everything timely and smooth. As cocktail hour got underway the wedding party departed. Cara and Chris made it a point to ensure that they had time to be ALONE. They had time alone, away from the wedding party and guests for portraits at the Colony Club. This makes it so much easier for the couple to take in the gravity of all that has just happened. To snuggle close. And regroup before the party begins. After that, Cara and Chris still had time to themselves in a quiet room, undisturbed before they were announced with the wedding party. The speeches were full of laughter. Their first dance was so romantic as they held each other close and so fun when Chris spun Cara and her dress swooshed around them. It was a beautiful wedding and a beautiful couple to kick off the new year! Cara and Chris, I hope you’re enjoying your honeymoon!

The creative team and vendor information is provided at the end of this post.

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