Detroit mornings have a rhythm all their own—the light, the sound of traffic starting up, the city quietly coming to life. On this particular summer morning, that rhythm felt extra special as Mara and Alex’s wedding day began to unfold.
The Morning at The Westin Book Cadillac
The day started at The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit, a classic downtown hotel that always feels elegant and calm. Upstairs, the suites buzzed with excitement—coffee cups, laughter, and a few happy tears as everyone got ready. Meanwhile, Flowers for Dreams and Beautiful Day Planning were already downtown, setting up for what would become an incredible celebration later that evening.
Mara opened a few thoughtful gifts, took a deep breath, and slipped into her gown just as Alex was straightening his tie down the hall. Their first look was genuine and emotional—Alex’s face said it all. From there, we wandered through downtown, finding soft light and quiet corners for portraits. Detroit’s streets always make a beautiful backdrop for days like this.
Ceremony at Adat Shalom Synagogue
Soon the party buses rolled out toward Adat Shalom Synagogue, a place deeply meaningful to Alex’s family. His grandfather once served as the cantor there, and that connection made the day even more special.
Before the ceremony, the families gathered for portraits, and then everyone came together for the Ketubah signing—a moment full of laughter and happy tears. The traditional ceremony that followed was surrounded by romantic florals, wine saved from Alex’s birth, and the traditional glass breaking.
When Mara and Alex were pronounced married, the joy in the room was impossible to miss.
Celebration at Elevate at One Campus Martius
After the ceremony, everyone headed back downtown to celebrate at Elevate at One Campus Martius, with skyline views and a golden summer sunset. Guests enjoyed cocktails on the 16th floor, taking in the city—it couldn’t have been a better evening.
Mara and Alex made a high-energy, East Coast-style entrance that rolled right into their first dance, and they completely nailed it. From that moment on, the night never slowed down. They cut the cake (and made sure everyone had dessert first) before the Dan Rafferty Band kicked off the dance floor. The rest of the night was exactly what a wedding should be—joyful, relaxed, and filled with great energy.
Mara and Alex’s wedding was everything you hope a Detroit summer celebration will be: full of love, family, and unforgettable views at Elevate at One Campus Martius.
Wedding Planning: Beautiful Day Planning
Venue: Elevate (Part of Bedrock Events)
Band: E3 / Dan Rafferty Band (E3 Detroit)
Catering: 2 Unique
Floral: Flowers For Dreams
Videography: Sider Mill
Wedding Cake: Sweet Bree’s
Hair: Regina Raytman
Makeup: Katherine Green and Alayna with Todd’s Room
Dance Floor: Elegant Events
Linens, Drapes, Table & Chairs: Linen Hero
Party Bus Transportation: Dream Limousine
Shuttle Bus Transportation: Allstar Chauffeured Services
Valet: Star Trax
