Amy and Patrick were married on July 1st, with a ceremony and reception at the Lawrence University Warch Center in Appleton, Wisconsin.

Pricing & Package Info: Adam Shea Photography

Amy and Patrick’s Love Story

These two met at Kimberly High School when Amy was taking a CAPP English course during her junior year. She had to write a lengthy research paper at the end of the year, and someone suggested that she ask Patrick to read a copy, since he had taken the class the year before. She got the paper back over a week later with a few helpful suggestions as well as plenty of sass in the comments. At the time, he thought she was smart and cute, and she was sure to thank him in the acknowledgements of her paper.

They stayed friends through high school into college as Patrick dated her high school friend and even introduced her to her first college boyfriend. But over time, those relationships fizzled, and they went on an “absolutely-not-a-date” coffee date that led to more dates until, eventually, they fell in love.

When Amy started her physician’s assistant program in spring 2015, Patrick surprised her with a mason jar filled with memories together, things he loved about her, and quotes. She was supposed to read one every day while she was gone at school. But then, that summer, he took her to the Madison Arboretum to get some fresh air and told her he had another note to add to the jar. It was a “memory” that said “that time we got engaged.” After she read it, she realized he was down on one knee!

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Lawrence University Warch Campus Center Wedding

On the day of the wedding, Amy had come extremely well-prepared, which helped tremendously with making sure we had enough time to do all the photos that we wanted. We took family pictures ahead of the ceremony so that the rest of the day wasn’t rushed, and of course, that also meant there was plenty of time for a first look. Even though Patrick had been hesitant about doing the first look, because he wanted a more traditional feeling to the day, it ended up being his favorite part of the whole day.

I was also sure to capture the details that went into Amy’s “something old, something new” tradition. She had her grandmother’s broach for “something old,” her ring for “something new,” her exit song “I’ve Got Rhythm” as her “something borrowed” as a borrowed idea from her cousin’s wedding, her shoes for “something blue,” and sixpence from the year her grandparents were married.

After the ceremony, while Amy was having her dress bustled, I could tell that she was reveling in the importance of the day. I crouched behind a pillar to take a few candid shots while she was standing there against the windows of the Warch Center, overlooking the Fox River, and noticed her calm, serene expression. I always want to see my brides and grooms able to be at ease when weddings are so often a whirlwind of activity. 

And while this was happening, Patrick stood behind her, leaning causally against a piano as he helped occasionally with the dress. Jake, Amy’s nephew, was seated at the piano with his little feet dangling over the bench. It was the perfect moment of togetherness as they joked around and talked together.

I also loved the sunset session that Amy had requested. I could tell that Amy was having fun as she stood on the railing of the overlook with her arms out wide. Patrick stood beside her, and they embraced. It was the perfect time to get these intimate pictures—after the pressure of speeches and pictures and everything else was gone.

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Wedding portraits with the whole family - even the dogs!

Of course, Amy and Patrick weren’t the only ones that I had fun photographing. Their families were extremely accommodating and nice, especially Milo and Tigger, their dogs. It was impossible not to smile when they were playing around!

Amy & Patrick, your wedding was so full of grace and elegance. Amy, your dancing background carried through in the poise with which you carried yourself that day. Patrick, your no-nonsense humor meshed perfectly with my own. I truly enjoyed serving you.

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Vendors

Rings - The Diamond Center (Madison, WI) 

Cake - Simple Simon Bakery

Bridal Gown - Vera's House of Bridals (Madison, WI) 

Bridesmaid Dresses - Elaine's Wedding and Event Center

Flower Girl Dress - Etsy

Bridal Party Hair - Salon Central

Bridal Party Makeup - Jenna Giordana Makeup Artistry

Menswear - DuBois Formalwear

Floral and Decor - Sweet N Easy Events

Day-Of Coordination - Sweet N Easy Events (Travis Andrew) 

DJ & Photobooth - Yo DJ Entertainment (James Kelley) 

Venue/Catering - Lawrence University Warch Center

Bridal Gown - Pronovias

Bridesmaid Dresses - Bill Levkoff