A Night at The Henry Ford Museum

February 13, 2019

Newlyweds Kara and Christian Bessolos held their big day at the historical Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn.

By Cassie Kunze

Photography by Alora Rachelle

Psychologist Kara, 25, and police officer Christian Bessolos, 26, met while in college at Central Michigan University when Christian asked his friend about the cute girl (Kara) in their psychology class. After introducing himself, Kara says “the rest was history.”

Fast forward to Aug. 31, 2018, the day of Kara and Christian’s dream wedding at The Henry Ford museum in Dearborn.

The ceremony took place outside on a sunny, 75-degree day in the Pennsylvania Courtyard. They were offered a wedding coordinator through the venue, and Kara says she found it incredibly helpful having someone keep the planning on track. “You have a lot on your plate, especially as the bride,” Kara says. “It all becomes a lot to balance.” She recommends relying on your planner and loved ones for help, so you don’t get too caught up in planning.

When choosing her dress, Kara says she knew she wanted a slimmer-fitting gown that showcased her natural beauty rather than the dress being the focus. She fell in love with her dress from Elizabeth’s Bridal Manor in Northville when she saw it. The top featured lace with an open back, while the bottom was made of a simple silk fabric. Kara says her favorite detail of her dress was the beautiful train that completed her “bridal look.” Kara’s “something blue” was her garter — a great way to incorporate the tradition while hiding the accent of blue!

Kara’s bridesmaids wore flowy, blush gowns from Vera Wang and the flower bouquets featured a variety of roses, hydrangeas and greenery. Christian and the groomsmen wore tuxedos. Christian’s was two-toned navy and black with a black bow tie, while the groomsmen wore all black and a tie.

Kara and Christian decided to write their vows to make the ceremony feel more personal. “It was so comforting hearing each other’s feelings that day,” Kara says. “We both teared up. Reading those raw emotions in front of family and friends is such a big deal!”

After the ceremony, everyone was invited into the lobby for a cocktail hour while the wedding party took pictures with the photographer. The reception soon followed inside the museum, where guests had private access to the entire museum for the evening. The Bessolos say they loved that their dinner was held underneath an airplane and aside priceless historical pieces like former President John F. Kennedy’s limousine.

The Bessolos, who now live in Royal Oak, chose to use all local vendors for their reception. For dinner, guests were offered a choice between sun-dried balsamic chicken, lemon beurre-blanc salmon or quinoa cakes.

“The chef at The Henry Ford museum was incredible,” Christian says. He adds the energy and atmosphere for the guests is important. “Make sure they have good food in their stomachs, so they can dance all night!”

Kara says one of the more unique aspects of their wedding was how they did their guest book. “My husband and I are big travelers,” she says. “So instead of a traditional guest book, we had an atlas available for our guests to sign.” Guests were encouraged to sign a location they have traveled to with recommendations of activities to do when visiting. “We have already booked our next location and can’t wait to check off more places on our bucket list,” Kara says.

Kara and Christian say their overall experience was incredible, and the day goes by so much faster than they could have imagined. When asked if they had any advice for other couples planning a wedding, Kara says “to stress less.” She adds to not forget why you are planning this event: to be with one another. “It is such a fun time to look back on (the memories),” she says. “Being around such love and support is the best thing a couple could ask for.”

Wedding Details

Date: Aug. 31, 2018

Venue: Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn

Florist: Flowers & Gifts by Renee

Caterer: Henry Ford Museum catering

Cake: For the Love of Sugar in Detroit

Entertainment/DJ: Mainstreet Soul

Dress: Elizabeth’s Bridal Manor in Northville

Shoes: Vince Camuto’s Imagine line

Rings: Diamond Vault of Troy.

Hair/makeup: The Makeup Loft in Plymouth

Tux or Suit: The Tux Shop on Woodward in Birmingham.