Shinola Hotel – Wedding Venue in Detroit

Black and white photo of groom kissing the bride's temple, in an urban setting

If you want an Iconic Shinola Hotel Wedding, this is where you’ll find everything you need to know!

This stunning hotel is situated in the heart of Detroit. The unmatched access to downtown’s top attractions while experiencing the city’s authentic character, makes it stand out from all other wedding venues in Detroit.

This opulent hotel was designed for living and sharing precious moments with excellent company. It is distinguished by a timeless sense of style, friendly service, and a fascination with exceptional craftsmanship.

So, let’s take a deeper look at why Shinola as a wedding venue is the ideal place to take vows.

History

The T.B. Rayl Company constructed the primary edifice that now houses the Shinola Hotel in 1915. Rowland was known for experimenting with new design techniques and materials. Rowland would go on to create some of Detroit’s most famous buildings, including the Guardian Building, which features Pewabic tile and sculpture by Parducci.

The rooms at the hotel are tastefully decorated with various layouts; they include handcrafted millwork, unique beds, and wallpaper inspired by patterns discovered during the refurbishment process. The property combines three new structures inspired by the historic architecture of downtown Detroit with two restored structures—the old T.B. Rayl & Co. sports goods and equipment shop and a former Singer sewing machine business.

The hotel was built to restore the two structures to their original appearance and feel so they would shine in the twenty-first century. And since people are now considering it as a wedding venue, there is no doubt that this place is all shining with vintage structure and some happy memories.

Wedding couple kissing in front of Shinola Hotel

Reception and Ceremony Spaces

If you’re on the hunt for a downtown Detroit wedding venue, look no further than the Shinola Hotel right in the city center. It’s not your average spot—expect a classy celebration with a touch of unexpected charm.

No matter your guest count, from cozy dinners to big bashes, this lively Detroit venue can handle it all. And here’s a bonus: Chef Andrew Carmellini and the NoHo Hospitality Group are in charge of the food, promising a culinary experience that matches the venue’s chic vibe. It’s the perfect place for a wedding that’s both elegant and full of pleasant surprises.

  • Bixby Hall: Their largest venue, Bixby Hall, has an elaborate white-tile roof, subtle lights, and a marble fireplace. Mirrors enhance the light and space in this magnificent dining hall, and French glass doors offer access to the outside. 100–180 persons can attend weddings and gatherings at Bixby Hall.
  • Birdy Room: The airy and spacious Birdy Room conservatory, which has soaring glass ceilings, provides a verdant and calming escape from the bustle of downtown. This sunroom-style area is ideal for drink hours, marriage ceremonies, standing receptions for up to 160 guests, and small seated gatherings for up to 70 people. It also has a private garden.
  • San Morello: Moreover, if you want to organize a very intimate yet classy ceremony for close friends and family, the private room of San Morello is perfect. High ceilings, a specific patio entry on Woodward Avenue, a standing bar, and family-style Italian dining for up to 36 people are all hallmarks of this private room.
  • The Foundry Room: It can accommodate up to 20 guests; an excellent location for the bride and bridesmaids to get ready and have breakfast. Or, the groom and groomsmen could consider this room too! If you’re having a very intimate wedding having around 20 guests, you can exchange your vows in in its cozy setting, surrounded by the closest ones.

Wedding Couple making their way to Shinola Hotel.

Shinola Hotel Wedding Cost for 2023-2024

The Shinola Hotel’s event professionals will collaborate with you or your wedding planner to facilitate every detail, whether you have a certain concept in mind or just need a little assistance along the way.

Shinota Hotel weddings may cost you around $230-$300 per guest depending on what package you opt for. These packages offer the perfect foundation for tailoring your dream wedding experience. Here are the offerings you can expect to receive from both the packages.

Standard Package – $230 per guest:

  • 5-hour event, including 4 hours for setup
  • Full Standard Bar & Wine for 5 hours
  • Tableside Wine Service
  • 4 Tasty Appetizers
  • Chef’s Market Table
  • 3-Course Family-Style Dinner
  • Front and Back of House Staffing
  • In-House Equipment (Tables, Chairs, Linen, Glassware, Flatware)

Premium Package – $300 per guest:

  • 5-hour event, including 4 hours for setup
  • Full Premium Bar & Wine for 5 hours
  • Tableside Wine Service
  • 6 Delicious Appetizers
  • Choice of Chef’s Market Table or Eastern Market Table
  • 3-Course Plated Dinner
  • Late Night Snacks
  • Front and Back of House Staffing
  • In-House Equipment (Tables, Chairs, Linen, Glassware, Flatware)

Important Notes:

  • Pricing varies by venue
  • Minimum spending required based on date, venue, and party size
  • Future pricing subject to changes
  • Rental upgrades available upon request
  • Optional menu upgrades offered
  • On-Site Ceremony Fee: $2,000
  • Additional charges: 24% Operational Fee & 6% MI State Tax
Couple embracing each other at Shinola Hotel

Food Services

Undoubtedly, the culinary experience at your wedding holds immense importance. Whether you opt for a laid-back cocktail reception or an elegant plated dinner, the food should reflect the unique essence of both partners.

Since teaming up in 2009, Carmellini, Josh Pickard, and Luke Ostrom have crafted some of the nation’s beloved restaurants, each distinguished for its exceptional food, vibrant ambiance, and impeccable service.

Chef Carmellini’s Italian restaurant is a standout, offering authentic wood-fired dishes, pizzas, and house-made pasta featuring regional, seasonal ingredients. Drawing inspiration from the coastal villages of Southern Italy and Sicily, it delivers a distinctive culinary experience. Additionally, a traditional American tavern on-site serves seasonally crafted beverages and bar snacks.

Rest assured, if you choose this hotel for your wedding, compromising on the menu and its quality won’t be a concern.

Bride twirling with the groom, at Shinola Hotel

Wedding Photoshoot Opportunities

While the photoshoot might not be the absolute centerpiece of your wedding, it certainly ranks high when it comes to capturing those special moments. Wedding photography is essential because it documents your big day, preserves cherished memories, and narrates a beautiful story that you’ll always remember.

Hotels offer an excellent backdrop for traditional portrait photography due to their typically stunning surroundings. Despite the smaller size of hotel rooms, the energy and dynamics within are unparalleled. The close quarters often lead to numerous priceless moments that are truly worth capturing, with decorations, makeup, and clothes adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

Speaking specifically about a wedding at the Shinola Hotel, imagine capturing your magical moments in Parker’s Alley, a lively dining scene, and a bustling shopping district perfect for tourists and families. The local stores and live music create a vibrant ambiance that adds character to your photos.

Moreover, the hotel itself provides fantastic opportunities for your photoshoot. Picture perfect lighting, gold leaf ceilings, and windows with a stunning view of downtown set the stage for aesthetically pleasing pictures that will beautifully complement the memories of your special day.

Bride & Groom at their Shinola Hotel Wedding.

Book Your Wedding at Shinola

To inquire about having your wedding at Shinola Hotel, there are several convenient options. You can fill out the Events and Catering Inquiry Form available on Shinola’s website. Alternatively, you may directly contact the hotel by calling 313-356-1400 or visiting them in person.

For specific inquiries related to events and catering, you can reach out to the property’s Director of Events & Catering:
Mary Catherine Moore
Email: events@shinolahospitality.com
Phone: 313.254.3400

For hotel accommodations related queries for bride & groom’s family and friends, you can contact at 313.356.1401 via phone, or sales@shinolahotel.com via email.

Shinota Hotel is situated at 1400 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226.

Rounding Up

At Shinola Hotel, your wedding day takes on a touch of magic. Picture this: the stylish vibe of Bixby Hall, the cozy intimacy of the Birdy Room, the delectable tastes at San Morello, and the industrial-chic charm of the Foundry Room. It’s a lineup of unique settings, each ready for your personal flair.

Here’s the deal – Shinola Hotel isn’t just a venue; it’s an experience. From the trendy spaces to the top-notch service, they’ve got your back for a wedding day that’s effortlessly elegant and memorable. It’s about creating a vibe that’s as special as your love story, where every detail plays a part in making your celebration uniquely yours. Shinola Hotel: where your wedding dreams get a stylish upgrade.

Check out my portfolio here!

Shinola Hotel Photos

SEND it over »

The L&L wedding experience starting from $2500

Get One Step Closer

Wedding Photographer, MI featured in