Wedding Day Looks

Bridal Boutique:
Vera’s House of Bridals

How Many Dresses Tried On:
Rachel only tried on one dress, and it was perfect!

Bridesmaids Gowns:
Kennedy Blue

Men’s Formalwear:
Men’s Wearhouse

Rings:
Lee Ayer’s Jewelers– Stevens Point

Hair and Makeup:
Karly Karlen

The Ceremony

Jed and Rachel chose UW–Stevens Point for their ceremony, saying “I do” on the Old Main front lawn. As alumni, the campus already held a special place in their story, and the historic building, paired with the sweeping lawn, created a naturally beautiful backdrop that needed little extra décor.

Midwest Sound and Entertainment handled the ceremony music, and Rachel walked down the aisle to “Crazier” by Taylor Swift. Their officiant was Louis Molepske—their boss who had hired them both—which made the ceremony feel personal and a little full-circle. He talked about how they met, how they’ve grown, and the relationship he’d seen develop over the years.

The weather brought the heat, but the UW–Stevens Point event coordinators stepped up in a big way. They rearranged and adjusted as needed to keep guests as comfortable as possible and to ensure everything stayed on track.

The standout moment for Jed and Rachel was reading their vows to each other for the first time in front of their family and friends. It was honest, emotional, and the part of the day that sticks with them most.

Capturing the Day

Photography was a big deal for Rachel, so she went with someone she already trusted: Valerie Donahue Photography. After seeing Valerie in action at a friend’s wedding, she knew she wanted that same energy and style for their own day.

Valerie made sure photos never felt stiff or awkward. She helped with anything Rachel needed, kept things moving, and still managed to capture all the important moments.

Jed and Rachel took portraits at Schmeeckle Reserve, which tied in perfectly with their natural, early-summer feel, and at the Portage County Courthouse, where they originally met. Those locations helped tell the full story—school, work, and now the wedding.

One of their favorite photos from the day is their wedding party running up behind them and wrapping them in a group hug. It was fun, chaotic in the best way, and totally genuine.

Their biggest splurge was their videographer, Simply Love LLC. Friends had urged them not to skip the video, and they’re glad they listened. Now they have the vows, speeches, and dance floor moments saved in motion—not just in memory.

The Reception

The party continued at the Dreyfus University Center (DUC) on the UW–Stevens Point campus. The Alumni Room, checked all their boxes: naturally pretty, bright, and overlooking a fountain surrounded by flowers.

On-Point Catering at UW–Stevens Point basically did it all—catering, bartending, dessert, late-night eats, and rentals—which kept planning streamlined and stress low. The highlight of the menu was a taco bar that Jed and Rachel loved, and guests were all about it too!

To bring in their golden doodle, Winston, they created two signature drinks in his honor: the “Win-Jito” and “The Zoomies.” It was a fun touch that gave guests something to talk about at the bar.

Décor followed their lavender and sage color palette, with photos of Jed and Rachel sprinkled throughout the space. One especially thoughtful detail: each table had a blank card and envelope tied to its table number. Guests wrote notes for the couple to open on their matching anniversary in future years—a built-in tradition they’re excited to keep.

Midwest Sound and Entertainment kept people on the dance floor, starting with Jed and Rachel’s first dance to “In Your Love” by Tyler Childers. From there, it was all tacos, music, and time with their favorite people to celebrate them.

LOOKING BACK

If they had to sum up their wedding day in three words, Jed and Rachel would choose: perfect, joyful, and memorable.

The UW–Stevens Point event coordinators and On-Point Catering made a huge impact on the experience—especially with the hot weather and full schedule. And photographer, Valorie Donahue, stands out as someone who not only delivered gorgeous photos but also made the entire day easier and more fun.

They’re also grateful they decided not to do a first look. Seeing each other for the first time as Rachel walked down the aisle is a moment they’ll always treasure—and one they happily recommend to other couples considering whether to skip a first look.

Advice for Couples Planning a Wedding

Don’t sweat the small stuff. The day goes by so quickly and no one knows if something you had planned doesn’t end up working out. Soak in the moment with your partner, you’ll never get to experience that day with them again.