Where do I even begin with this one?! I suppose it all started years ago when I photographed a wedding for a friend of Gen’s and she decided at that moment that I was going to be her wedding photographer! Fast forward a few years and she was engaged and sure enough remembered me (thank you!) and reached out about photographing her wedding. Of course I would!

They had been living in Chicago and came down to do their engagement photos (see those HERE), but had moved up to Milwaukee. When I found out the wedding was going to be at the Art Museum I did small happy dance as it had been on my bucket list of places I wanted to photograph a wedding since the moment I laid eyes on it years ago. And it did not disappoint!

I drove up the night before to check out the rehearsal and because I love Milwaukee so I needed to make a stop at the Public Market for a few favorites. I already knew that I loved Gen and Tom, and having “met” Gen’s mom via Skype I had a feeling I was going to love all their families as well. There are some weddings that I walk into and I just feel like a family friend, and that was the case with this one. It makes for an easier day for me when I’m embraced and trusted to just do what I do. Although I will admit that I was super nervous knowing that Gen had waited years for me to be her photographer so I had better bring my A+++ game!

After getting ready (Hello detachable train on her dress?!) we headed to the museum for first look and photo with the wedding party. It was November and therefore dark by 5 so this was crucial in being able to get some natural light photos. I could have taken photos here for hours if they let me! The ceremony was full of candles as the sun went down and all the guests were greeted with a tiny bottle of bubbles that they could take to their seats (yes!!).  The ceremony was beautiful and included reading from both moms.

The moment I walked into the reception space I wanted to live in it forever. If you’d never seen David’s work you should follow him immediately. He is a genius. And his whole team is amazing. The space itself with nothing in it is something to be seen (go if you’re ever in MKE), but it’s a dream space for a reception. The first time I was ever there with my boyfriend he said “we should stop by the Art Museum, I’ve heard it’s cool.” I took one look at it and my first thought was “OMG! Can you get married here?!”

As guests moved into the reception space and settled in the Bride and Groom cut the cake. Some great toasts were given and everyone hit the dance floor! It was packed from the moment the band started playing! We snuck out for a few night photos, even though it was freezing at that point. But I’m so glad we did because those are some of my favorites.

Congrats to the newlyweds and thank you to both of you and your families for letting me capture your wedding day!

Venue: Milwaukee Art Museum

Event Planner : Dynamic Events by David Caruso

Getting Ready Hotel : The Westin MKE

DJ: Gold Coast All Stars

Hair: Heidi Dietrich at Hello Brunette

Make up: Meg Dionne at Juniper

Bride’s Dress: Ysa Makino from Dimitra’s Bridal in Chicago