Sweet as a cupcake

I met Hailey a couple years ago as we worked together at the same company. She was a college student and worked in the office when she was home on break. She was so friendly and personable. I did not meet Josh until we went out for lunch in Brookfield to get to know one another before their engagement session pictures.

There was not a dull moment or awkward silence from the minute we sat down. The two of them couldn't sit close enough and were so sweet! I learned how Josh proposed and loved how they incorporated that significant detail into their wedding day. He had "Will you marry me?" written on cupcakes and opened the box for her to see when they were at Veterans Park in Milwaukee on a cold December day.

They met in high school and went on a few dates but nothing came of it. Later they connected again and then each of their families noticed a difference and knew this was it. Hailey was going to college to be a teacher and Josh was in the process of getting a degree in Physical Therapy.

Everything about their day was perfect with a little excitement added in. The weather was perfect and there was so much excitement on everyones faces. They were married at the First Congregational church in Wauwatosa. This was the same church that Hailey's parents were married in so that was very meaningful to them.

During the ceremony the bride's brother and sister sang the song, "Stand by me", while her sister played the guitar. It was so unique and personal. The bridal party included family and friends and the flower bearer's did a great job. You never know what to expect with kiddos!

The reception was at the Wisconsin Club in Milwaukee, known as the City Club, and the bridal party was transported there via the Clubs bus which gave everyone a chance to have fun and just enjoy. There are so many beautiful aspects to the Wisconsin Club, from the fountain, to the architecture of the building, and the very unique building on the southeast corner, the Belvedere (an enclosed gazebo) which was designed and built by an Italian woodcarver, built specifically for viewing the gardens. This made for a perfect backdrop for family and bridal party photos. When we were finished with those, we explored the inside of the gazebo, which was spectacular and a perfect place for Hailey and Josh to decompress and enjoy some alone time.

As we made our way back to the reception we had to stop in front of the fountain and capture all the beauty of the surroundings and the moment. The last photo opportunity before they visited with guest was at the foot of the staircase, where we could showcase Hailey's beautiful fitted dress from Bucci's Bridal.

The reception room was reminiscent of a Hollywood movie with the large velvet drapes and gold trim. I was fortunate enough to get a view from the balcony and captured Sound by Design setting up for the evening. The guests were enjoying time on the outdoor balcony and gathering at the bar for some signature drinks, of course a Brandy Old Fashioned was one of them! One of the most interesting details was the display of pictures of the bride and grooms parents, and grandparents, all on THEIR wedding day! So special. During dinner Josh took the microphone and personally thanked all the vendors, the staff, and Kris, the Wisconsin Club Catering Director, and Glen from Salem Media Productions and me. That was so meaningful to hear his words of appreciation.

After dinner and heartfelt speeches it was time to dance and the first one to get up and on the dance floor was Carrie, Hailey's mom. She was ready to enjoy this beautiful day!

I'm looking forward to staying in touch with Hailey and Josh and seeing what great things they accomplish. Oh and the little excitement? That was someone speeding on the way to the church, but luckily no ticket was handed out, because well, someone had to get to the church on time!