Delavan Lake, Wisconsin Wedding Photography at Lake Lawn Resort – Mark & Kelly

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“Nobody puts baby in a corner.”

We couldn’t help keeping this quote from popping into our heads the moment we arrived at the Lake Lawn Resort to photograph Mark and Kelly’s summertime wedding on Delavan Lake in Wisconsin.  Known as the resort-area for the affluent Chicago crowd, Lake Lawn Resort definitely gave off the feel of the Kellerman’s resort in Dirty Dancing – and the similarities didn’t stop there.  The groom’s family has been vacationing here for three generations, and they were delighted to welcome Kelly’s family and friends to one of their favorite places in the world.

When we arrived on that gorgeous Saturday morning, the skies were crystal clear and the waves were gently rolling into the shore with a most relaxing rhythm.  After scouting out the sprawling resort, we met up with Kelly and her ladies in their gigantic suite that combined rustic décor with modern amenities.  Kelly had already been to the Clear Water Salon & Day Spa for her bridal beautification and was having fun just relaxing and chatting with her ladies over lunch.

Kelly chose to wear two different gowns on her wedding day, and each gown had a beautiful story.  The first gown that she wore for the ceremony belonged to her mother, Mary.  Mary passed away when Kelly was younger, and Kelly chose to honor and remember her mother by wearing her gown and carrying the same handkerchief that her mother carried on her wedding day.  The gown, with a high neckline and empire waist, was absolutely perfect and fit Kelly like a glove.  Kelly’s mom obviously had serious style, eschewing the puffy-sleeved wedding dresses that were so popular in her generation for this much more simple and classic look.   Kelly’s second dress, a custom-made design from a friend featuring a Cinderella silhouette and sparkly golden accents, was a perfect choice for partying at the reception.   Love, love, love each choice!

While we were hanging out with the girls, Mark was finishing up a game of golf on the resort’s course with the men in his family.  Golf games are such a regular part of Mark’s family vacations that it was the perfect way for him to relax before the wedding.  As the guys were getting ready, the Lake Lawn Resort staff set up for the ceremony, decorating the arbor with sweet and simple hydrangea arrangements.

Before we knew it, it was time to assemble the bridal party and head down for the lakeside ceremony.  Kelly and Mark chose to fill their bridal party with little people, and their 6 angelic flower girls led the processional with the most adorable “Here Comes the Bride” signs that we’ve ever seen.  Kelly joined arms with her father and made her way down the aisle with a smile so bright and happy that all the guests couldn’t help but grin, too.

After Mark and Kelly were pronounced husband and wife, we set off for some fun portraits around the resort campus while their guests enjoyed cocktails on the pavilion by the lake.  Kelly and Mark have such ridiculously fun personalities that the resort’s arcade was a perfect spot for a little friendly competition and photo shoot.  Winner takes all?  😉

We joined back up with the guests at cocktail hour and were treated to some incredibly touching and hilarious toasts from family, including an anecdote from Mark’s sister about a fateful game of footsie that indicated just how crazy Kelly was about Mark.  After recovering from fits of laughter, guests were welcomed into the reception, picking up their vintage Lake Lawn Resort postcards with seating arrangements and settling at their Anthropologie-inspired tables.  The beautiful centerpiece arrangements from I Love Funky’s Shop included dried flowers, burlap accents, and vintage keys.  We got to hear more amusing speeches from Mark and Kelly’s best people (the story about spring break at Quantico made me wish I went to high school with Kelly) before they opened up the dance floor with their First Dance.

We had heard throughout the evening about how urban Mark and Kelly seemed to some of their friends – living in the big city, knowing all the hottest restaurants and clubs, and wearing the latest fashions.  Well, we have to say that Mark and Kelly definitely brought some big-city fun to their reception in the form of a most awesome rave party, complete with tons of glow accessories.  Style Matters DJs provided the perfect tunes and everyone had a great time – from grandpas wearing electric galeas to the line of guests doing the limbo under glowsticks.    It was incredible!

Mark and Kelly, you charmed us with your small-town hospitality and big-city style – thank you so much for inviting us to your home-away-from-home and including us in your special day!  We hope to see you again soon!

If you are looking for a wedding photographer in the Chicago or Wisconsin areas to capture the memorable moments at your wedding, and interested in our availability and pricing, please drop us a line using the online inquiry form here.