Lauren + Patrick
June 26, 2021 / Oconomowoc, Wisconsin
How did your love story begin?: Patrick and I met back in college. We matched on Tinder, but also had mutual friends. One day at volleyball practice my friend mentioned that he had a crush on me so I decided to message him. The first time we met in person I asked him how many kids he wanted and how he envisioned his future. I am still surprised to this day that didn't scare him off, but I guess I just knew that he was the one.
Patrick proposed in Tosa Village on the bridge strung with lights. He told me we were going to dinner with his parents at my favorite restaurant (Café Hollander). As we were walking in he dropped down on one knee. I have no clue what he said because I basically blacked out, but I said yes! We walked in to the restaurant to find our closest friends and family there cheering us on. He really nailed the whole proposal thing.
What was your vision for your wedding?: Modern Boho was the vibe I was really stuck on. I knew how I envisioned our day, found some inspo and just rolled with it. I wanted everything to feel light and airy, so flowers and the venue were really important to me. It also really helps having a bridesmaid who is a florist. Our flowers turned out better than I could have ever imagined. She took my vision and far exceeded it.
We wanted to the day to feel elegant but casual at the same time. It was important to us to create an atmosphere where everyone could feel relaxed and have the best time. We wanted people on the dance floor the entire night and man did we! No one wanted to leave. All of our vendors really helped us create that atmosphere. We could truly see ourselves being friends with each one of our vendors. They are amazing at what they do but are even better people.
Tell us all about your wedding dress!: I saw my dress on the Strike Insta page and knew I needed to try it on, so I went ahead and made an appointment. It was everything I really envisioned in a dress. I always loved tulle but wanted something fitted, so my Alena Leena dress was perfect for me. Sure enough, I tried it on and fell in love. I had another appointment right after, but as I tried on a few dresses at the next boutique, I could not get the dress out of my head. We headed right back to Strike and I said yes to the dress!
My experience at Strike was amazing! It was my first dress appointment, so needless to say I was a bit nervous. The second I walked in the door, I felt so comfortable and no pressure at all. I love how unique and personal Strike Bridal is. You don't feel like a number and they really just want you to feel absolutely beautiful and comfortable on your big day.
You planned and you planned, but how did the day ACTUALLY go?!: Wedding planning is hard! You spend so much time planning all these little details but a lot of them are out of your control. I was obsessed with checking the weather for our wedding day. We were having an outdoor ceremony so rain was just not in the picture. When the day came there was a 50% chance of rain, so we decided to move the ceremony inside and it turned out to be the best decision. Of course I was a little sad because I loved the idea of an outdoor ceremony, but the second I walked down the aisle it started pouring, it was so perfect. It rained the entire ceremony but suddenly stopped as soon as our ceremony ended. Gloomy days are also the best for photos! I am sure other minor things didn't goes as planned but the day felt absolutely perfect!
I think my favorite part was how the day truly just felt like us as a couple. We found ways to sneak in little touches of who we are, like having an ice cream bar in place of cake. I loved how our personalities were captured throughout the day and how each of our guests were able to be relaxed and themselves as well.
What is your best advice for future brides-to-be?: Just roll with it! The day will turn out exactly how it is meant to, so there is no point in stressing. The only thing your guests will remember is how happy you and your significant other looked. Nothing else matters. Also, if you know what you like just trust yourself regardless of opinions. Make sure that the day is a reflection of you as a couple.
Vendors
Dress: Heuchera by Alena Leena via Strike Bridal Bar
Venue: Carriage House at Lac La Belle
Photographer: Morgan Photo Co
DJ: A Personal Touch DJ
Hairstylist: Lexi Lee
Makeup Artist: Teresa Herman
Caterer: Bubb's BBQ
