Dan & Kirsten | A Lakeside Private Residence Wedding in Madison, Wisconsin.

June 9, 2020

Despite all the challenges and unique situations COVID-19 presented to Dan & Kirsten as they planned (and replanned) their wedding, these two chose to stay as positive as possible and make the most of their celebration. One thing was for sure – they were getting married this year! It was so refreshing each time I talked with Kirsten when plans changed; her desire to marry Dan was at the forefront of each decision and I sincerely felt her joy through it all.

Instead of a 350+ person wedding at a local venue here in Madison, Dan & Kirsten planned a very intimate ceremony & dinner with their immediate families and a set of close friends. They were married on Lake Mendota, in the backyard of very dear family friends of Kirsten’s family. The setting was absolutely breathtaking as the property dons several old oak trees along the waterline with beautiful views each way you looked. It was sunny and warm with a slight breeze as boats drifted by, waves crashed along the shore and birds chirped overhead; I mean, magical : )

Both Dan & Kirsten were anxiously excited to see one another as we separately spent time with them in the few hours leading up to the ceremony. The moment their eyes met as Kirsten and her dad came down the aisle, I saw tears in both of their eyes. Then, nothing but the biggest smiles : ) Their ceremony was extremely personal and heartfelt … and the most beautiful white sailboat put-putted by in the distant background to make a truly extraordinary scene! There were definitely tears shared by all as the officiant and Dan & Kirsten’s siblings shared sentimental words about and for the couple.

To conclude the evening, everyone shared appetizers and cocktails on the patio, and Dan & Kirsten cut their cake adorned with two badgers (since they met at UW-Madison!). The farm table along the lake was set with linen napkins, candlesticks, wine and spirits, and a lovely garland centerpiece … not to mention the most amazing food! As they popped the champagne and said toasts, I couldn’t help but think how perfect the weather was and how truly special this experience must be for everyone in attendance. Dan & Kirsten, you are SO loved by SO many and we cannot thank you enough for inviting us into your lives and sharing that love with us, too : )