Jessica & Matthew's Milwaukee wedding

At first glance, Jessica and Matthew’s cold-weather wedding was a traditional and romantic affair. But up close, guests realized the classic navy blue color scheme contained an entertaining twist.“Matt is a huge Yankees baseball fan, and it was fun to integrate the navy and white pinstripes subtly into our décor,” says Jessica, who’s accompanied him to many Yankees games during their travels.

The Milwaukee couple chose details that were very personal for the bride, too, most notably the reception locale. Members of her family belong to the University Club of Milwaukee, and they’ve shared many happy memories there. “The view of Lake Michigan is also truly amazing from the U-Club windows,” she says.

With the help of a handmade memento-bedecked card box, glowing candles, navy uplighting and lush floral arrangements, there was plenty to admire indoors, too. At dinner, family and friends also discovered that each table was named for a famous Yankee, and was decorated with a photo of Jessica and Matthew at a game. The revelry continued long into the night, thanks to a dance band and a baseball-themed late-night snack: Chicago-style hot dogs and Cracker Jack—“a huge hit with our guests!” says Jessica.

Looking back on the day, Matthew and Jessica say they have much to smile about: a touching ceremony and an evening of fun with everyone who holds a special place in their hearts. “We were both really excited the entire day and just had a good time!”

Locations: Fox Point, Milwaukee
Date: November 10, 2012
Photographer: Emily Johnson Photography

Church: North Shore Congregational Church; Officiant: Rev. Sue LeFeber; Reception site: University Club of Milwaukee; Band: North Coast Orchestra; Gown: Augusta Jones from Zita Bridal; Bride’s shoes: Vince Camuto; Bride’s hair: Freya; Bride’s makeup: Blush Beauty Boutique; Bridesmaid dresses: Alfred Sung from Miss Ruby Boutique; Bridesmaid shoes: Enzo Angiolini; Suits: Jos. A. Bank; Ties: Michael Kors; Rings: Tiffany & Co.; Bride’s other jewelry and accessories: Zita Bridal, Etsy.com and the bride’s mother; Florist: Belle Fiori; Baker: Brookfield Wedding Cakes; Stationer: Robin’s Paperie

Ellie Martin Cliffe (104 Posts)

By the end of high school, Ellie Martin Cliffe was completely enamored of journalism, so she chose the most logical college major possible: anthropology. Disappointed by the minimal emphasis on writing and editing, she changed tracks and earned a comm degree from Carroll College. Ellie has since tackled many facets of the field including books, magazines and the Web at places like The Knot and Reader's Digest. She now works full time in book publishing, and is thrilled to get her wedding fix with WedInMilwaukee.com. When she isn’t wielding her (red) pen, Ellie can be found in the garden, at any concert that showcases a fiddle, playing pub trivia or in the kitchen. She and her husband live in Riverwest with their hedgehog, Guinness, and grapefruit tree, Sprout.