By Tracey Moro / Photography by Kari Dawson Photography
Theirs is a true love story with all the romance of a novel. “I’ve never loved someone so much,” said Stephanie Badalamenti. “I saw him as someone I wanted to build a future with, like he was my person.”
Both Stephanie, originally of Shelby Township and Massimo Badalamenti, of Clinton Township, are part Italian, very social and love to laugh, giving them lots in common. However it was their love for family and how important family it is to each of them that created the bond that will now last them a lifetime.
After meeting in the summer of 2019, Stephanie and Massimo’s love grew to an engagement in February of 2022, with the wedding following in 2023. The whole day was extremely traditional – and magical – from beginning to end. “It was the best day ever,” said Stephanie, whose bridal party included 17 plus a flower girl and ring bearer, each a cousin’s child.
Starting with the church ceremony, both Stephanie and Massimo wanted a traditional Catholic service and chose Saints Peter & Paul Jesuit Church, with photos after taken at the Detroit Library. “The party bus time was absolutely a great idea,” said Stephanie.
The couple chose Andiamo in Warren for the reception, with a traditional receiving line during the cocktail hour, with not so traditional pulled pork tacos offered as an appetizer for guests.
“Overall, our menu was very traditional Italian fare, including both red and white sauce pasta, filet and Sicilian chicken,” said Stephanie. “The midnight snack included a French fry bar with all kinds of toppings, which was amazing.”
“I had never been to Andiamo for a wedding but we both loved their food,” said Stephanie who added how much she loved how (the hall) was set up. Andiamo’s hall boasts a full circle dance floor, creating plenty of space for the couple and the guests to dance and have fun, with plenty of seating surrounding the dance floor. “The circle made me feel like a princess – it was very cool, we were both so focused on us.”
Dancing was expected, with the eight-piece band, the Chrasherz, creating great ambiance. Florist Lena Moradian did all the decor. “Everything was amazing,” added Stephanie, “I wish I could relive the day, it was the best day, so magical.”
Local Vendors:
Venue – Andiamo, Warren
Florist – Lena’s Flowers and Designs
Photography – Kari Dawson, Bruce Township
