This weekend was incredible! I had two gorgeous weddings, kicking off with Samantha and Taylor at the Arrowhead Yacht Club at Lake Winnebago.

The day started with an unfortunate forecast. Samantha had her heart set on a beautiful ceremony overlooking the lake, but instead, heavy rain was predicted and we were forced to move indoors. That didn't dampen their spirits though since the amazing venue coordinator was able to transform the dance floor into an intimate ceremony space filled.

Even though it was raining most of the day, I'm so glad we were still able to capture an epic sunset overlooking the lake. Samantha wanted those sunset pictures so badly. She even texted me throughout the year beautiful sunsets from their property, so I was super sad when it looked like we were only going to get grey skies. Thankfully, the weather had other plans. The rain lightened up a bit and the sunset broke through the clouds, turning the entire sky orange. Storm sunsets are always the best sunsets. I used my trusty clear umbrella to create incredible images. With the help of the rain and the beautiful sky, we were able to make Samantha's sunset dreams come true.

My favorite part of the night happened at the very end. I was informed at the beginning of the reception that Taylor planned to surprise Samantha with a fireworks show. We weren't sure if it was going to happen with the storms, but he managed to pull through. It's very rare I get the chance to photograph a couple with a background of fireworks. This wasn't just any fireworks show! This was a professional-grade fireworks show that lit up the sky. Major kudos to Taylor for pulling this all together without Samantha having any clue.

To Taylor and Samantha, thank you so much for allowing me to capture your gorgeous day at the Arrowhead Yacht Club. It was so fun watching you two interact throughout the day and start this life together at a place that means so much to both of you. I've enjoyed getting to know you over the past year, from your engagement session to your iconic wedding day. We had so much fun capturing your memories!

Here's your full preview! More to come shortly!

Venue: Arrowhead Yacht Club

Floral: Jack's Floral

DJ: Jukebox Media

- Hear from the bride -

Share your inspiration and the atmosphere you're creating for your wedding:

elegant, simple, yet a great time

Share how (or why) you chose your wedding venue(s):

We both love the water and boating. The yacht club and Lake Winnebago are also a very special place for Taylor (groom) and his family. This is the lake he grew up on. His father chose this lake to raise his family. Unfortunately his father also died on this lake in a tragic accident but the lake brings the family peace and brings them closer to the memories. Taylor was 10 when his father died but his oldest sister was 20.

Also, we both moved to the neighborhood in the middle of June.

What is your most valuable piece of advice you can share with future couples planning their wedding?

There are so many details that you don't even think about until someone else mentions them!

What was your favorite part of the planning process?

I enjoyed spending time with family and friends through the wedding planning process.