A laid back & elegant wedding.


Ashley + TJ's wedding day was so fun and laid back. When I arrived, Ashley + the wedding party members were started already with hair and make up. I gathered up Ashley's details and utilized the green carpet of the locker room as a backdrop, since their party was dressed in a sage green and Ashley's ring has a green stone. My second photographer, Cara, arrived shortly after. She headed downstairs to work with the groomsmen. Meanwhile, it was time for Ashley to get dressed.


Ashley and TJ opted to have a first look and private vow reading. It was so sweet seeing them share that moment. Then we hopped right into couple portraits, followed by wedding party portraits. It was so fun exploring the area at Bishops Bay. It's gorgeous with the Lake Monona backdrop and all the green, grassy areas. We finished up portrait time with family groups, and then it was almost time for the ceremony to begin.


The sun came out just in time for the start of the ceremony. It was so gorgeous with Ashley + TJ in front of the lake. They quickly said their vows, exchanged rings, and shared a kiss. Their ceremony may have been one of the fastest ever, but that's ok with me. Let's get on to the party! I headed over to the reception tent to get some photographs of all of their details, and Ashley headed upstairs to transform her dress--she had a detachable skirt! During cocktail hour, the guests mingled and enjoyed the custom cocktail: an old fashioned with Canadian maple syrup whiskey, which is perfect because the groom is from Canada.


Soon the guests all began to sit for dinner. We heard a few lovely speeches from the wedding party members and the couple's parents. For dessert, the couple chose Greenbush doughnuts. Such a delicious choice! Then it was golden hour, so we snuck away out to the dock to get some beautiful shots with the lake. Finally, the couple shared their first dance, and everyone danced the night away.


Ashley + TJ's wedding day was the perfect summer wedding day. I am so glad I was able to capture this part of their love story for them.