As a Detroit wedding photographer, I’ll never tire of the iconic downtown wedding venues in the city and Angela & John’s Detroit’s State Savings Bank was no exception. Their day was a perfect sunny, winter day and they both started the morning getting ready in different places. Angela got ready at the Shinola Hotel while John got ready at the venue, just a short drive away.
Angela and John met when they were both assigned to the same section and unit of the military. They started out as friends for some time. Then, they were supposed to go out to dinner for John’s birthday with another mutual friend who never made it in the end. So it became a night for just the two of them. The next day, John sent flowers to Angela’s office and they’ve been together ever since.
Angela and John chose to do a first-look and exchanged personal vows on Shinola Hotel’s terrace. As a wedding photographer, it’s always such an honor to be a part of any couple’s first look and such a privilege to witness their personal vows. Those moments are always some of my favorites from any wedding day. Without the pressure of being in front of guests, I find couples are much more open and relaxed when exchanging vows privately. If you’re nervous about reading your vows in front of an audience, exchanging vows before or after the ceremony, privately, is always a great alternative.
After their vows, we went to the Detroit Institute of Arts for photos with their wedding party before making our way to the State Savings Bank.
Angela and John’s ceremony was held in front of the vault doors at the State Savings Bank under the high ceilings of the former bank. They were married by a sergeant of their first military unit where they met; someone who’s know the two of them and their relationship for quite some time, making for a very sweet, insightful and personal ceremony. And of course they celebrated on the dance floor with all of their guests after dinner, speeches and their first dance.
Angela and John’s Detroit State Savings Bank is an example of the stunning and iconic downtown Detroit wedding venues that are unique to this midwestern city. (Almost as unique as their pajama party engagement photos at the Foundation Hotel). State Savings Bank is a classic and timeless wedding venue, perfect for the non-ballroom bride. If you love classic Detroit wedding venues that aren’t a hotel ballroom, you might also love Brittni and Dan’s wedding at the Detroit Opera House.
The Dream Team:
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