Katie & Caryn | A Cozy Wedding in the Wisconsin Northwoods

TylerVisions Photography

Caryn and Katie shared part of their wedding week in Vail, CO, just before Labor Day - - At the very same place where they had their first official date! But this wasn't their original plan...

Within about a week during the middle of their planning, Caryn and Katie faced one of the bumpiest roads I've ever encountered during planning a wedding. They had booked a florist that was no longer available. They got news that their officiant might not make it back from the military. They were having trouble connecting with a caterer. AND They would have to start a new search to replace their beloved photography duo in Wisconsin.

So life happens, but these lovely ladies faced it with grace and understanding. We were so, SO glad that we could help smooth things over and we have to thank the unbelievable vendors that came to their rescue for making this one of the most memorable events in the history of weddings! 

My husband and I packed up early on Saturday morning after a wedding the night before, and started our trek to the Northwoods.
It was hazy, and a little misty when the sun came up. Then it turned a little rainy on our northward travels. And then it down-poured. (Not like cats and dogs. Like elephants and whales, kind of down-poured!)

So what did we do even though Mother Nature had her own plans?

We rolled with it just like we did while planning the original celebration!
With the help of their A-MAZING friends, we started clearing out the mansion's furniture and hauling in tables and chairs and all sorts of rentals from the rain to create our indoor Plan B.
​
Turns out, it could not have been a more perfect setting for their tear-inducing vows and ring-warming ceremony, cozy cocktail hour, and candlelit dinner reception. 

With strands of bistro lights and dinner tables lined with votive candles, Caryn and Katie walked together into the middle of their guests to exchange their vows on the loft overlooking the first floor. Their rings, tied to a horseshoe, were passed through the circle of guests that surrounded them. A few guests including their parents and most influential people in their lives were asked to help with their vows. This was by far one of the most unforgettable ceremonies I've ever been witness to.

After the ceremony, guests mingled back to the first floor for cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, prepared by none-other-than the incredibly talented executive chef, Charles Behrmann. Caryn and Katie had been on the hunt for a caterer but things just weren't working out, when I knew exactly who to call!

Originally they had just talked about having someone other than family on-site to cook some burgers and create a relaxed outdoor dining experience for everyone. But Charlie worked his magic, and came up with the most beautiful spread of appetizers and "fancy" barbecue eats!

While guests enjoyed the bite-sized appetizers, cocktails, and a canoe full of beer downstairs, we busily reset the ceremony into a large community table for dinner. Guests were invited back upstairs with a personalized glass of champagne where they enjoyed a tasty dinner, followed by dessert, dancing, s'more's around the fire outside on the patio, air hockey, yard games, and a photo station in the mansion's private movie theater....this party had everything you could possibly want.

After all was said and done, the planning might not have taken the easiest route, but I truly believe their day turned out better than any of us ever thought possible. And I think they would both agree that sometimes the road less traveled leads to the most beautiful destination!

Caryn and Katie, the two of you have a lifetime of exciting travels and destinations ahead of you, and I for one am so happy that your paths led you to each other. I can't think of a better and more fun-loving couple to live out your grand adventure!

​
((P.S. You MUST check out their Colorado nuptials by Sullivan & Sullivan Photography, too))​

Caryn & Katie // 9.2.17 from Kyle Kadow Weddings on Vimeo.

>> ----------------- <<

​Vendor Love:
Synergy Salon and Spa // Hair + Make-up
The Cake Lady // Cake
Charles Behrman, Executive Chef  |  Catering
Kevin Paris // Live Entertainment
 Horants Garden Center  |  Florals
Oshkosh Event Rental  |  Rentals
TylerVisions Photography |  Photography
Kyle Kadow  |  Cinematography
Wild Eagle Lodge  |  Guest Accommodations
Cranberry Castle  |  Venue
Witt & Co. Events  |  Wedding Planner