Friday morning. I woke up, skipped my usual slow coffee routine, and couldn’t wait to get started. I even bypassed my normal scroll through Facebook—something that never happens—because I was just that excited. This wasn’t just any typical Friday or typical wedding day. This was Shelley and Joey’s Detroit wedding.
Shelley and Joey share something special. That undeniable connection you can feel in every glance, every smile. When we met for their engagement session (which you should definitely check out before scrolling through the rest of the photos here), I may have skipped a little out of excitement. Yes, it’s a thing I do when I get truly excited about a couple. And can we talk about Shelley’s freckles? They’re absolutely adorable.
But before we dive into their beautiful wedding day, we need to rewind to how it all started. As Shelley recalls, their story began thanks to a mutual friend.
“I was away at college at Western Michigan University, and Joey was attending Wayne County Community College. Although we both grew up downriver—Joey in Wyandotte and me in Woodhaven—we had never crossed paths. We started chatting online, and after several months, Joey visited his close friend Rob, who’s now his best man, at WMU. That’s when we met in person, and the rest is history.”
Now, let’s get back to the wedding day.
The morning was electric with anticipation. I arrived in Detroit to plan where the first look would take place before the ceremony at The Roostertail. The Courtyard by Marriott, conveniently located off of Jefferson, made it easy to find amazing spots for photos. The sun was shining brightly, but I was craving shade—until I spotted the rooftop with a perfect view of the iconic Detroit skyline. It was a no-brainer. The first look on that rooftop was absolutely stunning, and we soaked up the warm summer sun. After the rooftop portraits, we moved on to some more beautiful shots before the ceremony.
Shelley and Joey’s ceremony took place on The Roostertail’s gorgeous patio, overlooking the Detroit River. The day was nothing short of perfect, with emotions running high during the heartfelt speeches. And then came the party! From the incredible meal (with a margarita station that absolutely stole the show) to the packed dance floor, this celebration was one for the books. And that group shot of the bride and groom with all their guests? Simply priceless.
The night was filled with laughter, dancing, and pure joy. It’s hard to leave a party this good, but eventually, I made my way home late—just another sign of an unforgettable wedding.
Shelley and Joey, your wedding was spectacular. Congratulations on your vows! Here’s to a lifetime of happiness and love together.
Second Camera: Janell Evans
Hotel: Courtyard Detroit Downtown
Stationary: Wedding Paper Divas
Hair and Makeup: Daybreak Salon & Spa
Ceremony and Reception Location: Roostertail Detroit
Floral Design: Donna from One of a Kind Creations
Shelley’s Dress: A Maggie Sottero Design from Bella Donna’s in Wyandotte.
Ceremony Music and Party MC: Metro Music Events and Entertainment
Cake: Cakes by Stephanie
