Old-Hollywood Colony Club Wedding in Downtown Detroit, MI | Kathryn + Ryan

As Detroit wedding photographers, we’re lucky to witness so many meaningful celebrations, but there was something especially unforgettable about this Colony Club wedding in the heart of downtown Detroit. From the very beginning, Kathryn and Ryan’s day was layered with intention, emotion, and a deep sense of family that carried through every moment.

Sunlight streamed through the stained glass in a shower of color, falling on Kathryn and Ryan as they knelt before the altar. The rites of the traditional Catholic Mass were underway, moving them ever closer to the moment that they had both waited so long for. And then, in an instant, the usual revered silence was broken by a joyful coo. A knowing smile immediately slipped onto Kathryn and Ryan’s faces, as they were reminded of the third member of their family, dear William, who was watching intently from the front row. The day was finally here: William’s mommy and daddy were getting married.

Almost 80 years ago, a film was released that would forever change the romance genre: Casablanca. Little did Hollywood know that almost a century later, their film would influence and inspire the love of Kathryn and Ryan and weave its way through the entire story of their wedding day. The Westin Hotel in the heart of Detroit housed both sides of the bridal party as they spent the morning preparing for the celebration ahead. Both the bride and groom were treated to a very special visit by their son, William, whose joyful squeals and dapper fashion brought everyone around him to the verge of both laughter and tears. The Cathedral at Sweetest Heart of Mary, a staple of Detroit weddings, welcomed friends and family alike into its grand silhouette; prompting a sense of awe and wonder to wash over the guests as they all waited with baited breath for the bride to appear.

The ceremony felt like a moment and a lifetime all at once, as the conclusion of the mass found Kathryn and Ryan joined with their friends, ready to begin their downtown tour of Detroit as husband and wife. A subtle callback to their entrancing engagement shoot, the Detroit Institute of Arts, along with the surrounding architecture evoked the very same “exquisite, romantic” aesthetic that Kathryn and Ryan craved. By the time the bridal party arrived at the Colony Club, the team at Fear No More Events had finished the final touches on Kathryn’s dream for the Colony Club grand ballroom, a sleek white and gold design that emulated the couple perfectly. “It looks like you” said Jess, between the tears she and Kathryn shared as their time together had grown into a dear friendship. The crowd was more than ready to welcome to newlyweds into cocktail hour and eventually into the grand ballroom of the Colony Club, raising their cheers to the ceiling as Kathryn and Ryan awed them with stunning choreography and the kindest of “thank you”s for spending the day with them. As everyone settled into their chairs, ready for an evening of live music and lively celebration, Kathryn and Ryan slipped away one last time for a portrait session they hoped would evoke the same timeless romance that their favorite movie “Casablanca” had evoked for decades and generations gone by.

Kathryn + Ryan, these ending paragraphs are never easy for us to write. After each wedding, we feel an intense combination of joy for our couple and sadness over the end of our time with them. And this time feels especially joyful…and especially sorrowful. Our time with you from zoom calls and engagement shoots to laughing in the elevator as we escorted you back to your reception contains some of our favorite memories from the past year, and we are so glad that we have already decided to continue our friendship for years to come. Here’s looking at you, Kathryn and Ryan; we’ll always have Detroit.

All our best!

J + A

Getting Ready at The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit

The morning began at The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit, where both Kathryn and Ryan prepared for the day surrounded by their closest people and, most importantly, their son, William. William’s presence brought an extra layer of joy to the morning, turning even the smallest moments into something unforgettable. It was the kind of beginning that set the tone for a wedding day centered on connection, intention, and love.

Sweetest Heart of Mary Church Wedding Ceremony

Kathryn and Ryan’s ceremony at Sweetest Heart of Mary Church was nothing short of breathtaking. Known as one of the most iconic Catholic churches in Detroit, the space itself created an atmosphere of reverence and awe from the moment guests stepped inside. As the ceremony unfolded, it felt both deeply traditional and incredibly personal. The grandeur of the cathedral paired with the emotion of the moment made every glance, every vow, and every quiet exchange feel even more powerful.

Downtown Detroit Wedding Portraits

Following the ceremony, Kathryn and Ryan made their way through downtown Detroit for portraits. With architecture that blends historic beauty and modern energy, the city offered the perfect backdrop for capturing this next chapter of their story. From iconic landmarks like the Detroit Institute of Arts to the quiet in-between moments, their portraits reflected the same effortless connection that carried them through the entire day. There was a sense of nostalgia woven into each stop, like a subtle nod to the classic romance that inspired them.

Colony Club Wedding Reception

As the celebration continued, guests made their way to the Colony Club, where Kathryn and Ryan’s vision for the evening came to life. This Colony Club wedding reception perfectly balanced timeless elegance with a fresh, modern design, creating a space that felt both elevated and inviting. From the moment the doors opened to the grand ballroom, there was an undeniable sense of excitement in the room. Every detail had been thoughtfully considered, but what stood out most was the energy. The joy, the movement, and the way Kathryn and Ryan remained fully present with each other and their guests — it was undoubtedly a night to remember for all.

All photos are property of Josh and Andrea Photography LLC.

Kathryn and Ryan’s Colony Club Wedding Team

• Photographer: Josh and Andrea Photography
• Reception Venue: Colony Club
• Planner: Fear No More Events
• Videographer: Unscripted Films
• Wedding Dress: Becker’s Bridal
• Florals: Jen House Design
• Hair Artist: Ronda Akande
• Makeup Artist: Katherine Green
• Stationary: Emily Seeley
• Cake Artist: Cakes by Stephanie
• Live Band/DJ: Bluewater Kings Band
• Catering: Colony Club
• Men’s Suits: Jos. A Bank | Calvin Klein
• Bridesmaid’s Attire: Azazie
• Transportation: Lavdas Limousines