The Planning

Megan and Drake planned their wedding in seven months with a clear priority: be near the water. They found exactly what they wanted on the shores of Lake Michigan at Blue Harbor Resort. The setting did a lot of the talking, so their style stayed simple and formal, leaning into a clean black-and-white palette without going over the top.
Their main goal was presence. They wanted time with each guest, real conversations, and a day that felt easy to enjoy instead of rushed. Since golf is a big part of their lives, they added a few playful touches that still fit the vibe. Rather than clinking glasses, guests had to sink a putt on a putting mat before Megan and Drake would share a kiss. They also used golf flags as their guest book, creating keepsakes they can hang at home. Favors doubled as golf ball markers, made from poker chips personalized with their last name and wedding date.
Planning support came from Annalise Zwicky, who helped keep everything organized. Invitations were ordered through Mint, and custom signage came from an Etsy vendor.
Florals were created by their friend Taylor, who made the day feel even more personal by using flowers from her own garden. Megan and Drake say the floral installation was their favorite design element, and it is easy to see why.

WEDDING DAY LOOKS

Bridal Boutique:
Miss Ruby Bridal Boutique, Milwaukee
Megan tried on 10 dresses before finding the one. Fit was everything, but the detail that sealed it was iconic: pockets. It was a splurge, and it ended up being completely worth it.

Menswear:
Men’s Wearhouse
Drake wore a black suit with a Rat Pack feel, inspired by Frank Sinatra.

Rings:
Nesemann’s Diamond Center

Hair, Makeup, and Nails:
Megan did her own hair, makeup, and nails, keeping her look polished and true to her style. She did not do trial runs.

THE CEREMONY

The ceremony was held outside at Blue Harbor Resort with Lake Michigan as the backdrop. Decor stayed clean and simple, centered around a white arch that framed the shoreline behind them.
Music was thoughtfully chosen, too. Drake created a ceremony playlist where every song meant something to them, giving the moment an extra layer of intention without needing anything complicated.
A close friend, Nathan Grave, officiated. Megan walked down the aisle to a violin version of “Ordinary” by Alex Warren, a song they had seen Alex perform at Summerfest, which made it feel even more connected to their real-life memories.
One of their favorite moments came during their walk down the aisle together, followed by a photo with everyone in the background. It was one of those scenes you can replay in your head forever, and they know that photo will always bring them right back.
Megan and Drake also noted that Lake Michigan in September is hard to beat, especially for a wedding. The light, the breeze, the view, it all shows up.

CAPTURING THE DAY

For photography, Megan and Drake chose Sam Lauersdorf Photography. They already knew her well, and they even worked with her, so her style resonated with them right away. They were thrilled to have picked someone who felt like a true fit, both personally and creatively.
Photos stayed close to the venue and the shoreline, capturing the lake as it exists in their everyday life. Lake Michigan is their happy place, where they watch sunrises over coffee on weekends and chase sunsets in summer. Bringing that into their wedding gallery made the images feel even more like them.

THE RECEPTION

The reception also took place at Blue Harbor Resort, keeping the day easy for everyone. The location mattered deeply, since they wanted to celebrate in Sheboygan, where their story began.
Their reception style stayed clean and simple with small nods to golf woven in. Instead of a DJ, they used a playlist that kept the mood exactly how they wanted it.
They skipped a traditional first dance, focusing instead on being present with their guests and enjoying the flow of the day.
Food was served brunch-style, with French toast, pancakes, scrambled eggs, bacon, and sausage. Specialty cocktails included Bloody Marys and mimosas, which fit the brunch vibe perfectly. Dessert came from AspenOak Bakery.

Looking Back

Megan and Drake describe the day as picturesque, magical, and romantic, with the lake doing what it does best in September. Two moments stand out most: their first looks, which they say will stay with them forever, and the speeches from Drake’s brother and Megan’s father, which brought real tears to the room. They also give a big shoutout to their photographer and venue, saying both truly delivered and were wonderful to work with.

ADVICE FROM THE BRIDE AND GROOM

Megan and Drake’s advice is simple and strong: put your wants and needs first. It is easy for opinions to pile up during planning, but the day should reflect the two of you. When the choices come back to what matters most to you, the whole process gets clearer.