Valerie + Dylan’s Rustic Wedding at The Barnsite in Wisconsin

On a gloriously sunny fall day, Valerie bounced excitedly around the barn apartment at the Barnsite Retreat and Event Center. She was surrounded by the most wonderful ladies, getting ready to celebrate the best day of her life. She was completely in her element, getting pampered and excitedly sharing details about the day ahead. Outside the barn, groom-to-be Dylan relaxed with his groomsmen and the dads, waiting until the moment he would get to see Valerie at their First Look.

Barnsite Retreat Kewaunee, Best Wisconsin Wedding Photography

As Valerie tiptoed up behind Dylan in her stunning Allure Couture gown, she wrapped her arms around his waist from behind, waiting to reveal herself. As Dylan turned around, they both visibly relaxed and lovingly embraced one another. Dylan told Valerie how amazing she looked, but he already knew that she was going to be breathtaking. Valerie was so much more at ease having gotten to see the love of her life in a private moment before sharing their vows in front of their closest family and friends.

Valerie had happy tears in her eyes as her father walked her down the aisle, her incredible belted train cascading behind her. I'm not sure if Dylan would admit it, but it looked like he was equally emotional at the site of his gorgeous life partner walking towards him. Their handwritten, heartfelt vows were filled with touching words and personal quips to make each other smile. As their mothers poured sand into their custom hourglass that served as their Unity ceremony, they beautifully brought two families together. Valerie wiggled with excitement as they were pronounce husband and wife, and they shared a beautiful first kiss.

Valerie and Dylan's wedding party and family truly brought out the best in the happy couple. The precious time they dedicated to taking photos with family and friends was filled with laughter, hugs, and memories being recalled. The wedding party celebrated with Dylan and Valerie along Lake Michigan, staying close to the couple as the waves lapped the shore. The newlyweds strolled the shoreline hand-in-hand, taking time to reflect on their love for one another near one of the Lake Michigan lighthouses. These two have a special love for lighthouses and wanted to be sure to include this significant token in their wedding day.

Upon their return to the Barnsite, the dining hall was filled with smells of a delicious, beckoning pasta bar from Julie's Cafe. Guests filled themselves with comfort food, and indulged in the candy bar that had been set up. The upper space in the barn had been transformed into a beautiful, romantic reception space where Dylan and Valerie shared their first dance under hanging lanterns and tall barn beams. The beer flowed freely, the guests filled the dance floor, and joyous laughter and conversation filled the barn. It was a truly beautiful day, one that celebrated Valerie and Dylan's relationship and future in a most deserving way.

Thank you, Valerie and Dylan, for being such an amazing example of what a fun-loving, light-hearted, but deep and all-encompassing relationship can look like. Cheers to the two of you and the many years ahead of you. May you continue to adventure together, laugh together, and love each other even more than you ever thought possible. It is such an honor to know you and to consider you friends.

Much love and appreciation,

Kate

This beautiful wedding day wouldn’t have been possible without the collaboration of these amazing vendors:

Ceremony + Reception: Barnsite Retreat and Events Center // Officiant: Jen Warmbold // Catering: Julie’s Cafe // DJ: Best Man Music // Dress: Allure Couture // Dress store: Vera’s House of Bridals // Suit: The Black Tux // Florals: Floral Expressions Beaver Dam // Hair and makeup: Sara Miller Artistry // Bridal party jewelry: Busy Lizzy Creation