They met at the El Dorado Grill and from then on, it was love…

Robin and Ryan are the kind of couple who when you meet them, they immediately become your friend. That’s how I felt anyway. The couples I photograph usually end up feeling like family after the wedding, especially all the time we spend together. The intimate moments before the ceremony, getting ready, time together alone around sunset to get those amazing warm honey toned romantic portraits-all of which are some of my favorite moments of the day.

We arrived at the newly renovated Park Hotel (formerly called The Inn on the Park) and spent some time  with Robin, her sister and future daughter, Willow. These getting ready photos were really fun with the beautiful blue tones of the room and the incredible gem toned emerald bridesmaid dresses. Once we were ready, it was time to head on over to the Monona Terrace for a first look with Ryan. It was a pretty hot day (and I mean upper 90s humid and hot!) but everyone was mentally prepared. The walk over was so gorgeous with deep blue skies and white puffy clouds and Capitol in the background. I love downtown Madison! Robin had the biggest smile on her face when Ryan turned around and saw her! You could just feel the love and excitement. We spent the better part of the afternoon walking around the Terrace and Capitol shooting and having fun.

The ceremony took place at The Top of the Park at the Park Hotel. It was an intimate gathering and the musician was really amazing. This guy had a voice like butter! For some reason, I didn’t get his name though. I’ll have to do that. There were a lot of smiles through tears and wine and delicious cake. Willow read a speech and I don’t think there was a dry eye in the place. She was amazing. These guys also had a choreographed first dance! It was twirly, spinney, smiley and dips galore. We got so many great photos of these two. It was hard to pick just a few but here goes…

Vendors: Second Shooters: Van Ganchang and Gretchen Olsen // Venue: The Park Hotel // Florist: Hy-Vee// Dress: Vera’s House of Bridals // Hair and Makeup: Insignia // Baker: Carl’s Cakes // DJ: Midwest Sound