Rachel & Derrick’s Terrace 167 Wedding in Richfield, Wisconsin

A Beach Proposal

Rachel and Derrick met at the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire, each playing on the university’s club volleyball teams. They were vacationing with Derrick’s family in Hilton Head, South Carolina, when Derrick popped the question. The couple had decided to take a sunset walk along the beach, and Derrick’s brother Harrison wanted to come along. “Harrison is into photography as one of his hobbies, so at the time I didn’t think it was unusual that he was bringing his camera,” Rachel says.

While walking, both Harrison and Derrick seemed to get a little frazzled when the lens of the camera kept fogging up. A few minutes later, Derrick asked Rachel to take a picture together, to test out the camera. “At that moment, he dropped to one knee to propose! I started crying right away because I was truly so surprised. It was an amazing moment I will cherish forever!”

Wedding Planning—and a Pandemic

Derrick and Rachel planned a November wedding at Terrace 167 in Richfield, Wisconsin. “The venue has a very rustic vibe with Edison lights and unique decorations.” The couple say that planning during Covid was certainly a challenge. “We had great vendors that were easy to work with and so helpful! We loved everything about each of our vendors and would book them again for services if needed in a heartbeat. They were all so kind, professional, and provided amazing service.”

Rachel and Derrick pressed on with their wedding plans in the face of the pandemic. They were even able to have their Lutheran marriage ceremony outside because it was such a beautiful day. For their rustic, autumn theme, the couple chose dark grey and wine colored suits and dresses. Bridesmaid dresses came from Amelishan Bridal. The flowers included blush, greenery, cream, and wine-colored blooms.

The Big Day

On the day of the wedding, both the ceremony and reception took place at Terrace 167. The venue also provided transportation and bartending services. The bride and groom stopped at Richfield Historic Natural Park for photos with their photographer, SB Photography and Design.

To decorate the space, Rachel and Derrick painted and put together all of the centerpieces, table assignment board, and table decorations. Rachel says, “I loved planning all of the decorations, our guest book, and just all the small details that really helped make the day special.” In the end, they say the moment that sticks with them the most was “Saying ‘I do’ and being announced as husband and wife.”

One last bit of advice from the bride:

“Enjoy the process! Do your research, manage your time wisely, and ask for help when needed. It goes by so quickly and you invest so much time in making the day perfect. You don’t want to spend all your time being upset or stressed. Live in the moment and cherish every second of your big day.”