The Prevailing Winds Lodge in Madison, Wisconsin created a serene backdrop to the beautiful Bongiorno Wedding. The weather and entire day were a dream. Ali and TJ have been together for ten years and the joy was palpable at their wedding. The Navy, blush, and green color palate was perfect for the stunning venue. Enjoy a glimpse into Ali and TJ’s picture perfect wedding day.
Ali was exquisite in her lace Maggie Sottero gown accented with her ivory and cream bouquet from Christopher Mark Fine Flowers and Gifts.
Ali has a contagious smile… She was full of JOY marrying her high school sweetheart!
Getting into her gown Ali was surrounded by her amazing bridesmaids…. full of laughter, music, and fun!
The ring on the right belonged to Ali’s beloved grandmother, such a special way to carry her memory throughout this important day.
TJ was handsome even embracing the nerves before seeing his stunning bride. He was dapper in his H&M suit and tie and his Claddagh wedding band.
GQ ad worthy!
This first look was a surprise. The couple was so anxious to see each other! That coupled with a very tight timeline, large families, and a large bridal party allowed for one of the sweetest first looks! Ali and TJ had 19 adult attendants and 5 children in their bridal party. Each and every person holds an important role in the bride and grooms lives and hearts so they wanted to include them in the first look. The portraits and memories acquired due to this first look were priceless!
Ali, you are gorgeous!
These groomsmen were a blast, rocked photos, and were a wonderful support team for their groom!
The shades of blush and different styles of bridesmaid dresses from LuLu’s and Vow to be Chic were gorgeous.
Our biggest bridal party to date and they were spectacular during portraits! Each attendant was family or like family to not only the bride and groom but each other. You are all remarkable people!
The five flower girls in the delicate lace and chiffon dresses were the sweetest. There are two sets of siblings and they were even sweet to each other!
The laughter never stopped with this spectacular group of ladies!
Ali with her momma and the little ladies.
After a morning of smiles it was time to ascend to the impressive ceremony location. The views were inspiring and an ideal spot for a wedding ceremony.
Tj’s brother Dominic performed the ceremony as the ultimate officiant. He was also joined by Ali’s dad which created a ceremony perfect for this dynamic couple. Complete with personal stories, background, and The Office references the ceremony was the perfect mix of love, humor, and tears.
Ali and TJ recited traditional vows but the moment that captured their audience was the handwritten personal vows to each other.
Just when you thought the vows could not get sweeter a butterfly flew past Ali when she was speaking about her grandmother. This brought even more smiles and tears to the vows.
Dominic brought more humor when he stepped into the traditional Best Man’s location to hand himself the rings.
Then THE KISS… the dip was dazzling and set the stage for the rest of the evening.
We took just 15 minutes during Golden Hour to capture more moments of this remarkable couple and venue.
One of my favorites!
The couple on the right are Ali’s maternal grandparents, I can see Ali and TJ still in love just as they are!
Speeches from Dominic, Audrey(MOH and Ali’s sister), and Charlie (groomsman and Ali’s brother) were heartfelt and perfect.
First Dance as man and wife…. I LOVE these moments!
Keeping with the importance of family shown throughout the day Ali danced with three men very important to her while TJ shared special moments with his mom.
Then the party started with Sound by Design and the dance floor was full all night!
S’mores and bouquet toss love sweetened the reception.
Ali and TJ thank you for a memorable and flawless day. We can not express our delight in capturing this start to your forever.
Some of the wonderful vendors that helped create this day include…
Ceremony/Reception Venue- Prevailing Winds Lodge (Ceremony and Reception) http://www.prevailingwindslodge.com
Hair/Make Up- Organic Beauty Salon and Spa http://www.organicbeautymadison.com
Bridal Gown- Maggie Sottero, Crystal Bride in Geneva Illinois 207 W. State Street. http://www.crystalbride.com
Bridesmaids dresses-Lulu’s and Vow To Be Chic http://lulus.com and http://vowtobechic.com
Groomsmen suits- H&M. http://www.hm.com/us
Florist- Christopher Mark Fine Flowers and Gifts, Brookfield IL https://www.facebook.com/ChristopherMarkFlowers
DJ- Sound By Design http://www.soundbydesign.org
Catering- Upstairs Downstairs Catering www.updowncatering.com
Greatest Story Photography 