Sarah and Jordan had a beautiful wedding along the Mississippi River and reception at the historic Charmant Hotel, but that wasn’t always the plan. Like many other 2020 couples, their plans changed and instead of the wedding they were expecting to have along the beach in Florida, plans changed and they decided to have a wedding in their home town instead. I was so excited to get to fly up to Wisconsin to photograph this gorgeous wedding day.

Why did you choose this particular venue for your ceremony?
“We chose The Waterfront patio because of its beautiful backdrop and close proximity to the reception space. The blue bridge, Mississippi River, and gorgeous spaces around it were all icing on the cake!” 

Tell me about your ceremony.
“We kept the order of service traditional and also spoke traditional vows that many couples have used for years. We selected three special songs during the ceremony that were thoughtful to us and our relationship. We chose to braid three strands to symbolize a bible verse that represents our marriage.”

Why did you choose this venue for your reception?
“We chose The Charmant for its beauty and uniqueness. We knew it would provide a great backdrop throughout the day. It also allowed us to have our rehearsal dinner, getting-ready, reception, photo location, and hotel all in one which was so easy! Such a gorgeous and historic place.”

Did you have a theme for your wedding at the Charmant?
“Our wedding theme was classic and elegant. We wanted it to be timeless and love how it turned out! We wanted guest to have an intimate setting and feel the love and happiness the same as we did.”

What was something that happened on your wedding day that you didn’t expect?
Sarah: I didn’t expect the amazing video from our best man and other attendees who could not make it. That is something I will treasure forever. I didn’t expect our first looks to be so emotional or the first dances.
Jordan: I would have to agree with my beautiful wife on this one. I had no idea that Emily put that video together and it was very touching.

What was your first dance song and why did you choose it?
“Our first dance song was a Boyce Avenue cover of “Wanted” by Hunter Hayes. When we were in high school, I would make burned CDs for Jordan. Wanted was one of our favorite songs on it to listen to. When we were looking for a first dance song, Jordan suggested it and I loved the idea. He told me he found an acoustic cover of it that was slower and that he had listened to it that day and teared up. I was immediately sold that this would be our first dance song!”

What were some of your favorite memories of your wedding at the Charmant?
Sarah: My favorite memories from the day were getting ready with all of the girls, our very emotional first look, and the kicking dance party!!! Every moment was epic and I felt loved the entire day through.
Jordan: My favorite memory was our first dance and the great time had by everyone the rest of the night.

What were some of your sweetest memories?
Sarah: The sweetest memories included my dad getting choked up at the reveal, the handkerchief gift from my mother, Jordan’s thoughtful vow letter, and hugging everyone after the ceremony and at the reception! People said such great and loving words to us.
Jordan: My sweetest memory was Sarah and I reading our vows to each other and seeing the video of all of those that could not make it.

Click here to see their stunning engagement photos taken around Rosemary Beach, FL.