Kelly & Matt

Real Weddings

Kelly & Matt

July 18, 2009 at a family property near La Crosse

By:

Corrin Koepp

photography by:

Kelly Christopherson and Matt Wagoner’s wedding felt like déjà vu for some of the bride’s family: Kelly’s parents were married 31 years ago at the same historic church in quaint St. Joseph’s Ridge, near La Crosse. As a tribute, Matt created ceremony programs that echoed the horse-drawn carriage that picked up Kelly’s parents from the church on their wedding day. The couple kept the family ties intact with a reception steps away on the bride’s countryside family property. The rural space was dotted with Mason-jar candle-holders suspended from trees with copper wire, as well as splashes of pink, from the cupcakes to the custom candy buffet. The color is an important symbol for the couple, as their yellow Labrador, Jake, wore Kelly’s engagement ring on a pink ribbon around his neck the day Matt proposed. Stunning blush-hued peonies popped in Kelly’s bridal bouquet, and set off her Spanish crocheted lace, raw silk, and point d’esprit tulle gown accented with her grandmother’s antique brooch. Even though the couple exchanged vows on Wisconsin’s coldest July day in 70 years, the wedding overflowed with warmth and the reception lasted 12 hours, with bridesmaids donning winter jackets and Ugg boots.

Wedding gown: La Sposa from A Joyful Occasion, Naperville, Ill. | Bridesmaid gowns: Bill Levkoff from Savvy Bride | Bridal bouquet and boutonnieres: Monet Flowers and Gifts | Bridesmaid bouquets, table flowers: Bride’s aunt, Katie Christopherson | Table runners: Groom’s mother, Joanne Wagoner | Bride’s hair: Clare Christopherson, Bride’s sister | Reception décor: Bride’s and groom’s families | Catering: Culinary Visions | Cupcakes: St. Francis Bakery