 STEPHANIE & ERIC Pabst Best Place Wedding // Milwaukee, Wisconsin “I love thee to the depth and breadth and height my soul can reach.” – Elizabeth Browning Stephanie and Eric wed in a beautiful ceremony at the Best Place at the Historic Pabst Brewery, the once-brewing destination in Milwaukee and one of Milwaukee’s most iconic addresses, ideal for celebrations and special events. This brewery closed in 1996 but was re-purchased in 2011. Since then, this incredible venue has been restored to its original glory and full of life and laughter ever since, offering a historic spot which celebrates its brewing history while providing an amazing location for modern weddings.
 Stephanie looked stunning in her gown from Eva’s Bridal. She radiated with true beauty, confidence, and grace on her special day. Her bridesmaids looked beautiful in lush, rich colors of maroon, holding seasonal bouquets which incorporated deep, warm hues of maroon and white.
Before Stephanie’s first-look moment with Eric, she shared a heartfelt moment with her father. It's been so refreshing and heartwarming to see more and more brides opt to do a first look with their dads. Capturing a bride and her father always makes for a priceless moment!
 
Stephanie and Eric decided to do their first look by the historic beer kettles at the Brewhouse Inn Hotel. When Eric saw Stephanie for the first time, his face lit up with sheer joy, and he was in complete awe of his stunning bride. I mean, who wouldn't be? Stephanie looked absolutely gorgeous! 
  I thought of many ways to share Stephanie and Eric's remarkable love story; however, I don't believe I can express their story with adequate justice as this couple truly shares an extraordinary love affair. According to the lovely couple, “the best way to describe our relationship is rare, everlasting, and once in a lifetime,” and they certainly hit the nail on the head. The two went to high school together and remained friends through Facebook. A few years ago, Stephanie was diagnosed with breast cancer. Eric happens to work as an oncology nurse, also doing a lot of advocacy for breast cancer. When Eric learned that Stephanie was diagnosed, he reached out to her to see how she was doing and continued to check in with her throughout her treatment. Finally, they decided to meet and catch up at Colectivo Coffee. They ended up staying in this Milwaukee cafe for over three hours, talking, laughing, and catching up. They immediately formed a strong bond and developed a wonderful friendship, eventually turning into the perfect love story.  
  
  
   
 
   Stephanie and Eric, being a part of your wedding day was an amazing, unforgettable experience. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. You two were wonderful to work with, and capturing your love and bond was a blissful experience. The love you share is truly special, and I feel so much gratitude that you chose me to capture your day. Thank you! I wish you nothing but the best! Love + appreciation, Dom  Venue : Best Place at the Pabst
Photographer: Dominika Photographer Associate Photographer : Christi Florist : Blooming Perfections Wedding Gown: from Eva's Bridal - Veil is the fabric from Stephanie's moms veil DJ : Milwaukee Airwaves Caterer : Smoke Shack Donuts: Holey Moley Late Night Food : Ian's Pizza Rings : Lyle and Hussar, Tacori rings Hotels : Brewhouse Inn and Suites Videographer - Dave Martin Studios Editor: Sharp Editorial
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 ALYSSA & MICHAEL Cedar Beach Inn Wedding // Belgium, Wisconsin “Where there is life, there is love.” – Mahatma Gandhi Alyssa and Michael, where do I even start?! Your wedding was simply beautiful and heartfelt, and it left this photographer feeling totally emotional. Not only are you both two of the most laid-back and fun couples I had the pleasure of photographing, but your families also added to the fun, laid-back atmosphere of your once-in-a-lifetime day.
   
Alyssa and Michael wed at Michael's parents’ property on the shores of Lake Michigan. They drew inspiration from Lake Michigan and its surroundings, incorporating colors of blue, gold, and greenery. During their ceremony, as well as throughout their entire day, I felt a sense of calmness and peace. It's remarkable how present and in the moment everyone was during this lovely couple’s wedding. A lot of times, people get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the wedding day, and it's hard to slow down and enjoy the moment. The opposite was true with Alyssa and Michal's wedding; everyone was in tune, calm, and relaxed throughout their beautiful day. 
  
  Alyssa looked radiant in her gown from Vera's Bridal, and her great grandmother’s shawl was the perfect touch. Alyssa and her mother shared a beautiful moment before the ceremony when each of them helped each other put on their dresses. Then, Alyssa’s grandmother entered the room to help put on her mother's shall on Alyssa. This was a special moment to remember! 
  
 Alyssa's mom walked her down the aisle. Her father passed away last year, and in order to have him by her side, she asked her florist, Le Tulipe, to tie his tie around her bouquet. His blue tie looked just right and provided a special connection between Alyssa and her late father. 
  Michael’s eyes lit up when he saw Alyssa walk down the aisle. The two shared special, heartfelt vows underneath an awning that Michael’s father built. Their ceremony was full of joy, laughter, and happy tears. There were so many smiles and loving embraces, a true dream for a wedding photographer to capture and share with such a deserving couple.       
 
 After their ceremony, we headed to Harrington State Beach Park for some fun wedding photos and, of course, this epic shot! It's not every day that I use extensive Photoshop magic on my clients’ photos, but when Alyssa and Michael asked me to Photoshop their cat in, I could not say no! Plus, the weekly emails with photos of Chimmy attempting to run after food added to my weekly giggles.  
   Their reception was held at Cedar Beach Inn, an authentic Wisconsin Supper Club. The Supper Club was the ideal venue for this laidback couple, as they were able to dance, laugh, and enjoy the evening. Alyssa and Michael danced their night away surrounded by family and friends; certainly a night to remember forever! 
 Just when I thought my job could not get any better, I meet people like Alyssa and Michael, two beautiful souls whose love for each other and their families shines brightly. You guys are amazing! I feel so grateful to have been with you and your lovely families. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! Love + Appreciation, Dom 
 Venue: Cedar Beach Inn
Wedding Planner: Danielle from Rosewood Weddings Photographer: Dominika Photographer Associate Photographer: Kejt Florist: La Tulipe Donuts: Roeser's (Chicago) Gown : Purchased at Vera's Bridal Band: Platinum Editor: Sharp Editorial  ERIN & EDWARD University of Wisconsin - Madison Memorial Union Wedding // Madison, Wisconsin “Nobody has ever measured, not even poets, how much the heart can hold.” – Zelda Fitzgerald Erin and Edward, two of the sweetest souls I’ve had the pleasure of photographing, wed in a beautiful ceremony in Madison, Wisconsin. Their entire day conveyed a light-hearted, sweet and, at times, beautifully emotional atmosphere. From the moment Erin put on her dress to when she saw Edward for the first time, there was not a dry eye in the room. Erin, a brilliant DIY-er, added so many creative and unique touches to their wedding, from adding calligraphy to every piece of stationary to designing a one-of-a-kind flower wall a week before their wedding, her special, artistic touches made for a distinctive, beautiful aesthetic. 
 
 
For the couple’s ceremony, Erin drew inspiration from the early 1990’s, Downton Abbey style, with colors of blush and burgundy. More profoundly, the whole event was inspired by Erin’s stunning engagement ring which was made from Edward's great-great-grandmother's diamond. The inspiration matched perfectly to the lace gown she wore as well as vintage pieces of jewelry – her mom's pearls and her grandmother’s bracelet. 
 Erin and Edward shared their vows at the Memorial Union on University of Wisconsin – Madison campus, the same spot where they met while attending graduate school. The unique backdrop of Union South offered a serene, beautiful landscape for the couple’s ceremony. After their ceremony, we headed downstairs to the terrace for bridal party portraits by the lake as well as around the Memorial Union. We also visited the exact spot where Erin and Edward met, which brought back the sweetest memories for the couple. 
    
   
    Their reception space was a stunning grand ballroom at the Memorial Union. Their centerpieces, all crepe paper flowers, were handmade by Erin's Aunt Rita on pedestals designed and carved by her Uncle Karl. The centerpieces took her aunt nine months to make, and every pedal was handmade!
Their wedding day was full of emotion and gratitude. Erin kept smiling from ear-to-ear, and with every moment she had, she spent it thanking everyone for joining them. Her level of gratitude and thankful heart made the entire day so blissful and fun. 
 A fun addition to the party was Bucky the Badger (the Madison mascot) who interrupted Erin and her dad's dance with his famous "Jump Around" dance." Since Erin’s dad is also a UW-Madison alumnus, he could not believe his eyes when he saw Bucky! The moment was nothing short of priceless!
Erin and Edward, thank you from the bottom of my heart! Your day was beautiful. Thank you for always making me feel so welcome with your kind words and actions. You two are beautiful inside and out, and I feel so lucky to have gotten to know you. Wishing you a lifetime of laughter and smiles. Love + Appreciation, Dom  Venue: Memorial Union
Wedding Planner: Brides on a Budget LLC Photographer: Dominika Photographer Associate Photographer: Kejt Florist: Daffodil Parker DJ: Midwest Sound DJ Entertainment Dessert: Bloom Bake Shop Hair & Makeup: Arch Weddings Rentals : Bucky's Rentals Transportation: Kobussen Busses LTD Editor: Sharp Editorial  KAREN & SCOTT The Watermark at Shully's Wedding // Thiensville, Wisconsin “Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies” – Aristotle This amazing, laid back couple, Karen and Scott, tied the knot in a romantic Milwaukee wedding. Their ceremony took place at Wauwatosa Presbyterian Church, the same church where Karen’s parents got married. The couple’s reception was held at The Watermark at Shully's in Thienville. Karen looked fabulous in her Morlilee by Madeline Gardner dress, pairing it with a classy Badgley Mischka pair of heels. The combination was perfection. Her wedding inspiration came in the form of a garden-esque, minimalistic nature which incorporated white, greenery, pale blue, and gold accents. Karen’s vision came to life with the help of amazing vendors, and the Watermark’s elegantly-appointed interior provided a neutral backdrop to effortlessly execute this vision.
  
The most anticipated part of the day happened with Karen walked down the aisle. In a cute, comic-relief moment, right before Karen saw Scott, their two-year-old ring bearer stole the show and walked down the aisle, crying. He walked and cried but made it down the aisle just in time for the entire church to burst into a huge round of applause for him!  
Scott was thrilled to see his bride walk down the aisle. He instantly lit up and could not stop grinning from ear to ear. During the couple’s ceremony, they exchanged loving glances, both radiating with sheer happiness and joy! Everyone could feel the love and bliss in the room.        With the beautiful weather in full swing, we were able to take advantage of the warmth by capturing bridal portraits in the Walkers Point and Third Ward Districts.  
 
  
  
 Following the ceremony and bridal portraits, the reception was set to kick off at Shully's in Thiensville. This modern, recently renovated, very romantic venue was the perfect spot for Karen and Scott to celebrate with family and friends. The food was delicious, the speeches were light-hearted, and guests danced through the night. Oh, and Sound by Design is incredible! This staple Milwaukee DJ company always brings the best atmosphere and provides a fun, fantastic dance party for wedding guests, and this wedding was no exception!
   Karen and Scott, I do not even know where to start. You are amazing human beings – caring, kind, grateful, and laid back – overall wonderful souls. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for choosing me and for being so kind. Cheers to a lifetime of bliss, health, and love! Love + Appreciation, Dom  Venue: The Watermark at Shully's Catering: Shully's Catering Photographer: Dominika Photographer Associate Photographer: Colleen Florist: Designs, Etc. Stationary: Paper Envy DJ: Sound by Design Videography: Champagne Studios Cake: Sweet Perfections Bridesmaids Dresses: Jenny Yoo (purchased at Miss Ruby Bridal Boutique) Wedding Dress: Morilee by Madeline Gardner (purchased at Bliss Bridal in Brookfield) Men's Suits: Joseph Abboud (purchased at Men's Warehouse) Makeup: The Hitching Post Hair: Nedret Lumani Linens: Windy City Linen Jewelry: Lampone Jewlers MEMORABLE MOMENT Since Karen and Scott's cute pup couldn't join them on their wedding day, Karen held him close by tying his photo to her bouquet.   HAILEY // CLASS OF 2019 Milwaukee Senior Session // Doctors Park // Fox Point, Wisconsin I had so much fun hanging out with Hailey at Doctor's Park for her senior session! This laid back and extremely talented senior was nothing short of amazing during her portraits. We chatted, she dipped her toes in the lake and we enjoyed a beautiful afternoon by Lake Michigan. Hailey, wishing you all the of the during your senior year!!  
 G. FAMILY Milwaukee Family Session // Mequon, Wisconsin Oh this sweet little family! I have been photographing them since their oldest one was a newborn. It's amazing to see how life has unfolded for them and the adventures it has brought along the way. I was so honored to photograph their growing family before their big move to Michigan this summer. Wishing you guys nothing but the best and we can't wait to come visit you guys in your new home State!
 
   ERIKA & JAY Irish Barn at Whistling Straits Wedding // Kohler, Wisconsin “In all the world, there is no heart for me like yours. In all the world, there is no love for you like mine.” – Maya Angelou Erika and Jay’s wedding was a love-filled affair seemingly too beautiful for words. The couple wed at Whistling Straits, a PGA golf course in Kohler, Wisconsin. Its distinctive fieldstone barn overlooks holes nine and ten and gorgeous Lake Michigan. The fieldstone structure is reminiscent of barns in the Irish countryside, serving as a unique, lovely location for a rustic yet elegant wedding. Their chosen location aligned perfectly with their boho-chic theme full of neutral colors and lush greenery. The exquisite backdrop set the scene for a romantic, emotional day. 
 
 
 
  
 The couple’s flower girls, Erika’s nieces, looked absolutely adorable, and they did a fantastic job walking down the aisle together. One of them ran down the aisle, laughing, and the other wanted to pick up every flower she dropped. They were too cute! Erika’s bridesmaids look stunning in their long, ornate gowns and Jay’s groomsmen look quite dapper in their chic, grey suits.
 
   
 The love that Erika and Jay share is strong and loving yet playful. They exchanged adorable, playful glances throughout the night, certainly conveying a laid back, loving feeling among the outdoor beauty and natural surroundings.  
   The couple honored their love of food by picking out a delicious spread for their guests. Among the selection was a taco bar and French fries with amazing dipping sauces. Guests danced the night away and enjoyed the rustic atmosphere of the Irish barn.
Erika and Jay, your wedding was simply beautiful, and I am so grateful to have captured your incredible day! Cheers to a lifetime of happiness, health, and love. Love + Appreciation, Dom  Venue : Irish Barn at Whistling Straits Photographer : Dominika Photographer Associate Photographers : Colleen Florist: Whistling Straits (Abbey) DJ: Sound By Design Live Acoustic Performer - Joe Wray Videographer - Adam Presti Editor : Sharp Editorial MEMORABLE MOMENT Erika honored her late father by having his photo on her bouquet, so although he was not there in person, he was certainly there in spirit.   NICOLE // CLASS OF 2019 Milwaukee Senior Session I had such a wonderful time photographing Nicole during her Senior Portrait Session in Milwaukee's Third Ward and Walker's Point districts. She is not only a talented dancer but a beautiful soul inside and out. Good luck in your senior year girlie! You will do great things! 
 
 Milwaukee Maternity Session // P. Family // Blue mound Golf & Country Club // Wauwatosa, Wisconsin8/14/2018  P. FAMILY Milwaukee Maternity Session // Blue Mound Golf & Country Club // Wauwatosa, Wisconsin Oh my goodness, I am slightly obsessed with this golf themed maternity session at Blue Mound Golf & Country Club. The P. Family looked radiant! Beautiful mom to be, fun loving toddler and stunning afternoon light. You guys, this is a photographers dream and I feel so lucky to have amazing clients like this. Enjoy this little sneak peek into their fun family session! 
     
And that's a wrap!  Chicago Engagement // Brittany & Charlie // Lincoln Park Zoo - South Pond // Chicago, Illinois8/7/2018  BRITTANY & CHARLIE Chicago Engagement Session // Lincoln Park Zoo - South Pond, Chicago Illinois I loved spending the afternoon with Brittany and Charlie in Chicago! Their Lincoln Park engagement session was fun and relaxing. Lincoln Park, especially the South Pond, area is one of my favorite places in Chicago. It provides a wonderful mixture of an urban and natural environment as well shows off the magnificent Chicago skyline. Brittany and Charlie, thank you for spending the afternoon with me! Thank you for the laughter and fun conversation! I can't wait to photograph your stunning Chicago wedding in November.
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