While they both attended UW-Madison, and many of the same science classes, Chelsea and Aaron first met through mutual friends much later in their careers. The couple now jokes, “we wouldn’t have been ready for each other” prior to meeting, proving timing truly is everything.

Aaron continued his good-timing tradition when he seized the perfect weekend for the proposal: a time when all of Chelsea’s family and friends would be home. While taking a break from a 5-hour car drive to Chelsea’s hometown in Menomonie, the couple walked along the Red Cedar State Trail after grabbing coffee at Chelsea’s favorite local cafe. It was then and there that Aaron got down on one knee and popped the question, just before Chelsea’s shock-filled “YES.” The entire weekend then turned into a huge engagement celebration with the ones they love the most.

Both fans of an urban industrial feel, the couple chose the Historic 3rd Ward for engagement photos. Despite the cold and rain, their photographer, Pat, ensured them pictures are better when the sun isn’t shining anyway. With a wedding set for September 2013 at Boerner Botanical Gardens, they already have a slew of local vendors ready to make their big day special, including Bartolotta catering, wedding cake from The Cake Lady, flowers by Impressions by Eshter, rings from A Trio Jewelry, music & lighting by Sound by Design, wedding dress from Amelishan Bridal and invites from JInvites.

Chelsea jokes, “When planning a wedding, start early and have fun. Wedding planning can be a lot of work; elope if you can!”

Ring photography by A Trio Jewelry
All other photographs by Pat Manning Photography

Danielle Nicole Barr (142 Posts)

Danielle has had the privilege of working on a variety of publications from magazines to books, and topics from food & travel to home & garden (to weddings!). Currently she works on the digital side of best-selling beading and jewelry magazines. Danielle enjoys everything Milwaukee has to offer and lives near Miller Park with her husband, Alex, and adorable rescue-pup, Hutson.