Jason & Emily’s lush Green Bay Botanical Wedding

Jason and Emily met, as many couples do these days, through a computer. After connecting, via a mutual friend, and exchanging messages back and forth the couple realized how much they had in common and decided to meet face to face, after which, a relationship quickly blossomed. It was on a trip to Hawaii that Jason asked Emily to marry him, but it wasn’t as easy as he envisioned. He was planning on popping the question during a scenic hike but rain, Emily almost spoiling the plan by using his phone to navigate, and construction all had to be overcome. Finally they were able to start their hike and after reaching the top Jason asked Emily to spend the rest of their lives together, to which she happily said yes to.

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The couple opted to have a private, first-glance in the tall grass under the shade of an old growth tree at Baird’s Creek and were able to share a few moments together before things got underway.

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The ceremony took place at the Kress Rose Garden, in the Green Bay Botanical Gardens, a location that couldn’t have been more perfect says Emily, “It was a warm, sunny day with clear, blue skies. The green grass and beautiful flowers couldn’t have been more perfect.” The ceremony was immensely personal to the bride and groom with family and friends from all over the world in attendance. Several friends provided the readings, two of which performed a vocal duo of “A Thousand Years” which brought everyone to tears.
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“I love to plan events so we both knew this one needed to be extra special, since we have a mutual love of travel we decided to go with a romantic vintage travel theme which we incorporated throughout our big day.” Details included engagement pictures on an airport tarmac, tables bearing the names of countries the couple planned to visit on their honeymoon, and handmade luggage tag place cards. The couple also brought in the help of Sash and Bow wedding consultant for assistance with making their ideas a reality and decorating tips.
The couple tackled a number of DIY projects for their big day, often with friends lending a hand. “We are very fortunate to have a friend who is a beautiful graphic designer/artist who was able to help us in hand-making our invitations, programs, and chalkboards,” says Emily. The pair created their place cards to look like vintage, stamped passports, further playing on their theme of travel. The table names were made via a 3-D printer.
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The reception was also held at the Green Bay Botanical Gardens, lit by large open windows with tables covered in collections of globes, vintage travel luggage, candles, and beautiful flower arrangements courtesy of Buds and Bloom. A great feature of the outside/inside nature of the Gardens is that guests could enjoy cocktails on the patio as well as enjoying the inside decorations. Amber Crisp of the Gardens was especially helpful to the couple, “She was always willing to help me out and answer my questions.”
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Looking back on her wedding Emily has just one qualm, that she spent too much time sweating the small stuff, “I loved the planning process but my husband would tell you that it consumed my life. I wished I hadn’t obsessed so much about the little things and enjoyed the simplicity of two love-birds being engaged.”

Advice that the couple would give to future spouses to enjoy the moment, “It will be special no matter where or what you do!”

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Photographer~  Adam Lesage and the crew of Defining 78- made our wedding day and engagement session more fun than we would have ever thought.
Bridal Shows Attended~  Wedding Show at Shopko Hall, of which she says couldn’t be missed, “It was a must! To see all the great ideas was a lot of fun.”
Wedding Consultant~ Sash & Bow for consultant and decorating.
Invitations~ Erica Pendergast
Rehearsal Dinner~ Angelina’s Italian Restaurant
Ceremony Location~Kress Rose Garden at the Green Bay Botanical Gardens
Reception Location~Green Bay Botanical Gardens
Caterer~ The Hyatt, Angela Jelum was awesome!
Cake Designer/Dessert~ Simple Simon Bakery
Flowers~ Buds and Bloom
Music/Entertainment~ Shaun Shouldeen, DJ S2
Transportation~  Lamer’s Bus Lines provided transportation back to the hotel after the reception was over.

Bridal Salon~ Elaine’s Bridal
Bridesmaid Gowns~David’s Bridal
Hair~ Ashley Niemuth
Make up~ Erin Schmalz
Men’s Formalwear~  Macy’s and J Crew
Rings (hers)~ Krueger’s Jewelers
Rings (his)~Ken & Dana online
Party Rental Company (linens, tents, chairs etc.)~  Budget Bride for Linens
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