I'm so happy to share a few images from a wonderful wedding I was honored to photograph. Enter, Will & Marisa. This couple is a force to be reckoned with. They are funny, adventurous and intellectual. The jokes and banter flow freely and they are enthusiastic to chat about their latest travel plans or fresh found recipes they've been whipping up in the kitchen. I love working with couples who have a bit of an international flair and a zest for cooking up recipes with eclectic ingredients. I digress.
I met Marisa at work years ago so I was super excited to hear from her after Will proposed. Here's a little bit of their proposal story - guys, take note... a proposal in Croatia will get you a surefire YES!
"Will had wanted to propose while traveling internationally and in nature as those two things represented a lot of what brings us together. Originally, he had planned to do this on Mt. Fuji in Japan in late 2020 but that plan fell apart due to COVID. In September 2021 we were finally able to travel abroad and chose Croatia. Will picked out Plitvice Lakes, a national park filled with waterfalls and clearwater pools, as the spot. Will researched all over to find the best overlook view possible within the park and picked one out that had a beautiful view from what he could see online.
We woke up extra early that day to beat the crowds and caught the first bus to the park. After a short hike, we reached the path to the chosen overlook spot but had a “do not enter” sign. After some convincing, Marisa agreed to hike to the top (not knowing that Will knew the sign was there and would be OK from reading about this spot online). At the top, Will was shocked to see a tree had grown across the overlook, blocking much of the view. Without a backup plan and undeterred, Will acted like they were going to take a photo anyways and took a knee. After Marisa realized Will wasn’t tying his shoe and overcame her shock, she gladly said yes."
The wedding planning details:
September:
September weddings in Wisconsin are ideal, a perfect balance of warmth and coziness creates an ambiance of contentment as the season toggles between summer & fall. Embrace the season like Marisa did by incorporating autumnal elements into your decor, such as rustic wooden accents, rich jewel-toned flowers, and cozy candlelight...Marisa opted for rust colored silk dresses and a dried flower bouquet. Will brought in some personal flair by incorporating a floral print tie for his groom's wedding attire.
Intimate, with a guest count of 105
Wedding ceremony site: Bookworm Gardens in Sheboygan, WI
Nestled in the heart of Sheboygan, Bookworm Gardens is a whimsical paradise that brings beloved children's books to life through enchanting gardens and imaginative landscapes. Imagine saying "I do" amidst the colorful blooms of the Secret Garden or beneath the canopy of trees in the Hundred Acre Wood. With its winding paths, hidden nooks, and vibrant flora, Bookworm Gardens offers a one-of-a-kind backdrop for a September wedding filled with charm and nostalgia.
Cocktail hour site: Backyard style kegger at an airbnb rental... this offered up such a laid back atmosphere for guests and was so much fun for everyone
Wedding reception site: Where it all began for the happy couple... Siebkens Resort, a Gem in Elkhart Lake, WI
For couples drawn to the allure of historic architecture and timeless elegance, Siebkens Resort in Elkhart Lake provides the perfect setting for a September wedding. Established in 1916, Siebkens exudes old-world charm with its grand Victorian-era buildings, quaint cottages, and sprawling grounds overlooking the tranquil waters of Elkhart Lake. Siebkens offers a romantic and sophisticated atmosphere that is sure to leave a lasting impression. It sure did for Marisa & Will. The couple met at Siebkens in 2013 when Marisa was working there as a bartender. Will appointed one of his friends to venture up to the bar to ask for Marisa's number, only to find out that she was not yet 21. Marisa and Will didn't speak again until they randomly ran into each other at the very same bar 2 years later. After this serendipitous reconnection, they started dating. It was only fitting for them to choose this same location to celebrate their nuptials.
Entertainment: A live band featuring an amazing assortment of instruments and vocals playing classics from today and yesteryear...I love photographing weddings with live bands... there's something about the energy that gets everyone so excited and amped up to dance the night away!
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Whimsical Roots Photography is on fire for documenting love stories in Wisconsin. A wedding photographer based out of Hartford, Wisconsin, Andrea routinely travels to gorgeous Wisconsin wedding venues in Milwaukee, Madison, Appleton, and beyond. Chicago is only a 2 hour drive from her home base, so she happily visits the Windy City to photograph weddings.
The passion Andrea shares with her clients translates to beautiful imagery and an amazing client experience. If you're seeking a fun-loving, spirited wedding photographer, contact Whimsical Roots Photography today. You won't regret it!
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