Megan and Austin’s Shinola Hotel wedding was the definition of classic, sophisticated, and elevated. From the intentional details and timeless attire to the champagne tower and rooftop portraits, every part of their day was beautifully thought out. It felt stylish without trying too hard, emotional in all the right places, and full of those little in-between moments that make a wedding day unforgettable.

When I think back to their day, I think about how worry-free and easy everything felt. There was certainly a plan, but the day moved with so much ease. The whole celebration was filled with love, and both Austin and Megan’s families were some of the kindest people I’ve ever worked with. The decor? Sophisticated, elegant, and completely true to them.

The Night Before: A Shinola Hotel Wedding Welcome Party

Before their Shinola Hotel wedding, Megan and Austin chose to host an intimate welcome party. I absolutely love when couples do this. Here’s why: a gathering the night before the wedding gives you space to slow down, connect with your people, and ease into the celebration. Instead of trying to squeeze in conversations during the rush of the wedding day, you get intentional time to share a drink, hug your guests, and really soak it all in.

Photographically, it’s also a beautiful way to capture more of your story. From cocktails and heartfelt toasts to stylish outfits and quiet moments between the two of you, a welcome party adds another layer to your wedding weekend. These photos always feel relaxed, joyful, and rich with connection—just like these images from the evening before Megan and Austin’s wedding at Shinola Hotel.

The Details, Getting Ready, First Looks, & Portraits

Megan and Austin’s Shinola Hotel wedding began with a peaceful, slow morning in the heart of downtown Detroit. Megan wore a lace corset gown with a full tulle skirt—elegant, effortless, and completely her. Austin kept it timeless in a black tux and bow tie. She did a first look with her dad on the terrace before meeting Austin in one of the hotel’s iconic checkered hallways. His reaction was so real and emotional. Afterward, they explored the rooftop ceremony space together in The Birdy Room, taking in the florals and glass atrium before the day fully unfolded—just the two of them, soaking it all in.

After taking in their ceremony space, we captured a few wedding party photos with the entire group. Megan and Austin’s wedding party looked timeless against the setting and soft greenery throughout the space. The black tuxes and black gowns paired with white florals gave everything that refined, editorial feel—classic and sophisticated without being too traditional. If you’re dreaming of a Shinola Hotel wedding that blends modern style with downtown charm, take notes.

A Classic Shinola Hotel Wedding Ceremony in The Birdy Room

For their Shinola Hotel wedding ceremony, Megan and Austin chose The Birdy Room—and honestly, it’s hard to imagine a more beautiful space. With floor-to-ceiling glass, hanging greenery, and clean architectural lines, the room feels fresh and elevated while still intimate. The mix of natural light and city views gave everything a soft glow, and the floral installs brought a lush, timeless feel to the space.

The ceremony itself was emotional in the best way—personal vows, happy tears, and the kind of joy that fills a room. Guests stayed fully tuned in, with an energy that felt warm, relaxed, and genuine from beginning to end.

A Shinola Hotel Cocktail Hour & Wedding Reception in Bixby Hall

Before the reception began, cocktail hour featured their signature drinks—complete with custom monograms. It was such a thoughtful detail that made things feel even more personal and elevated. Megan and Austin’s Shinola Hotel wedding reception was held in the stunning Bixby Hall. With tall windows, custom monogram signage, and florals overflowing, the space was gorgeous. I always love when couples choose a reception room reveal before guests arrive. Those quiet moments to soak it all in feel so special, and theirs overflowed with emotion and joy.

We stepped away a few times throughout the night for portraits, and it gave them little pockets of calm to reconnect amidst the celebration. Megan changed into a sleek black and white reception dress that was so striking, and they kicked off the party with a champagne tower that felt both timeless and playful. It was a night that looked just as good as it felt.

Thinking About a Shinola Hotel Wedding? Let’s Talk.

There’s a reason the Shinola Hotel has earned a top spot in my list of favorite Detroit wedding venues. She’s classy. She’s sophisticated. She is the moment. From the beautiful natural light and intentional design to the way every space feels elevated without trying too hard. This is a venue that truly has it all.

If you’re dreaming up your own Detroit wedding and searching for a photographer who values style, connection, and documenting moments with intention, you can learn more about me here. And if it feels like we’d be a great fit, I’d love for you to inquire with me. In the meantime, be sure to head over to the blog to see more real wedding days!

A Note From Megan & Austin:

“Patty is AMAZING! My wife and I were lucky enough to have her capture our wedding weekend last year and we couldn’t be happier. Her attention to detail, technical skills, and experience are obvious when you look at her portfolio. However, her kind heart, can-do attitude, and her willingness to go above and beyond make her stand above the rest. Our wedding photos are everything we had hoped for and more, and it’s all thanks to Patty. Also, side note, she brought her vintage film camera un-promoted and they ended up being some of our favorite pictures. Such a cool touch. We simply CANNOT recommend Patty any more. She would get 6 stars if this Google machine allowed.”

Patty Leonor | Destination & Detroit Wedding Photographer

Vendors:

Planner: Belle Event Co
Photographer: Patty Leonor
Videography: Sight & Sound Wedding Videography
Venue: Shinola Hotel
Florals: Stem Event Design
Hair: Isabelle O’Neil Beauty
Makeup: Team Glam Detroit
Photobooth: Rose Lily Booth
Stationary: The Knot