As the shadows of the trees darkened, we even got an appearance from one of the family donkeys, who walked the table in a birthday hat before dessert (we’re still unsure whose birthday the donkey was celebrating!). Finally, the meal ended with a standing ovation from guests as Chef Sarah emerged from the outdoor kitchen to thank the crowd.

The drive down highway 94 from Detroit to Ann Arbor is a transformative one. You leave the Art Deco mosaic of Motor City highways and the clean lines turn soft, the expanse of Michigan’s farmland begins to emerge as a pastoral pastel.

The Motor City welcomed us with open arms, and we had the most incredible time creating a unique experience for fifty guests who joined us from near and far. An experience that celebrated community and craftsmanship at Woods Cathedral, a building that after seeing some rough times, was filled with joy and laughter through the memories shared at the table.