Laurie and Aj’s wedding was not one I will soon forget. First, Laurie is one of my close girlfriends. I started to tear up on the way Downtown just thinking of her in her dress – don’t worry, I held it together ;) Secondly, it was the perfect day. Both Bride and Groom were super calm, the weather was gooooorgeous and all of the details were impeccable. Lastly, this girl was so stinking secretive! She wanted to keep most of the details of the day a surprise, so I didn’t know much more about the day besides the timeline. It was totally worth the wait though! I mean…. Faygo placecards?! Amazing!

 

The running joke with the girls in the morning was all of the First Looks we had planned. First, Laurie wanted a kind of First Look with her ‘maids, where they see her all dolled up in her gown for the first time. Next was her First Look with AJ. You guys – this is why I love First Looks. I never push my couples into them, because I feel like it’s a personal choice and I respect the whole ritual of tradition, but when it happens, *sigh* it’s completely magical. Having that moment in the middle of the day where it’s just the two of you, up close and personal before everything starts is so amazing. And this one was no exception. And lastly, when I met with Laurie and AJ a few weeks before their wedding, they had mentioned that they hoped to be able to have their dog Bauer meet them at the Masonic Temple for a few shots with him, but they doubted they would be able to swing it. Well they totally pulled it off and had their few (crazy) moments with him.

 

Shooting a close friend’s wedding is so amazing. Laurie and AJ are so good together, it’s kind of scary. But I already knew that. Seeing them in this capacity, on such an important day in their story – so ridiculously, gorgeously, happy – my heart still feels all the feels. Congratulations you two – thank you for having me be a small part in your perfect day! xo

 

 

Bride: Laurie Bevevino, Staffing Partner at Google

Groom: AJ Bevevino, Director of Email Marketing at Wambatech

 5.23.2015

Detroit, Michigan

 

Describe your wedding in three words: Beautiful. Fun. Detroit.

 

Wedding colors: Black and Gold

 

Laurie’s favorite memory of the day: Seeing AJ for the first time at our first look. Tearing up just thinking about what a special moment it was for us. Second favorite was the hockey stick entrance!!

 

AJ’s favorite memory of the day: Marrying the love of my life (his words, I swear!)

 

Wedding planning advice for newly engaged couples: Wedding planning can be stressful at times, but seeing all of your hard work when you walk into the reception is completely worth it. Plan as much as you can so you can relax the day of and enjoy every minute. Best of luck to you while putting together your guest list. If you can get through that, the rest will be cake. :)

 

Honeymoon location: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

 

The Jams

Grand entrance: Detroit Rock City, Kiss – bridal party was Suit and Tie, JT :)

Cake Cutting: Detroit Rock City, Kiss

First Dance: You’re My Best Friend, Queen

Father/Daughter: Landslide, Fleetwood Mac

Mother/Son: You Raise Me Up, Josh Groban

 

 

Ceremony and Reception Location: The Masonic Temple – Detroit, Michigan

Florist: Flowers by Heidi

DJ: Mike Staff Productions

Cake: Zingerman’s Bakehouse

Bridal Gown Designer: Eugenia

Groom’s Suit: Men’s Warehouse

Hair: Angela Azur, Davinci’s in Ann Arbor

Makeup: Christine Fitzpatrick

Transportation: A-List Limousine

Bridesmaid Gowns: Studio Bridesmaid

Late Night Snack: Buddy’s Pizza & Lafayette Coney Island

Late Night Transportation: Metro Car