I love when a theme and a couple’s style fit together so seamlessly that you can’t tell where one ends and the other begins. Such is the case with this French-inspired Milwaukee wedding. The bride’s breathtaking gown, the exquisite paper details, the romantic florals all fit flawlessly with the elegant vintage vibe. Brought to us by the talented Lexia Frank Photography, it’s a breathtaking beautiful celebration sure to make you swoon. Before you take off to the gallery to see the rest, check out the film from Switzerfilm. It’s a must stop destination in your wedding travels. Merci beaucoup.
Amy and Pete Wedding from Switzerfilm on Vimeo.
From Lexia Frank… It all started at Capital Fitness in Madison, Wisconsin. Pete —a personal trainer—and Amy, a new member, caught each other’s eye from across the gym and felt instant attraction. Flirtatious smiles and small talk eventually gave way to the exchanging of numbers. Since Amy isn’t the type of woman who sits by and waits for a call, the very next day, she called Pete to ask him out, herself.
The pair dated for five years and on a beautiful summer evening, took a walk down to the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Memorial Union. It was the perfect setting; they sat on a ledge overlooking the water and watched a gorgeous sunset. Seizing the moment, Pete hopped down to the rocks below and lowered himself onto one knee, asking Amy to marry him. After her initial shock (“Shut up! Do my parents know about this?”), Amy—of course, gave him the answer they both had in their hearts: “Yes!”
As the owner of her own cinematography business, One Fine Day Productions, Amy had been working in the wedding industry for ten years. When it came time to plan a big day of her own, she wanted something unique. She and Pete went with a French-vintage theme that was implemented seamlessly throughout the day; they didn’t want anything too elaborate; just simple little details from another era. The rehearsal dinner was held at Trimborn Farm, an intimate backdrop for a BBQ under the stars. The ceremony was held there as well, in a beautiful clearing between buildings. Guests walked past a vintage truck as they entered the site and then through a pair of old vintage doors made by Amy’s father.
After the ceremony, Amy & Pete welcomed their guests into the barn with kettle corn and lemonade, all in theme-appropriate packaging. The reception was held at Turner Hall Ballroom and was nothing short of spectacular. The cocktail hour, with the French-inspired passed hors d’voures from local eatery Brocach and the French accordion player made for a unique start to the reception. Guests enjoyed dinner amongst stunning displays of vintage details incorporated into the floral arrangements, table linens, glittered table numbers, candlelight and a magnificent head table in the middle of the room.
Amy and Pete’s guests savored chocolate favors from Wisconsin chocolatier Gail Ambrosias. An electric violinist serenading during dinner added a touch of sexy ambiance to the room. The couple surprised their guests later in the evening by pulling back the curtains on the stage to reveal a vintage lounge with mismatched furniture, a photo booth, and an over-the-top dessert bar that included two chefs creating crepes. (Oo, la la!) As the icing on the cake, so to speak, Amy had her grandmother’s wedding gown on display next to the cake for guests to view. The personal touch made the day all-the-more meaningful for the bride and her family.
Amy’s dress was an elegant compliment to her wedding’s theme. She wore a gorgeous gown by Lazaro from GiGi’s in Mequon. Serendipitously, it was the first dress she tried on and she instantly fell in love with it. To make the day unique and personal, Amy designed all of the invitations and paper goods utilized at the reception and ceremony; complete with French engraving scripts, vintage fonts and hand glittered details, the tone was set for the wedding from day one. For addressing invitations, place cards and other signage, the pair used the Blooming Quill, which added an elegant touch to the wedding’s overall ambiance.
Wedding Photography: Lexia Frank Photography / Cinematography: Switzerfilm / Floral Design: Esther Fleming of Impressions Floral / Wedding Planning: David Caruso of Dynamic Events / Getting Ready Venue: The Pfister Hotel / Rehearsal + Ceremony Venue: Trimborn Farm / Reception Venue: Turner Hall Ballroom / Wedding Gown: Lazaro from Gigi’s of Mequon / Wedding Shoes: Vera Wang / Hair: Erinn at Glow Salon & Spa / Makeup: Antonio Fred / Jewelry: Vera’s House of Bridals / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Bella Bridesmaid via Vera’s Bridals / Flower Girl Dress: Bliss Bridal / Tuxedos: Harleys / Photo Booth: Beyond the Booth / Printed goods: Amy Johnson / Calligraphy: Debi Zeinert of The Blooming Quill / Catering: Brocach Catering / Cake: The Cake Lady / Late Night Dessert: Simma’s / Favors: Gail Ambrosius Chocolatier / Beverage Service: Bartenders on the Go / Linens: BBJ Linen / Rentals: Canopies / DJ & Lighting: Sound by Design / Electric Violinist: Elan Artists / String Quartet: Quartessence / Accordion Player: Joe DeLuca / Audio Support: Majic Enterprises / Transportation: Badger Trolley