I first met Andy and Ellen this past winter after the Central Wisconsin Bridal Show. On a frigid but bright January day, we met at a local coffee shop to talk about their big day. However, their original wedding plans changed with Ellen’s acceptance into med school this upcoming fall, pushing up their plan of a winter wedding to this June- and it was magical! Then, on top of a big move, to make things even more chaotic, the Covid Pandemic threatened their wedding day. I have to say, my clients and their tenacity to push through such uncertain times with their love leaves me in awe. Whit precautions in place and saftey in mind, Andy and Ellen moved forward with their wedding day plans, and it was a perfect day.
Andy and Ellen shared a perfect and beautiful June day up at the serene Chippewa Retreat Resort! I started the morning off with the ladies where there were plenty of giggles to go around as I played with the details that were so carefully selected and passed down for their day. I absolutely adored the handwritten sermon from Ellen’s Great Grandfather and crown her Grandmother wore on her wedding day. (Ellen originally planned to wear the crown for a winter wedding, but since it didn’t quite go with a summer wedding she still included it with her details which I think was lovely!) Ellen was soon ready to slip into her gown and Andy his final touches.
Ellen and Andy chose to share an intimate first look together; under big blue skies they took some time out for just each other before going into their bridal session. With a shimmering lake and beautiful sunny skies they strolled around the resort sharing a romantic bridal session filled with lots of smiles and giggles! We invited the bridal party to come out and have some fun with photos before their ceremony.
With the sun getting closer to the horizon, guests took their seats and shortly after the bridal party began to make their way down the aisle. Andy is just the sweetest guy and you can see his adoration for Ellen as she made her way to him with her dad by her side. They shared a lovely late-afternoon ceremony (complete with celebratory boat sound-offs) and sealed their promises with a kiss! After a few family photos, Ellen and Andy joined their guests for an outdoor cocktail hour before heading in for dinner.
Many laughs (and some tender moments as well) were shared as each of their fathers shared an opening speech. We enjoyed a fabulous dinner which lead into some enchanted dances. To Ellen and Andy’s surprise, Ellen’s dance family broke out into a flash mob to kick off the dancing party! Shortly after with a beautiful golden light reflecting off of the lake, Andy and Ellen snuck away for a quick 10 minute golden hour session, where some of my favorite photos were captured before I said goodnight for the evening. Congrats again Andy and Ellen, here are a few of my favorites from your day:
A special thank you to these vendors and Sara Baillies for her lovely assistance and shooting for the day!
Venue | Chippewa Retreat Resort
Florist | Evolutions in Design
Baker | Sugar N Spice
Bridal Shop | Elaine’s Wedding and Event Center
Suit Rental | Groom: Campbell Haines Menswear Groomsmen: Men’s Wearhouse
Caterer | Jessica’s Cucina
Jeweler | Jim Kryshak Jewelers
Stationary | Minted and Zazzle
July 7, 2020
