If you’re dreaming of a modern, stylish wedding in Metro Detroit, a Zana wedding might be the perfect fit. L & G’s day was the ultimate blend of chic city energy, meaningful tradition, and an unforgettable luxury restaurant reception. Its exactly the kind of wedding that proves you don’t need a ballroom to throw an incredible party.
From getting ready at the sleek Daxton Hotel, to portraits at Cranbrook in the rain, to a Greek Orthodox ceremony and a vibey reception at Zana, this wedding had personality from start to finish.
Getting Ready at the Daxton Hotel
The day began at the Daxton Hotel, one of Birmingham’s most stylish boutique hotels and a dream location for wedding prep. Clean lines, beautiful natural light, and thoughtful design details made it perfect for getting ready photos.
One of the highlights was their first look in the Daxton’s iconic hallway—a long, modern corridor with soft lighting and neutral tones that feels straight out of an editorial shoot. It was intimate, emotional, and effortlessly cool.
Rainy Portraits at Cranbrook (and Why They Were Perfect)
Next stop: Cranbrook—and yes, it was raining. But honestly? The rain made everything better.
The stone architecture, quiet gardens, and overcast skies created such a romantic, cinematic mood. Umbrellas, misty air, and muted tones gave the photos a timeless, European feel. Proof that you don’t need perfect weather for perfect wedding photos.
A Greek Orthodox Ceremony Full of Meaning
The couple chose to honor tradition with a Greek Orthodox ceremony at a local church, surrounded by family and close friends. The ceremony was rich with symbolism—crowns, candles, blessings—and incredibly emotional.
This part of the day grounded everything. It brought depth and meaning before transitioning into a very modern, city-style celebration.
A Zana Wedding Reception in Birmingham
Ending the night at Zana was the perfect contrast to the traditional ceremony. Zana is one of the most modern restaurant wedding venues in Michigan—dark, moody, elevated, and effortlessly cool.
The food? Unreal. Think elevated Mediterranean-inspired dishes, beautiful plating, and a dining experience that felt more like a high-end dinner party than a typical wedding reception.
The vibe was intimate but high energy. Candlelight, cocktails flowing, guests packed onto the dance floor between courses—it felt like a private event at the hottest restaurant in Birmingham.
Why Zana Is Perfect for a Modern Michigan Wedding
If you’re planning a restaurant wedding in Michigan, Zana checks all the boxes:
- Ideal for smaller, more intimate guest counts
- Perfect for couples who love food, design, and city energy
- No traditional “wedding venue” feel
- Incredible for editorial-style photography
- Built-in atmosphere (no over-decorating needed)
It’s especially perfect for couples who want something non-traditional, fashion-forward, and experience-driven.
Planning a Modern Wedding in Metro Detroit?
This wedding is such a great example of how to build a day that feels personal and intentional:
- Boutique hotel for getting ready
- Editorial first look
- Iconic photo locations (even in the rain)
- Meaningful ceremony
- Chic restaurant reception
Whether you’re planning a wedding at Zana, a restaurant wedding in Michigan, or a modern celebration anywhere in Metro Detroit, these are the kinds of days I love documenting—stylish, emotional, and full of real moments.
As a Michigan wedding photographer serving Detroit, Birmingham, and beyond, I specialize in capturing weddings that feel natural, elevated, and true to you.
