La Dolce Vita: Effortless Elegance and Garden Whimsy in Alfresco Affair at Stout's Island Lodge

Nestled in the heart of Red Cedar Lake lies an enchanted retreat where rustic charm blends with the nostalgia of northern lake life. With a rich history dating back to 1903, Stout’s Island Lodge was inspired by the iconic Great Camps of the Adirondack Mountains, known for their grand lakeside architecture. Today, this quintessential Midwestern lodge has become a popular destination for lovebirds to tie the knot.

Drawing inspiration from the tranquil surroundings, historic beauty and natural elements, Ellie Reimer of Olive Branch Events Co., in collaboration with Madison Dahlquist Photography, sought to infuse the spirit of an Italian summer into the North Woods. A joyful color palette of tangerine, buttery yellow, soft pink and lavender set an inviting tone for the alfresco affair. From a romantic picnic by the stream to a private canoe vow exchange on glistening waters, each moment was steeped in magic. The intimate ceremony on the dock, surrounded by pastel blooms, felt like a dream come to life. A candlelit tablescape with rattan accents and delicate flowers captured a flawless balance of effortless elegance and garden whimsy. As a final flourish and an ode to Italia, The Bitsy Bar’s blue “Vesbar” offered Aperol and Limoncello spritzes as a refreshing ending to this dreamy summer day.