The McCartneys are back with a classically elegant Milwaukee wedding…

Says the bride, “Although I was born and raised in Tampa, Florida, Ryan and I met at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and it’s really become a special place for us. It only seemed fitting to tie the knot at Gesu Church on our Alma Mater’s campus, with our closest family and friends present.”

Bridesmaids wore pale blue dresses by Watters. Also, gotta love a group of groomsmen climbing trees in their tuxes!

Lauren’s advice to other brides? “Take time for just the two of you to enjoy your wedding day. Sneak away and spend a few minutes together here and there if you can. It’s so true what they say, the day flies by so quickly!”

How sweet is this shot of the flower girl changing into her tennis shoes – ready to dance!

SEE THE FULL GALLERY FOR MORE PHOTOS OF THIS ELEGANT MILWAUKEE WEDDING.

 

What inspired you when you were planning your wedding? Ryan and I love simple elegance. We wanted a warm and inviting atmosphere where our guests could relax, eat a wonderful meal, put their dancing shoes on, and enjoy the best party we’re ever going to throw!

What was your favorite moment or part of the day? My best memory of the day is walking down the aisle on my dad’s arm and seeing all of our guests who had come to celebrate with us. Ryan looked so handsome and he had the biggest smile on his face. I couldn’t wait to be standing up there with him. It’s truly a walk I’ll never forget.

Did you include any traditions in your wedding? We decided to stick to a few traditions when it came to our big day. We didn’t see each other until I walked down the aisle, which definitely added some suspense and excitement to ceremony. Also, I carried my grandmother’s wedding handkerchief in my pocket (yes, my dress had pockets!) as my something old.

What was the best advice you received as a bride? Honestly, the best advice I received from was from my sister (and maid of honor). Eight months before our wedding we were learned of a festival occurring in Milwaukee the same weekend we had our wedding planned. No hotels were available in the entire city to accommodate our guests! Our options were to push it off for another year when the church and venue were available, or move it four months earlier than we had planner when there was another opening. My sister told me to go for it and plan the wedding early, “Don’t wait for the other venues to be ready next year, you’re both ready to be married now.” This was the boldest decision we could make, and we succeeded in uprooting our wedding and re-planning it in a four month time frame. It still was the best day of our lives and I’d do it over in a heartbeat.

Photographer: The McCartney's / Ceremony venue: Gesu Church /
Reception venue, catering: Hilton City Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin / Dress: Paloma Blanca / Veil: Vera Wang / Shoes: Glint / Earrings: Nadri / Tux: Men's WearHouse / Watch: Skagen / Bridesmaid dresses: Watters / Stationery: Wedding Paper Divas / Floral designer: Flowers by Jan Bayview / Music: The North Coast Orchestra