This Milwaukee courthouse elopement was such a sweet goodbye to summer.

Phaedra got ready at an incredible, industrial AirBnB in Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward. It’s the arts and fashion district in the city, with restaurants, galleries, the Public Market, and a river walk. All in a “warehouse setting.” 

I’m into it.

High windows, white brick, lots of light: yes please, city elopements!

Liz, Phaedra’s best friend, was there with us. Has there ever been a more helpful maid of honour?! No. No there hasn’t. She drove us where we needed to be, carried what needed to be carried, and did everything with a smile and a laugh. Thank you, Liz!!

What I really loved was that Phaedra and Matt planned out an intentional day that went beyond “a few hours at the courthouse.” 

They shared a first look at the Villa Terrace Art Museum. I had never seen this place before, but I am now fully in love with it. Big gardens, stone staircases, plant arches, koi fish… And we had the place entirely to ourselves! 

From there, we headed to the courthouse, slowed down briefly by one of the movable bridges. (Don’t worry; still made it.) Liz dropped us off outside, we went through security, and Matt and Phaedra picked up their license. Upstairs, she did a sweet first look with her mum, and then a bailiff led us all into a quiet room for the ceremony. 

And Milwaukee courthouse elopement? Still romantic as hell. I got a bit teary myself as these two said their vows. 

Afterward, we took family photos outside on the steps of the courthouse, then headed to the lake for more portraits. Phaedra and Matt have matching tattoos on their forearms depicting the Milwaukee skyline, and we were in the perfect spot to see it all laid out in front of us. Later, dinner was held at a restaurant on the lakefront, which is something I freaking loved about this day: the entire group, sitting together at one table. 

Thank you, Phaedra and Matt, and your families, for including me in your wedding day, for welcoming me in, for the hugs and chats and trust. 

And another very big thank you to Miss Lauryn Marie, who did an incredible job with Phaedra’s hair and makeup!