The Planning Process

Matt and Sarina spent 13 months planning their November wedding, focusing on creating an atmosphere that reflected who they are as a couple.

Nature has always been a place where they feel most at home, so they leaned into warm, rustic design with rich burnt orange and deep green accents that celebrated the beauty of late fall. Rather than following trends, they focused on making the day feel inviting, cozy, and full of meaningful details.

Ashley, the day-of-coordinator at Hawk’s View Golf Club, helped bring their vision to life. The invitations introduced guests to the warm, earthy aesthetic they would experience throughout the celebration.

Sarina’s favorite design element of their wedding? “The florals and centerpieces by far,” she shared.

Wedding Day Looks

Sarina found her gown at The Wedding Design Studio in Lisle after trying on just five dresses. She instantly knew it was the one because of how beautiful it made her feel, but seeing her mom, sister, and best friend cry when she stepped out in it confirmed everything.

Her romantic lace gown paired beautifully with a flowing cathedral veil and soft, elegant curls styled by Katie Watson of Neo Bella Salon. Krysten Loebe created timeless bridal makeup that perfectly complemented the cozy autumn palette.

Matt chose a J. Hilburn suit that reflected his personal style while adding a meaningful twist to tradition. Instead of a floral boutonniere, he incorporated feathers, creating a unique look that fit seamlessly with the rustic aesthetic.

Their wedding bands from RC Wahl carried an especially sentimental detail. Each ring featured the couple’s birthstones embedded on the inside.

Wedding Ceremony

The covered outdoor pavilion at Hawk’s View Golf Club provided the perfect setting for Matt and Sarina’s ceremony, overlooking the rolling hills.

A striking geometric arbor served as the backdrop while lanterns, candles, and garden-inspired florals added the perfect accent.

“There was an English garden next to the venue and we wanted it to feel like we had just gone out and picked the flowers from there!”

One of the most memorable moments came when Sarina walked down the aisle. Seeing each other for the first time remains the moment both of them cherish most.

Adding even more emotion to the ceremony, they wrote their own vows and included their nieces and nephew in the celebration. The ceremony also featured an unexpected and fun personal touch, Sarina walked down the aisle to a piano rendition of the Formula 1 theme song.

Capturing the Day

After the couple’s initial phone meeting with Morgan Photo Co., they knew she would be their photographer.

“We got along instantly,” Sarina said. “She was so kind and absolutely wonderful to work with.”

Even when Wisconsin weather decided to make an appearance during portraits with a mix of rain and sleet, Morgan kept everyone smiling. Between photos, she even handed Sarina her own jacket to help keep her warm.

Aaron Moore Videography also played a memorable role throughout the day; going far beyond filming by making an emergency run to the liquor store so the couple could surprise the groomsmen with an unforgettable prank.

It’s those thoughtful moments, both big and small, that left the couple feeling like every vendor genuinely cared about making their wedding perfect.

The Reception

Inside Hawk’s View’s timber-framed reception space, candlelight, soft draping, and overflowing centerpieces transformed the room into the cozy gathering Matt and Sarina had imagined. They intentionally designed the tables to feel full from the centerpieces without sacrificing conversation.

Guests enjoyed chicken, beef, and fish entrées, but the whitefish became an unexpected favorite. Signature cocktails reflected each of their personalities; a spiced pear margarita for Sarina and a classic Old Fashioned for Matt.

One especially favorite addition was the “cozy corner,” where oversized lounge chairs created a comfortable space beside the dessert table, coffee station, and bar. It was a perfect space for guests to relax.

After the reception, Flowers by Grace collected the florals and donated them to a children’s hospital, an especially meaningful gesture for Sarina, who works with children.

Advice from the Bride and Groom

Matt and Sarina encourage couples to pause during the excitement of the reception and simply take it all in.

“Take a moment during your reception to step out and look in to see all the people who are there to celebrate you as a couple and the new journey you’re taking. It feels just like a scene from a movie.”

They also hope couples remember that choosing vendors who truly care makes all the difference. From lending jackets during portraits to perfecting every floral arrangement and going above and beyond in unexpected ways, they found themselves surrounded by professionals who treated them like family, and that’s something they’ll never forget.