The day she and Michael fell for each other, Alison says, “the stars aligned.” The two had met several times before, but one day, they just clicked. “We went to La Merenda on our first real date around Valentine’s Day,” she remembers. “One year later, we visited again when Michael proposed!”

As the Wauwatosa couple planned their springtime celebration, a lighthearted and elegant feel emerged—among the chic attire, lush blooms and embellished decor, lots of fun, personal elements shone. “I had an idea to create a ‘family cookie table,’ and asked the bakers from our families to make some of our favorites,” says Alison, who worked with the florist to create a heartwarming display honoring each contributor.

The people in their lives honored Alison and Michael, too. “Local artist and Michael’s best friend, Jayk Burczyk, wrote and sang our first dance,” recalls the bride, who enjoyed spending the morning getting ready with her friends, sister and mom. “No divas or bridezillas in my group…lots of laughs, silly stories and mimosas!”

“Michael and I kept saying, ‘We want our guests to have a great time!’ and they sure did!” the bride says. “From our Mass at Old St. Mary to the Love Monkeys’ second encore, everything flowed perfectly. The feeling of having all of your family and best friends in one room is incredibly powerful.”

Location: Milwaukee
Date: May 5, 2012
Photographs: Jessica Kaminski Photographer

Church: Old Saint Mary Parish; Officiant: Fr. Tim Kitzke; Ceremony musicians: Casey Unger, Joseph Wittmann; Reception: Harbor Lights Room; Caterer: Zilli Hospitality Group; Cocktail hour entertainment: Pangaea; First dance musician: Jayk Burczyk; Reception entertainment: Love Monkeys; Gown: Lazaro from Gigi of Mequon; Bride’s shoes: Macy’s; Bride’s hair: Jasna Vasilic at Erik of Norway Downtown; Bride’s makeup: Kelly Grandaw at Paulina Esthetics Boutique; Bridesmaid and mother of the bride dresses: Gigi of Mequon; Bridesmaid shoes: Nina; Bridesmaid accessories: Banana Republic, Macy’s; Tuxedos: Harleys; Flower girl dress: Pink Princess; Flower girl accessories: Gap Kids; Rings: Rohr Jewelers; Florist: Impressions by Esther Fleming, (414) 453-3323; Cupcakes: Milwaukee Cupcake Company; Stationer: Leah Altman Bublitz; Favors: Donation to Catholic East High School; Transportation: Badger Coaches