The Planning Process

Rather than chasing every trend they saw online, Olivia and Eric focused on creating a celebration that felt inviting. Soft whites, creamy florals, velvet linens, and candlelight transformed The Rivulet into the cozy dinner party they had imagined from the very beginning.

Pinterest helped spark ideas, but planner Mandi Benjamin with The Journey Event Planning took those inspirations and instead of recreating photos they’d saved, she took their inspiration to create a mood board and design that felt uniquely theirs.

Wedding Day Looks

Olivia’s wedding day look reflected the same philosophy as the rest of the celebration; classic, understated, and effortlessly beautiful. After trying on several gowns, she found herself unexpectedly falling for a Danielle Frankel design that felt both modern and timeless.

“Once I put it on, I never wanted to take it off,” she says. “I felt so confident and comfortable.”

Soft waves and natural makeup completed the look, while Eric and his groomsmen opted for classic black tuxedos. Rather than coordinating identical bridesmaid dresses, Olivia encouraged each of her bridesmaids to choose a floor-length gown they felt their best in.

Wedding Ceremony

Set inside the stunning Old St. Mary’s Catholic Church, the ceremony embraced tradition in a space that hardly needed any extra decoration.

Still adorned for Christmas, the church’s historic architecture and festive details created a breathtaking backdrop all on it’s own.

Olivia walked down the aisle to “Canon in D” as her Uncle Mark played piano, adding an especially personal touch to the ceremony.

Capturing the Day

Choosing Patrick Betcher of Betcher Photo was an easy decision after Olivia and Eric fell in love with his documentary style. Rather than focusing solely on posed portraits, they wanted someone who could capture the emotion and in-between moments they might otherwise miss.

After family portraits at the church, they explored some of Milwaukee’s most iconic locations, including the Milwaukee Public Library Rotunda and the Historic Third Ward sign, a spot that held special meaning because of its connection to Olivia’s family. Between dodging traffic for photos beneath the sign, laughing with their wedding party, and sharing an emotional first look with Olivia’s dad, the gallery became more than a collection of beautiful images. It became a way to relive the day one genuine moment at a time.

The Reception

If there was one goal for the reception, it was simple: everyone should leave saying they had a great night. The Rivulet was the perfect place to bring that vision to life. Nestled in Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward, its rich interiors, cozy ambiance, and proximity to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks made it an easy choice for the couple’s romantic winter celebration.

Olivia and Eric invested heavily in the food and drinks because they wanted guests to relax, stay awhile, and celebrate together. Saz’s Catering didn’t disappoint from cocktail hour all the way through the main course. Cocktail hour featured Wisconsin-inspired bites before everyone gathered around family-style tables for dinner. Simma’s Bakery provided the perfect sweet ending to dinner.

Then came one of the night’s biggest surprises. Inspired by the years they spent living in Florida, the couple rented a frozen margarita machine, proving that frozen drinks absolutely belong at a Wisconsin winter wedding. Guests loved it.

The celebration only picked up from there with Milwaukee Airwaves:

“Our DJ Parker was incredible, our dance floor was literally packed the entire night! We never left, it was SO MUCH FUN!!”

The final song, “Wonderwall” by Oasis, was chosen as a nod to Eric’s time working for The Minnesota Loons, where it’s played after every victory. Surrounded by everyone they love, it became the perfect way to close out a day that never stopped feeling joyful.

Advice from the Bride and Groom

“There is SO much content at your fingertips for wedding inspiration and it can feel like you cannot keep up at times. Stick to what you love and what is important to the two of you and it will be the best day ever!”