I really don’t even know where to begin with the couple on the blog today. They are one of those couples … gosh, I am just so thankful they walked into my life. They truly have the most beautiful hearts, + the most tender + honest + endless love. From the moment I first met these two, I could not stop gushing about them!!! Just ask Caleb ; ) hehe! And I am beyond excited to be sharing their most amazing wedding day with you today on the blog!!

The day began with rain—which was perfect. A first look at the Capitol with umbrellas + a little drizzle made for the most romantic, intimate first look we have ever done!! Elle wanted to walk to James instead of waiting for him to turn around + see her when she was right behind him, however I think James lasted about 5 seconds before he turned to me, tears rolling down his cheeks, + said, “Can I go get her???” The way he looks at Elle is the sweetest, most beautiful admiration you can possibly imagine. The best part about it, though, is that she looks at him the same exact way. These two are truly head-over-heels in love with each other–both thinking that they were the one who lucked out with such a catch!! : ) It’s really something breath-taking. 

By the time we finished portraits + made our way to the ceremony, the sun was shining as bright as could be : ) Everyone was all smiles because the two were getting married on the rooftop of the Monona Terrace, over looking the Capitol + downtown Madison, so rain just would not have worked!! Thank goodness Elle’s grandpa was in attendance for the wedding (there is a crazy-cool story about how no matter what the chance of rain is, for ANY major event/wedding that he has ever attended, it has been sunny!! And he didn’t let us down!!!) 

At the ceremony, J + E exchanged the most heartfelt, tear-and-laughter-filled vows, + the passion shared between the two of them was so strong, it seemed as though time had stopped + the world stood still as they became husband + wife : )

The reception was only a natural celebration of the JOY shared by everyone in attendance for James + Elle on their marriage!! Stories + toasts + laughter filled the Lakefront Ballroom + everyone danced like there was no tomorrow : ) I am absolutely certain you are going to love the images from James + Elle’s day–a true reflection of their story, beauty, + love!! Thank you, Switzers, for a most memorable day—we LOVE you!!! Have a GREAT weekend, everyone!! -M

Just wait until you see her in this dress!!

Love!!!!!

These next few <3

Model status!!!

A favorite for sure!!

Elle!!! You are STUNNING!!!!! A new favorite portrait!!!

Okay, James. Turning up the studly-ness for these!!

What a view!!!!

These two … so beautiful : )

It’s OFFICIAL!! Meet the Switzers!!!!

I love these sweet moments : ) Just married as the sun is setting behind the skyline!!

Hands down favorite from the day!!! 

A little background is in order here!! So, James is actually from Canada (yes, there were lots of Canadians in the house for this one!!) + has grown up playing hockey his whole life; in fact, hockey is actually what brought him to the States!! Naturally, an AWESOME hockey guest book (+ some other creative touches which you will see soon!!) were a part of the day!!

I have to … USA!! USA!!!

Thanking Grandpa for bringing the sunshine : )

The fabulous vendors!!

Ceremony + Reception Venue | Monona Terrace

Wedding Coordinator | Micayla Jones

DJ | Capital Sound

Florist | Blooms

Catering + Cake Pops | Monona Catering

Make Up + Hair | Texture Salon and Spa

Gown | Marah’s Elegant Bridal, Essense of Austraila 

Bridesmaids | Brandi’s Bridal Galleria

Menswear | Men’s Wearhouse

Officiant | Rev. James Engmann of Happily Ever After Wedding Officiants