Init and Eric’s beginning sounds like the sweetest Christmastime Hallmark movie. It’s complete with a serendipitous meeting at a restaurant, followed by a day date all around Detroit that ended with a knowing glance to one another that strongly stated they were made for each other. Swoon. Fast forward to their wedding planning, Init and Eric wanted a strong southern Mediterranean theme woven throughout as both of their families hailed from that region of Europe. Hints of lavender, olive leaves, and simplicity were added to the Colony Club’s Louis XIV ornate interior. Stephanie Kaslly Photography showcased the pops of blush and other differing shades of pink and peach, especially found in Designs by Guzzardo’s florals. The pastel addition maintained a degree of whimsy in the couple’s classic wedding motif. Weddings like these can just never do any wrong.
In their own words
How did you meet?
We met by chance at a nice restaurant downtown Birmingham, Michigan. A few days later, Eric asked me to join him on a date in downtown Detroit. Unbeknownst to me, he had planned a day-long date. Our date started by going to watch the Tigers’s game (hometown baseball team), followed by an afternoon walk to the Detroit Riverfront, stopping by some of Eric’s favorite spots in the city. We toured through the Guardian Building, the DIA, and I wasn’t sure if I was more amazed by the beauty of the history, art and design of the buildings or the fact that I was falling in love with a man that I just met a few days prior.
Our day ended by taking our dog Winston to a community park; a field filled with overgrown grass. While our dog ran wild, we sat on a tree log, the sun was beaming yellow and orange hues. We both closed our eyes, and as the summer breeze blew through me, I felt a sense of calm and pure happiness. We both knew on that very moment that we were made for each other.
What is your proposal story?
Eric proposed at Belle Isle Park, on the Detroit River, a cold icy day January 1st 2018. We went for a walk there with out dog Winston. The first day of a new year, and the first day of sharing our lives together.
What was the most important to the two of you while planning? Was there anything that you chose to splurge on or skip?
The most important part of planning the wedding for us was to make sure that we both were truly involved with every small detail. Eric was such an amazing partner and we had a lot of fun meeting our vendor, and turning our vision into reality. We really enjoyed learning more about flowers, photography, lighting and practicing for our first dance.
What were your favorite parts of the day?
My favorite parts of the day were walking down the aisle towards Eric. I didn’t see anyone in the conservatory except my parents which were holding my hands, and my husband waiting for me.
Another favorite part was kissing Eric and calling him husband after the ceremony ended; and he started crying with happiness.
Another favorite moment was dancing traditional Albanian music. It brought all the guest together, holding hands, dancing in a circle and saying “Opa”.
Do you have any advice for couples planning their weddings now?
Enjoy every moment of making your vision into reality and don’t stress out about the small details. On the day, what you will remember is looking at your soulmate’s eyes and feeling true happiness.