It’s not every day that tourists in Milwaukee see a bunch of guys walking down the street in kilts, so when Adrian and his entourage did just that, people sure took notice. The attire was apropos: Adrian and Alyssa’s wedding was a nod to Scotland and Ireland. “Adrian is Scottish,” says the bride. “He also lived there as a child for a few years. I’m Irish.”

None of their hundred guests had to guess what type of look this Milwaukee couple was after. The day was filled with Scottish and Irish influence: Celtic knots on their desserts, bells of Ireland and thistle blooms (the Scottish national symbol) in the flower arrangements, tables named for Celtic cities, a honeymoon to Scotland… Perhaps the most obvious was the men’s attire, from their ghillie brogues (shoes) to their Prince Charlie jackets. To coordinate with Adrian, Alyssa wore a tartan sash over her gown during the outdoor ceremony, one of her favorite parts of the day, which was performed by her dad, a Court Commissioner. “My dad walking me down the aisle in a kilt and then performing the ceremony was pretty awesome,” she says.

Introduced in law school, Alyssa and Adrian share a love of nature, so it’s not surprising that when they started their venue search, they fell for Coast’s indoor-outdoor space. Plus, because they wanted a smaller group of guests, “we did not want a large hall to drown out our wedding,” explains the bride. “We loved that Coast had its own feeling and character.” And they’re so glad they chose it. “Everyone still raves about the food,” says Alyssa.

The newlyweds themselves have nothing but raves for their wedding day from beginning to end. “If anything went wrong, I didn’t know about it,” the bride says. She and Adrian even took dance lessons to make sure they pulled off their first dance. “It was wonderful,” Alyssa says. The groom adds, “It was the best day ever.” Can’t top that!

Location: Milwaukee
Date: June 22, 2012
Photographs: TJ Uttke Photography

Venue and catering: Coast—A Zilli Restaurant; Officiant: Geoff Dowse, the bride’s father; Bagpiper: Steve Curran; DJ: DJ’s on the Mix; Gown and bridesmaid dresses: David’s Bridal; Bride’s shoes: DSW; Bridesmaid shoes: Charming Charlie; Bride’s hair and makeup: Gemini Salon & Spa; Kilts and jackets: Kilt Rental USA; Bride’s rings: Herbert’s Jewelers; Groom’s ring: Fadó; Florist: Petals Floral Design; Baker: Aggie’s Cakes; Favors: Shamrock cookies baked by Sue Dowse, the bride’s mother