Sophie Zang and Ben Hengst grew up down the street from each other in Cedarburg, where childhood friendship blossomed into teen romance when they started dating at age 15. After years together in high school followed by a four-year stint of long-distance during their college years, the duo found themselves nearly inseparable. As bride Sophie put it, "Long-distance reminded us how much we really do love to be together. As cheesy as it sounds, our personalities really work well together and it has always just felt right." For the planner of the relationship, Sophie, her suspicions flared when Ben planned a surprise getaway to one of their favorite spots, Key West. In between overnighting white dresses, getting her nails done and booking spray tan appointments, Sophie barely had time to pack and was even more taken aback when en route to the airport Ben took a detour and picked up her two best friends and sister. Surrounded by timeless romance at a local Key West resort, Ben got down on one knee and popped the question to a glowing Sophie, aptly adorned in one of her recently overnighted white dresses. A few days of celebration in Key West was only the beginning, as groom Ben had Sophie's dad, stepmom and godparents waiting when their plane landed in Milwaukee. An engagement party planned by Ben's parents brought both sides of the family together and even some out-of-state friends who made the trip.
For their wedding day, Sophie and Ben envisioned a glamorous fête at Hidden Glen Golf Club. The property's spaces were a vision of tranquility, and the entire event took place outdoors. Despite a little bit of pre-wedding weather stress, the day brought dazzling rays of sunlight into the ceremony and reception spaces. Despite some planning procrastination, the entire design came together seamlessly and focused on timeless colors and details. Black and white took center stage with the entire bridal party looking refined in formal attire. Sophie's gown from Strike Bridal Bar featured a dramatic silhouette with a chic square neckline and subtle mesh side cut-outs making for a romantic look. Monochromatic white florals were airy whispers of elegance, and bouquets centered around singular types of florals brought a unique coherence to the ceremony. To capture their day, Jess Livingston Photo shot a candid, stylish POV from start to finish, a showcase of authentic emotion and lasting glamour.
Fun details added a slight edge while keeping things classic in black and white; newspaper fans that Sophie had pulled inspiration from on TikTok were a welcomed addition to the ceremony. Ben's dad also helped to handcraft marble signage around the reception, featuring a cocktail menu and fun facts about the couple. Overall, the day stuck to tradition and paid homage to the couple's Wisconsin roots, notably found at the pre-ceremony bar where guests could stock up on a drink for the nuptials. The reception featured sleek tablescapes with black linens and signage accenting white florals and tablecloths. String lights softly lit banquet tables and black decor pieces added moody infusions into the design. One of the standout moments from the day was a performance by Lenny Szweic, a jazz musician. After stumbling into a wine bar years ago and hearing him play on a whim, Sophie had always said she wanted his music involved in her wedding, and his set did not disappoint.
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