Rachel + Joe got married in August in Wisconsin at a lake house that has been in Rachel's family for years. Rachel and her family spent summers there and her aunt (who currently lives there) was kind enough to let us absolutely take over the place for the weekend. It was a serious team effort: Rachel's family planted and gardened all summer, her neighbors cleared an enormous field so that we could put a tent up, and all of the vendors pulled together to create this amazing wedding in a spot that a wedding was not intended to be had. The results were absolutely stunning (if I do say so myself.)
The detail that went into their day made it so personal and fantastic. The ceremony was held overlooking the lake. During the ceremony both sets of parents contributed their reflections on marriage, their friends provided music and the entire guest list joined in playing kazoos and singing "When I'm 64." Immediately following, guests were invited to join in a champagne toast and tossed wildflower seeds into a new garden patch next to the lake. Hopefully they will be in full bloom for Rachel + Joe's first anniversary.
For the centerpieces we used encyclopedias that Rachel + Joe thrifted, candles in mason jars they painted and vintage planters full of flowers that served a dual purpose as part of the meal to hold a fantastic cheese course featuring local cheese (hello, Wisconsin cheese, amen) and Door County cherries. While we're on the subject of food, I'd like to note that their second course was cheese curds (YES!) followed by an array of salads, sausages, whitefish and farmer's market grilled vegetables that was served family style. Everything was organic and sourced from local farms in the area.
After dinner Rachel and Joe shared their first dance, as did Rachel and her dad. Joe and his mom decided to sing a duet instead of dancing = AMAZING! Then THREE different bands, all made up of Rachel + Joe's friends played sets until the wee hours of the morning. It was a gorgeous night filled with so many personal touches that made it worth all of the added items on the "to-do list." A place that holds so many memories for this brand new family, I couldn't have been happier to be a part of it!
*all photos courtesy of my buddy Michael of Michael Rastall Photography
Rachel + Joe's Vendors
Ceremony+ Reception: private residence in Wisconsin
Planning + Day-of Coordination: Anticipation Events
Styling: the couple + Anticipation Events
Catering: Not By Bread Alone
Pies: Not By Bread Alone Cakes: Friend of the couple
Photography: Michael Rastall Photography
Florist: Petal Pushers
Band(s): The Dads, The Sunbeams + Matty & James (all friends of the couple)
Tent: Celebrations
Rentals: Celebrations + Biebel's
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