Of all the things that photographers dread, it’s the unpredictability of the weather. We know “there’s always a way.” But, heavy rain (or snow) can really put a damper on a well-planned occasion. That’s how it started with Gary & Lina’s wedding day! The heavy downpour from the night before resulted in flooding on the main highways. That really put a number of people behind. It was still drizzling the day of. Nevertheless, we pulled through!

Their ceremony was held at the Milwaukee County War Memorial Center. Although the ceremony was moved several yards away from the open area facing the lakefront, it didn’t take away from the happiness these two felt as they tied the knot in front of their many families and friends. They’ve known each other since childhood. It was a love story that started out as puppy love. Needless to say, their own families and childhood friends, most of which were also part of the wedding party, witnessed their wonderful journey together. One of their best friends officiated the ceremony, and even he could barely contain his emotions during the process! Tears of joy were expected, and surely fell down many peoples’ cheeks on this day. It was so heartwarming to watch.

Thankfully, despite the wet ground and gloomy weather, the whole bridal party were troopers! We walked around Milwaukee Art Museum and stopped by the Riverwalk in the Third Ward area for their portraits. It was full of fun and laughter already. It was a unique set up as the reception was at least an hour away drive south to In Paris Restaurant in Northbrook, IL. Gary & Lina specifically chose this venue because they are the closest hall that can accommodate that many people and host a Russian-style wedding banquet. And let us tell ya’, it was a LOT of delicious food! They were serving food ALL NIGHT! We thought the first set was already for everything, but we believe we were told that was only part 1 of 3, or something like that. A live band plus a few bottles of hard liquor per table equals a night to remember!

We do wedding photography to capture and freeze these beautiful memories that couples will cherish. As a photographer, perhaps one of my favorite parts of the day are the many slideshows and video clips presented throughout the reception. They had their love story shown prior to their grand entrance. But what I really love the most was all the home video clips that were put together showing everyone in that reception a glimpse of how Gary & Lina grew up together as childhood friends and as lovers. They were so cute! There were definitely a lot of “Aaaawwww” moments.

Congratulations Gary & Lina! We wish you good luck in everything and may you have many more wonderful memories to make as a married couple!

Vendors:

Ceremony: Milwaukee County War Memorial Center

Reception: In Paris Restaurant

DJ/Band: Alex Babiy – ABC Band Chicago

Hair: Marissa Meddaugh – Avenue M Salon & Spa

Makeup: Yuliya Litvina – Yuliya ML Artistry

Videographer: Edward Curran – Enterprise Films LLC