Romantic Marygrove Conservancy Wedding | Rachel + Max
When you think of a Marygrove Conservancy wedding, ethereal architecture, collegiate gothic charm, and intimate romance immediately come to mind. Rachel and Max’s Detroit wedding captured all of that and more. With just 25 of their closest family and friends, their celebration was small in size but overflowing with love, intention, and breathtaking beauty.
An Early Fall Wedding in Detroit
I had the honor of being the second photographer for Kali Steenbergh (222 Photography) in capturing Rachel and Max’s autumn wedding at Marygrove Conservancy. As someone who has captured over 40 weddings, this couple, venue, and day is one that sticks out in my memory.
Rachel and Max chose early fall for their wedding day, a season that paired perfectly with the Marygrove Conservancy’s historic setting. The air had a bit more bite to it than usual for September, and the leaves were still green and full of life, but some were beginning to fall. The autumn season matched Marygrove Conservancy so well, with its collegiate gothic revival architecture. It was a brief, intimate wedding of about 25 people total, full of meaning to the couple. The ceremony took place outside within the old-English, ethereal Keenan Courtyard with the most stunning lighting throughout the day.
The venue’s collegiate gothic revival architecture completely transported myself and guests to another world, offering a secluded and romantic backdrop. It’s no wonder Rachel and Max fell in love with the location. Their choice of Marygrove Conservancy wasn’t just about beauty — it was about history, atmosphere, and the chance to celebrate in a space that felt both grand and deeply personal.
Why Marygrove Conservancy Was the Perfect Choice
For couples considering a Marygrove Conservancy wedding, versatility is key. While Rachel and Max exchanged vows in the outdoor courtyard, the venue also offers Denk Chapman Hall — a dramatic wood-paneled space with vaulted ceilings, a grand piano, and a statement fireplace. We used this room for a few bridal party shots and portraits of Rachel and Max with the piano.
Though the couple opted for an off-site reception, Marygrove Conservancy also has Theresa Maxis Alumnae Hall available for couples who want to host both their ceremony and reception in one location.
Every detail of the campus is filled with character and old-world charm. Rachel and Max prioritized extra photography time to explore multiple spots on the grounds, making sure their memories reflected the venue’s stunning craftsmanship.
PERSONAL DETAILS THAT MADE THE DAY UNIQUE
Rachel’s bridal look was unforgettable. She wore a vintage-inspired gown paired with delicate feathers in her hair — an ethereal style that mirrored both her personality and the venue’s charm. The wedding party carried the autumn palette of oranges, browns, and deep reds, while Rachel’s bouquet tied it all together in rich seasonal tones.
One of the most heartfelt moments came during their unity candle ceremony. Rather than just lighting the candle themselves, Rachel and Max invited every guest to participate. Starting from the back of the aisle, each family member lit the candle of the person in front of them until the flame reached the couple. Together, Rachel and Max used their candles to light one shared flame — a symbol of love, family, and unity.
Adding to the fun, the couple’s playful spirit shined when they jumped into a blow-up brain (yes, you read that right!) because a brain-health organization happened to be on campus that day. It was a quirky and joy-filled moment that perfectly represented their easygoing nature. What is a wedding if not random, unexpected memories made?
CAPTURING THE DAY FROM A UNIQUE ANGLE
As the second photographer, assisting 222 Photography, I made it a priority that Rachel and Max had images that were as unique as their wedding itself.
Before the ceremony, I scouted around the location to see where I could capture a unique vantage point of the service. I noticed a window in a stairwell above where Rachel and Max would be standing.
Come ceremony time, I ducked inside for an instant to head upstairs and was able to capture this photo below — a bird’s eye perspective of their celebration of love that Rachel and Max would have never experienced in the moment, but one that beautifully reflects the grandeur of their Marygrove Conservancy wedding.
If you’re soon to be wed at Marygrove and looking for photos like these, please reach out. I would love to learn about your dream day.
WRAPPING UP RACHEL + MAX’S CONSERVANCY WEDDING
Rachel and Max’s day was everything a wedding should be: personal, meaningful, and full of character. The Marygrove Conservancy provided the perfect backdrop, combining timeless gothic architecture with versatile event spaces and old-world charm.
If you’re dreaming of a wedding venue in Detroit that blends history, beauty, and romance, a Marygrove Conservancy wedding may be exactly what you’re looking for. Get in touch today to book your photography at Marygrove Conservancy.
My vow to you is to photograph your love as it is, delivering true-to-color images that feel like a genuine representation of your story.
Vendors:
Lead Photographer - 222 Photography (Kali Steenbergh)
Second Photographer - Alaina Miller Photography
Venue - Marygrove Conservancy
