Oct 23, 2023

Meadow Brook Hall Metro Detroit Wedding | Carli & Justin

Updated: Nov 15, 2023

The crisp air, the warm hues of the changing foliage, and a lucky wedding day drizzle set the stage for Carli and Justin's Meadow Brook Hall wedding day which was nothing short of magical. If you haven't met Carli and Justin yet, be sure to check out their engagement blog. It was a rainy day last year too and also so beautiful.

The day started for Carli at her aunt's house with all of her bridesmaids and mom. It was a quiet, peaceful morning with lots of excitement. Carli's sister and mom helped her get dressed into her classic satin wedding gown. Carli's earrings were custom-made and absolutely stunning. Meanwhile, Justin and his groomsmen were getting ready at the Royal Park Hotel and starting the day with a celebratory toast.

We made our way to Meadow Brook Hall where Carli's mom and sister helped place her beautiful veil so she was fully ready for her first look with Justin. As the rain began to trickle on and off, we found the perfect spot indoors.

For their first look, Carli and Justin met in one of the many stunning dining rooms at Meadow Brook Hall. They both were a little teary-eyed as they took in the moment of seeing each other for the first time. The dreamy window light silhouetted them perfectly. It was such a sweet and tender moment. Once they had a few quiet moments together, we joined the rest of the wedding party to capture everyone together. Carli and Justin's wedding party was filled with some of the kindest and sweetest people who were so eager to celebrate the couple. We managed a few photos outside before retreating back indoors to finish portraits with the wedding party.

Due to the unpredictable rain, Carli and Justin made the decision to forego their outdoor ceremony plans and move the ceremony inside. While it wasn't what they planned, there was no amount of clear umbrellas that would have been enough to keep everyone dry with the sideways rain that was moving through.

With everyone comfortably seated indoors, it was finally time for these two to say "I do." The wedding ceremony was officiated by a friend of the couple and Carli and Justin shared personally written vows. Their vows spoke of their commitment to choosing each other every day and being there for one another. Both Carli and Justin spoke so beautifully and from the heart. They sealed their commitment with a kiss and it was time for cocktail hour.

As guests enjoyed cocktails and passed hors d'oeuvres, I snuck the couple off for a few photos in the garden now that the rain had cleared. With the lush gardens still in bloom and the water fountain flowing, Carli and Justin looked straight out of a fairy tale. Once they joined their guests for cocktail hour, I headed to the tent to prepare for their grand entrance. With the draping from the ceiling, twinkle lights intertwined with greenery, and classic black, white, and gold accents, the reception area was incredible. Carli and Justin had a custom wedding graphic designed to represent their love story that they added to a card and set at each place setting. It was such a unique touch and a great way for guests to learn more about them as a couple.

Carli and Justin shared a few words, thanking everyone for their love and support on their wedding day. Justin's best man shared a speech that included anecdotes about how he knew Carli and Justin were made to last. Carli's sister shared sweet stories from their childhood and a touching story about their dad, who passed shortly before the wedding. While his presence was greatly missed, I am sure he would have loved to see his memory being honored through joy and family.

After dinner, it was time to open the dance floor. They started with their first dance and family dances, before inviting everyone to join them to get the party started. There was no shortage of eclectic and fun dance moves on this dance floor, everyone had a great time together!

Congratulations, Carli and Justin! May you always feel the love and joy in your marriage just as you did on your wedding day - even when things don't go quite as planned.

All my love,