Wisconsin weather is very unpredictable, but can yield beautiful results. This shoot was originally scheduled for a Monday afternoon, but heavy rain and thunderstorms meant I had to reschedule everything. I am so thankful that everyone was able to adjust their plans and be available at a short notice. This truly was a collaborative shoot and everyone’s involvement was very important. The morning of the shoot the temperature rose in the high 80s to dry up the rain and the sun came out to provide the perfect setting for our charming bridal editorial.

I scouted several locations in the Brookfield area, but logistics were always any issue. I didn’t even think to look close until my husband said, “Why are you going through all this trouble finding another location when our backyard is beautiful?”. Duh, why didn’t I think of that? Our backyard was the perfect setting with the gorgeous green landscape. It also helped to have cold air conditioning for hair and makeup when it was sticky and hot outdoors.

The first look (for the ceremony) was classic and modern with a bit of country elegance. The gorgeous Justin Alexander gown was paired with classic accessories, a modern braid and soft makeup that complimented Samantha beautifully. The second look (for the reception) was more flexible to allow the bride to dance and move with ease. The stunning Stella York gown in blush was paired with a loose and modern up-do, a stunning bridal crown and gorgeous accessories. I absolutely love the back of this dress.

I partnered with some amazing wedding vendors to pull together this shoot. Not only did they offer amazing products and services, but they went above and beyond to assist while I was photographing. Big props to our model Samantha who did such a wonderful job and helped pull it all together. I also have my lovely husband to thank for second shooting and capturing some behind-the-scenes images.

The rich wood table, mismatched chairs and gorgeous pink vintage throne were from Relics Vintage Rentals. They were amazing to work with and I definitely recommend checking out their entire inventory. I was also very honored to be the first person to rent the new pink throne.




All of the china, glassware, flatware, candelabras, milk glass vases, and props were from Plates Etc. Barbara was a dream to work with. She packed her entire vehicle full of vintage china and props for the shoot (even bringing along the amazing cow skull), set up the entire table to look amazing and was full of ideas. This shoot made me want to host a gorgeous dinner party and hire her to arrange everything.



I cannot say enough nice things about the flowers from Alfa Flower Shop in Wauwatosa. I gave the shop a few ideas and left the flowers up to them. The shop provided the stunning bridal bouquet, centerpiece, small floral vases and loose flowers. I love when I can get a few loose flowers to incorporate with the wedding stationary. They also smelled AMAZING!!! As soon as I brought them in my house the morning of the shoot my two cats were on the table sniffing them.



Melissa from Bucci’s Bridal in Pewaukee was also wonderful to work with. Samantha and I visited the shop a week before the shoot to find the perfect gowns for her. It was definitely a “Say Yes to the Dress” moment as Samantha tried on a variety of look and Melissa glammed her up with belts, headpieces, jewelry and more. It was also an awesome experience to see Samantha face light up when she fell in love with one of the gowns. I want to get married again and again so I can keep trying on dresses.





Hair styling was provided by Ashley from 29Ten Salon in Brookfield. The salon is a must visit with its amazing modern and vintage decor and excellent team. Plus, at my last hair cut appointment there was an adorable old lady getting her curls set. Too cute! Kelly from Lustrous Makeup provided a beautiful soft and pink look for Samantha. It was very hot and sticky during the shoot and we were all glistening a bit, but Samantha’s makeup didn’t run or fade at all. Definitely a must for the wedding day! I wish Ashley and Kelly could come to my house every morning and make me look this amazing! They are extremely talented and highly recommended.






The invitations were provided by my good friend Danielle from DCo Lovenotes. Danielle created two different looks for the shoot that fit the theme and appealed to different tastes. Not only is Danielle a stationery designer, but she’s also a friend of mine and a talented model that I had the honor of photographing.

Table Decor Rentals: Plates Etc. | Furniture Rentals: Relics Vintage Rentals | Floral Design: Alfa Flower Shop
Wedding Dreses: Bucci’s Bridal | Accessories/Jewelry: Bucci’s Bridal | Model: Samantha D | Make-up Artistry: Lustrous Makeup
Hair Styling: Ashley from 29Ten Salon | Invitations: DCo Lovenotes