Emotion Swells at Door County Destination Wedding

Emotions are expected on a wedding day — joy, laughter, tears, happiness — as a whole range of feelings hits couples on their big day.

We knew Chris and Sara would wear their emotions on their figurative sleeves (well Sara didn’t have sleeves on her gorgeous Enzoani gown, but you get my point). Both bride and groom had waited a long time and planned an amazing day for guests of their beautiful destination wedding earlier this month at Gordon Lodge in Baileys Harbor.

These two are deeply in love and support each other in everything they do, so of course emotions were high.

Door County holds a special place in their hearts. Chris’ family has had a home there for years. Chris had shared his love for the region’s stunning views of Lake Michigan and beautiful forested lands with Sara, so it’s no surprise they said their “I dos” at Gordon Lodge.

Ready to Wow

For a destination wedding, we almost always arrive early and try to have an extra “romantic” video session with the couple, especially when its Door County. We had planned a midday sailing shoot with these two, but Wisconsin’s fickle weather kept the wind gusts too strong to fly our drone.

I was bummed out, but I have to say now that I’ve scanned all the wedding day footage, we didn’t need the extra shoot. Amazing toasts and incredible heartfelt personal vows, their cinematic film is going to wow everyone.

Our Favorite Things

What did we love about working with Chris and Sara?

First, these two are incredibly open and trusting. When we asked questions, they answered. And when they shared meaningful moments, they never blinked at having us around. That level of trust is so rewarding. (I gotta admit: I was totally teary-eyed during their ceremony!)

Second: They planned a perfect day, everything from the surprise bouquet Chris sent to Sara on the morning of their wedding day, to amazing personal vows that illuminated why they love each other, a rockin’ cocktail hour and a reception that left guests entirely happy they had traveled to one of Wisconsin’s most beautiful locations.

Third: We were lucky to work with some of our favorite wedding pros: Chandra from Door County Event Planners, Amy from Gordon Lodge and the incomprobale photographer Jason Mann. When you work with people who care deeply about their clients and strive to give them the absolute best, as well as prioritize collaboration, there’s just nothing better.

Emotions to Start the Day

When I started scrubbing the footage from this wedding, I knew that the couples’ card readings and first look before the ceremony would anchor their Sneak Peek. I can’t tell you how many times I had tears welling up in my own eyes as I edited the footage. That’s how beautiful these two are together.

We hope you enjoy their Sneak Peek as much as we did creating it and that it satisfies everyone’s cravings for more until we can get their final project finished down the road.

Planner: Chandra Johnson of Door County Event Planners

Photographer: Jason Mann Photography

Venue: Gordon Lodge

Officiant: Bobby Coverston

DJ: Elite Music Service

Florist: Flora

Cakes: Bake My Day

Donuts: Wood Orchard

Bride’s gown: Enzoani from Posh Bridal, Minneapolis

Bridesmaid attire: Jenny Yoo from Bella Bridesmaid, Minneapolis

Groom’s attire: Indochino

Bride’s hairstylist and makeup: Sara Miller