Couple

Wedding Photography | Mr. + Mrs. S | Loving Shepherd Lutheran - Milwaukee, WI | Schlitz Audobon Nature Center Milwaukee, WI by Emily Hilleshiem

When I first met Joe last year for their engagement pictures, I learned very quickly that he will do whatever it takes to get a laugh out of Marissa. There wedding day was no exception. Joe and Marissa love to laugh and have a good time. The friends they had by their side, as their bridal party, shared the same sentiment. Their bridal party was full of fun characters who were going to ensure their friends had a great time at their wedding. 

When Marissa told me that their reception would be held at Schlitz Audobon Nature Center, I was ecstatic. If you've never visited, be sure to add it to your list, because the nature preserve is stunning! They never disappoint with the beautiful space that they host parties in either.  Large windows helped to bring the outdoors in to their hall. I couldn't imagine a better space for Joe + Marissa's loved ones to celebrate with them in. 

When Joe and Marissa were early into their relationship, there was some Star Wars involved, as Joe is a big fan. This led to the most unique grand entrance I have seen in 6+ years of photographing weddings. *cue the Imperial March*

Friends who have a good time. A beautiful natural venue. And a little bit of the force. Their wedding is not one I will soon forget! 

Congrats Mr. + Mrs. S! I had a wonderful time celebrating with you and your loved ones! 

Reception Venue: Schlitz Audobon Nature Center

Catering, Rentals, Linens: Zilli Hospitality Group

Cake: Aggie's Bakery

Bride's Dress: Bliss Bridal

Bride's Shoes: Toms

Bridesmaid Dresses: David's Bridal

Suits: Men's Wearhouse

Rings: Kay Jewelers

Wedding Photography | Mr. + Mrs. B | Trinity Lutheran Belle Plaine, MN | Mayer Community Center Mayer, MN by Emily Hilleshiem

I didn't have the pleasure of meeting Kaity in person until her wedding day. However from our conversations, I never doubted that we would work well together. She and Micah had a very clear idea of what was important to them for their wedding day. From a photography standpoint, quality portraits with their friends and family that were there to celebrate with them was incredibly important. Since I would be traveling from out of state, they spent time finding the perfect locations for the portraits. I must give them major props because I simply could not be more ecstatic with their selections!  (Just wait until you see the apple blossom pictures!) The entire day was the same way. They truly paid special attention to every single detail.  Beginning to end. It was a beautiful union of two individuals with loving support from their families as they begin to build their own family. I still feel so incredibly lucky to have been able to photograph it. 

Thank you and many congratulations to you, Kaity+Micah!

Wedding Photography | Mr. + Mrs. H | St. Lucas Lutheran - Bayview, WI | Bradley Pavilion - Milwaukee, WI by Emily Hilleshiem

It wasn't all that long ago that Naomi came over to hang out, not an uncommon thing by any means. The conversation was mostly catching up and learning a bit about her new job. Then she "hypothetically" asked me whether I prefer being in a wedding party of photographing it, and which I think I would prefer for her own someday. She did try not to give much away, but my relationship radar was going off. After some anticipatory tension on my part she said, "Well I met someone, and I'm kinda sorta probably going ring shopping this weekend...in Boston" Insert surprised emoji here. I couldn't help but notice that this guy was certainly something special and not simply because of the wedding talk. My dear friend referenced him as being "Darcy-esque" and neither one of us are ones to throw down Pride and Prejudice comparisons lightly. We take Jane Austen romance very seriously. 

Their wedding day was simply elegant. My bestie made a truly beautiful bride. And the man that captured her heart made her smile all day. I'm so happy that God in His prefect timing brought these two together. 

God's richest blessings to the newlyweds!