A Vibrant Celebration & Wedding at Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel in Milwaukee

Bold Hues, Artistic Details, and Modern Romance in the Heart of Downtown Milwaukee

How They Met

Abbey and Izaac first met in their Groups and Teams Communication class at UW–Milwaukee. From the moment Izaac saw Abbey walk into the room, he was captivated. Though they weren’t in the same group that semester, they often exchanged glances across the classroom and chatted briefly about class topics. The real connection began the following semester when they both found themselves in another class together again. Familiar faces on the first day, they chose to sit together, and over time their conversations before class became a regular routine. Izaac made it a point to get to know Abbey better, keeping things easy and genuine, even after a few politely declined hangout invitations.

Their friendship grew during a study session Abbey organized before an exam, one that Izaac happened to be the only one to attend, which thrilled Izaac. The two spent the afternoon laughing and studying, pretending to be a couple answering questions. Both, receiving an A on that exam. From that day, their bond deepened. When the semester ended, Izaac invited Abbey out for a celebratory drink, and this time, she said yes. The night ended with a kiss and a promise of more to come.

How They Got Engaged

Izaac had planned nearly every detail of his proposal to Abbey. He wanted it to be perfect; by the lake, surrounded by family, captured in photos, and followed by great food and celebration. His plan was to propose at Lakeshore Park, a beautiful spot along Lake Michigan near downtown Milwaukee, and then head to Merriment Social in the Third Ward, where both of their families would be waiting to celebrate.

When the moment finally came, nerves took over. As Izaac dropped to one knee, he completely forgot the speech he had rehearsed and accidentally kept his sunglasses on…but none of that mattered. Abbey said yes, and the joy of the moment was captured by his uncle and aunt, who had been hiding nearby with cameras ready.

After the proposal, Izaac led Abbey to Merriment Social, where the surprises continued. As they pulled up, Abbey noticed his mom’s car out front and started to piece things together. When they walked inside, both families erupted in cheers, and Abbey was overwhelmed with happy tears. The night was filled with laughter, love, and celebration—a perfect start to the next chapter of their lives together.

Looking Back

Three Words that Described the Day:
“Joyful, Radiant and Magical”

What Vendors Impressed You the Most?
“We loved all our vendors so much! Rolando from Van Rixel Productions was absolutely top notch. Ambrosia was exactly what we wanted in a wedding planner—a one-stop shop for everything we needed to make the day what it was. Jasmine (hair) and Lindsay (make-up) are incredibly talented; everyone felt confident and beautiful walking down the aisle.

And Saint Kate Art Hotel… WOW. The food, the service, the experience—it was everything and more!

Last but certainly not least, our photographer Tori Phillips made us feel so comfortable in front of the camera. She truly became one of the guests, blending in seamlessly while capturing every moment perfectly.”

What Moment Sticks With You the Most?
“This is such a hard question! From the moment the doors opened and I saw everyone looking at me as I walked down the aisle to my husband, to the heartfelt speeches our dads, Best Man, Matron and Maid of Honor gave—it was all unforgettable. I also can’t forget the quiet moment we shared alone in the ballroom before our guests came in for the reception. Everything that happened on August 16th is a memory we’ll cherish forever. Being in a room full of love and support is a feeling that words can’t describe—just happy tears!”

Special Tips or Advice to Future Couples?
“Take moments to walk away with each other or to look around the room and soak up all the love that is around you. It truly does go by so fast!”

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