As a Catholic wedding photographer who loves documenting classic, editorial-style celebrations, Riley and JD’s day immediately comes to mind when I think about timeless wedding inspiration. Capturing their Detroit wedding day was such a joy. With a ceremony at the breathtaking Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament and a black-and-white themed reception at the iconic War Memorial, every detail of their day was thoughtful, elegant, and full of heartfelt moments.

From the moment I arrived at the Cathedral, I could feel the sense of reverence and excitement. The grandeur of the soaring ceilings and intricate stained glass made the perfect backdrop for Riley and JD’s vows. (Not to mention the Cathedral was one of the designated Jubilee churches in Michigan… how cool is that!!) As someone who photographs Catholic weddings regularly, I’m always deeply moved by the sacredness of the Mass, and this one was especially emotional. Riley looked radiant walking down the aisle, and JD’s face completely lit up when he saw her. One of my favorite moments to photograph during Catholic mass is the quiet exchange of glances between the couple, and Riley and JD shared so many sweet, unspoken looks that spoke volumes about their love.

After the ceremony, we made our way to the War Memorial for their reception. The venue PERFECTLY matched their vision for a classic, black-and-white celebration. The crisp black tuxedos, the sleek black and white tablescapes, and the stunning florals created a cohesive look that will never go out of style. 

Throughout the evening, it was clear how much love surrounded Riley and JD. From the emotional speeches to the packed dance floor, every moment was filled with joy and celebration. Instead of the traditional garter toss, Riley and JD cranked up the energy with a T-shirt toss and their guests went wild! They were laughing, jumping, and diving for the shirts, and it instantly turned the dance floor into a full-on party. It was such a fun, unexpected twist that fit their high-energy celebration perfectly.

One thing I always remind my couples is that the best photos come from truly living your day; laughing, crying, dancing, and Riley and JD embraced every second of it.

And if you’re dreaming of your own Catholic wedding filled with love, meaning, and beauty, I would be honored to capture it for you. Contact me here to get started — I can’t wait to hear more about your plans!