Traditional isn't Boring: A Classic Grand Rapids Church Wedding and Reception
Sometimes, sticking with what’s tried and true means the best possible results. You know how we girls grew up imagining our storybook wedding at a church and a classic reception. Well, times may have changed, but traditional details never go out of style! I loved the way that Kyla and Ty took the usual church wedding and spun it on its head with gorgeous details that made the celebration truly their own.
GRAND RAPIDS CATHOLIC WEDDING CEREMONY
Kyla and Ty’s wedding took place on a gorgeous July day at the Basilica of Saint Adelbert in downtown Grand Rapids, MI. The Basilica was founded as part of the Saint Adalbert Aid Society in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1872. The purpose of that society was to assist new Polish immigrants to Grand Rapids in finding housing and employment, and Saint Adelbert is the patron saint of Poland. The word “basilica” means royalty in Greek, and this parish was the first Catholic church to be designated with that honor in the state of Michigan. Today, it remains few basilicas throughout the United States.
The basilica boasts vibrant stained glass windows throughout the parish which depict both the stations of the cross and other traditional religious imagery. The windows, along with the ornate decorative features of the basilica, made an incredibly beautiful backdrop for Kyla and Ty’s celebration! The lavender, mauve and green undertones in the bridal party’s dresses and floral motifs blended perfectly with the design of the church. It was an absolutely stunning ceremony!
From there, we headed to the Ballroom at City Flats Hotel for our cocktail hour and reception. This LEED-certified hotel features absolutely stunning views of the downtown Grand Rapids skyline. It’s one of the best places to host a reception, in my opinion! It features 1920’s Italian Renaissance styling with walnut paneling and wrought iron railings. I love the marble floors and the ornate woodwork, and they complimented the dreamscape of the wedding’s colors so well! The bride and groom opted for both cakes and cupcakes in delicious flavors such as salted caramel, red velvet, German chocolate, and vanilla raspberry. They were absolutely amazing! They also had a live band who worked to keep the energy flowing through the party all night long - what an incredible night! I shoot lots of weddings but this one was definitely memorable.
In between the ceremony and reception, the bride and groom and I enjoyed getting some shots along the streets of Grand Rapids at Monroe Center. Grand Rapids truly is the perfect little city - it boasts the picturesque tall buildings and architecture of a larger city, but without the larger crowds that can sometimes get in the way of getting great photographs. I’m so lucky to consider Michigan my home so that I can take photos in this city on a regular basis!
BOOK YOUR WEST MICHIGAN WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
Are you interested in a traditional church wedding like Kyla and Ty? Or are you more offbeat and want to make a unique celebration that’s meaningful to you and your partner? I work with couples from all walks of life, with different ideas of what their perfect magical day looks like. I’d love to help you and your beloved plan the perfect experience and capture it all on film so that your family can enjoy the memories for years to come!
The first step is to book a free consultation with me at the link below on my website. Let’s meet and get brainstorming on your perfect wedding celebration - I can’t wait to be your trusted partner!
